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| Johnny Bristol |
| Born: 2-3-1939 Died: 3-21-2004 of natural causes at the age of 65. |
| Johnny was born in Morganton, North Carolina in 1939. He began his career in 1960 as part of the duo of Johnny And Jackie.
Johnny met Jackie Beavers during a period of National Service in the U.S. Air Force.
The duo recorded the first version of the tune "Someday We'll Be Together" for Gwen Gordy and Harvey Fuqua's Tri-Phi Imprint.
The Supreme's later reached the Billboard Top 40 charts, with the song in 1969, with Johnny pitching in on background vocals.
Johnny stayed with Motown for the duration of the Sixties, partnering with Harvey Fuqua, writing and producing for the likes of: Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, Smokey Robinson, Michael Jackson, Martha Reeves, Jimmy Ruffin, The Four Tops, The Spinners, the late Edwin Starr, David Ruffin and Junior Walker. He co-wrote "How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You" and "What Does It Take To Win Your Love". In 1973 Johnny left Motown for a recording contract with Columbia Records. Although several tracks were recorded the label was dissatisfied with the results and chose not to release them. So he exited the label and quickly signed with MGM Records in 1974. His first release shot up the charts and became his most recognized hit as an artist. "Hang On In There Baby" has been covered by countless artists including a disco version by Bette Midler. Johnny had two more hits for MGM, "You And I" and "Leave My World" in 1974 and 1975, respectively. His song "Love Me For A Reason" was a hit, but not for him, the chart success went to fellow MGM labelmates The Osmonds. Another label move in 1976 found Johnny at Atlantic Records during disco's infancy. Naturally Johnny released a 12" single of "Do It To My Mind." The song, from "Bristol's Cream," was a club hit and gave his career a much needed boost. Personal problems delayed the release of any new material until 1979's "Strangers." The title track became an underground classic and was covered by Tavares as "Strangers In Dark Corners." Johnny re-recorded "Hang On In There Baby" with the group Alton McClain and Destiny for Polydor in 1980. The same year, Johnny had a top 40 hit with Amii Stewart, a duet of "My Guy, My Girl." As well as another club classic with his own "Love No Longer Has A Hold On Me." An album, "Free To Be Me" followed, both on the Handshake label. The remainder of the 1980's found Johnny doing the occasional "oldies show" and putting in time writing new material. Ian Levine started the Motorcity label to record (and document) the Detroit talent he so admired from his childhood. Johnny released a version of the Barrett Strong song "Man Up In The Sky" for Ian that brought Johnny to a whole new audience in the early 1990's. His last release was in Japan. A quality album entitled "Life And Love." Scandal rocked the singer last year, when in July 2003 the singer was arrested. Johnny was charged with three counts of criminal sexual conduct. A 26-year-old waitress told police she was invited back to Bristol's Brighton house to look at his recording studio. She said when she tried to leave, he locked the door and fondled her. The waitress admitted she took $700 before she left. Johnny claimed he didn't touch her and his attorney said he thought Johnny was set up. The case was eventually cleared up but it left a blemish on Johnny's name in his Michigan hometown. On March 21, 2004 Michigan State Police in Brighton stated Johnny suffered an apparent seizure at his Brighton Township home and was pronounced dead at St. Joseph Mercy Livingston Hospital in Howell, Michigan from natural causes. Despite his personal demons Johnny was a powerhouse of talent. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, for we too shall miss the man. |
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