Milwaukee born guitar veteran, Maurice Johnson first gained notice in 1985 shortly after forming the Oklahoma City based, “After Five” band. Considered the young lions of jazz, “After Five” gained a great deal of popularity, sharing the stage with major acts including, George Benson, George Howard, Norman Brown, Nancy Wilson, Al Green, Alex Bungon, Stanley Turrentine, Little Melton, Mary Wright, Ronny Laws, Jennifer Holiday, Freddy Jackson, Larry Coryell, Barney Kessel and many others. In 1991 the group signed with New York label, Warlock Records and released the EXPRESSIONS CD. After a nearly ten-year stint, “After Five” would ultimately disband.
As the early 90’s unfolded, Maurice found himself at the helm of a unique industry as co-founder of D’Leco Acoustic Instruments with luthier / partner James W. Dale. The two built and marketed handcrafted archtop guitars. After a chance encounter with the daughter of legendary Jazz great, Charlie Christian they designed and licensed two exclusive lines of Charlie Christian guitar models to American manufacturer, Gibson Guitars and Samick Musical Instruments in Korea.
Between 1996 and 2003 Maurice authored three nationally published music related books with Mel Bay Publishing, Mix Books and Artist Pro Press. During this time he would develop the popular windows based, Gigorama software.
Maurice continues to demonstrate a rich and promising persona as a formidable guitarist, composer and arranger.
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