Johnny Smith Opens Summer Concert Series

Well known local guitar player and, Johnny Smith, kicks off the Spenger Garden Music Series at the Benicia Historical Museum with his special brand of sophisticated blues, jazz and rock fusion.  The opening concert featuring The Johnny Smith Band is the third year for the series held in the museum’s scenic garden.

Smith’s sophisticated guitar driven blues is melded with upbeat rock rhythms and delivered with passion and gritty vocals.  The artist’s three released CD’s are remarkable for their range – ranging from laid back swing jazz to lovelorn blues with reggae rock thrown in.

His CD’s include “Gentleman X” (2009), “San Francisco Bay Jazz” (2006) and “Just a Man” 2002. The hit “Love Is like a Rock” became #1 on radio request lines, and the song “Fortune Teller” received honorable mention in the Napa Valley Music Festival Song Writers Competition.

Johnny has won best performer 3 of 3 times at the Northern California Songwriters Association competition, and is a regular on live television and radio broadcasts.

Through all of his successes, Smith has never lost touch with his roots and still performs on the original Martin D-35 that he’s been playing since age 12.

Music is a family affair as Johnny’s aunt, Bonnie Bramlett, co-wrote and performs, along with Johnny’s cousin, Bekka Bramlett, on “Never even Thought About It,” on the 2009 album “Gentleman X.”  With rocky legend Bonnie as his aunt, it’s no surprise that Johnny delights musical audiences as his sultry, soulful voice weaves through songs reminiscent of sophisticated blues melded with upbeat rock tempos.

Tickets can be purchased online with no service fees at www.beniciahistoricalmuseum.org, at Bookshop Benicia, at the museum gift shop or by phone at 707.745.5435.