Al "Carnival Time" Johnson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Al "Carnival Time" Johnson
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Johnson performing in New Orleans, 2007
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Alvin Lee Johnson |
| Born | June 20, 1939 |
| Origin | New Orleans, Louisiana, United States |
| Genres | Rhythm and blues |
| Occupation(s) | Singer |
| Instruments | Vocals, piano |
| Years active | 1954–present |
| Labels | Aladdin, Ric |
Al "Carnival Time" Johnson was born on June 20, 1939, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He is an American singer and piano player. He is most famous for his fun Mardi Gras song, "Carnival Time".
Contents
Al Johnson's Story
Growing Up and Starting Music
Al Johnson spent his early years in Houston. When he was ten, he moved back to New Orleans. His family settled in the Lower Ninth Ward. His dad bought musical instruments for the family. Al's sisters got a piano, and his brother got a trombone. Al became very interested in the piano. He quickly learned how to play basic chords.
Some of the musicians who inspired Al were Sugar Boy Crawford, Fats Domino, and Smiley Lewis. These artists helped shape his musical style.
First Songs and Big Hit
In 1956, when Al was seventeen, he recorded his first songs. These were "Ole Time Talkin'" and "I've Done Wrong." He recorded them for Aladdin Records. Later, he signed with Ric Records. He recorded many songs at Cosimo Matassa's studio in New Orleans. His song "Lena" was recorded in 1958.
His most famous song, "Carnival Time", was recorded in 1960. Joe Ruffino, who owned Ric Records, produced the song. "Carnival Time" became a huge hit. It joined other classic Mardi Gras songs. These include Professor Longhair’s "Go to the Mardi Gras" and "Big Chief", and The Hawketts' "Mardi Gras Mambo". People in New Orleans love to play and request these songs during Mardi Gras.
After recording his hit song, Al Johnson joined the military. He served and was stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas.
Challenges and Comeback
When Al returned to New Orleans in late 1964, he faced some challenges. The owner of Ric Records had passed away. Al had to work hard to get the rights to his music. Eventually, he was nicknamed "Carnival Time" because of his famous song.
Al Johnson kept performing his music. In 1999, he finally won full rights to his hit song. This was a big victory for him.
21st Century Highlights
In 2005, Al Johnson was honored as the King of the New Orleans Krewe Du Vieux. This is a special group that puts on a parade during Mardi Gras.
In 2006, he released a new Mardi Gras song called "Mardi Gras Strut." In 2007, Al Johnson was inducted into The Louisiana Music Hall of Fame. This is a great honor for musicians from Louisiana.
Also in 2007, he released an album called "Lower Ninth Ward Blues." This album shared stories about people who lost their homes. Many people, including Al, were affected by Hurricane Katrina in the New Orleans Lower Ninth Ward.
In 2008, Al Johnson performed at a special event. He was a guest artist at the Inaugural Ball for Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal. He shared the stage with Deacon John Moore and his band.
In 2012, Al Johnson was given another special title. He was named honorary "King for Life" of New Orleans' Goodchildren Social Aid & Pleasure Club. This club is known for its parades and community work.
Al Johnson also moved into a new home. It was built in the Harry Connick Jr. "Musicians' Village" in New Orleans. This village helps musicians who were affected by Hurricane Katrina.
Al Johnson's Music
- 2006 It's Carnival Time All The Time
- 2007 Lower Ninth Ward Blues
- 2013 Beyond Carnival
