Brooklyn based Boston born RnB/Pop artist and producer Johnny (Johnny Whoriskey Jr) began his musical journey at a young age and has also worked behind the scenes in the film and TV world since 2010. And now the rising star has released his brand new music video for his latest single ‘Right Now’. The clip is directed, and sound-tracked by the multi-talented artist.
Here we speak exclusively to Johnny about his musical inspirations, dream collaborations, new single and much, much more;
Growing up who inspired your love of music?
“First things first, rest in peace Auntie Chow.” My great aunt taught me how to play the piano when I was about 5 years old and I just never stopped. I had a lot of amazing music teachers along the way between school and private lessons. I really have to touch on the fact that the music community in my school system was incredibly diverse and actually successful at the national collective level so that really helped breed a strong nature between me and all of my music friends.
When did you decide to pursue music as a career?
When I graduated from Film school, I had kind of put music away for a while. I was writing a lot but it was honestly non-existent in my life. Then when I started working in the movie world I realized how much I missed that side of my creative outlet. I went through a really tough break-up and that really became the tipping point for me.
Who are your all time musical heroes?
I’ve got too many to count. What I will say is that I’ve been a big fan of guys like Kanye [West] and Drake and Gambino since the beginning. Without artists like them I never would have been able to do the type of music that I do.
If you could collaborate with anyone who would you choose?
This is a tough one. There’s so many artists making great music right now. I’d love to collaborate and write for every single one of them. I’ve been listening to a lot of Banks lately. I think she’s really great. Also Khalid. Everything that guy touches is flames. James Blake. Justin Vernon. Sampha. Frank. Seriously too many to say here too.
What is the main inspiration behind your new single ‘Right Now’?
I’ve spent a lot of time splitting time between Boston and NYC. Most recently LA as well. This song is really about living in the present with your relationships.
Can you talk us through the premise of the video for the song?
We open up with smoke pouring out of my car only to quickly realize our picture is playing in reverse. As I back out of our scene in the side of the road, our camera plays a few tricks as our lead actress (played by Boston Actress Acei Martin) is revealed in a series of vignettes that almost describe the different stages of a relationship. All the while I do not react to her and also our camera never cuts. As we approach the end of the video, Johnny backs into a driveway to reveal that the girl was never in the car to begin with as he left her back at the house, seemingly in his rear view. The end reveals the (quite dark) reasoning for the car troubles.
Do you plan to release an album soon?
I’m planning to release an EP in November called ‘Nothing is Forever’. Be on the lookout as we continue to roll out the project!
Can fans expect to see you on tour soon?
That’s the plan!!!
What do you hope to achieve over the next ten years?
Make hit music. Create great visuals. Push boundaries. Live a great life. “Everything You Ever Dreamed.”
Make sure you follow Johnny on Twitter @listentojohnny_ to keep up to date with all his latest music and tour news!
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