Jerry Johnstone undeniably is one of the most well rounded musicians in this time, which the world has yet to see. Born and raised in Dayton, Ohio, Jerry began playing lead guitar and singing at the age of seven.
His first performances in front of audiences began at Resurrection Church under the musical direction of Jerry’s father. Jerry then began to sharpen his gift with guitar lessons at Dayton Band, one of the more popular music shops in the area.
At the age of 13, Jerry auditioned for the Chaminade-Julienne High School Jazz Band, and was accepted and welcomed as a full fledge member even before becoming a student. He later Joined the Sinclair College Jazz Band, which provided him the honor and experience to play with such artist as: Woody Herman, Maynard Ferguson, Bill Watrous, and Buddy Rich. Because of Jerry’s impressive natural ability to lead and play, he received many soloist awards at Ohio State, Notre Dame, and Ohio University.
After graduating from high school (1979), Jerry immediately joined Casablanca recording artists, Platypus. The group opened for such acts as: Phylis Hyman, Switch, The Bar-Kays, The Ohio Players, Zapp and Roger, Slave, and The Sugar Hill Gang. Jerry continued to tour with Platypus over the next two years. Jerry then teamed up with a member of Platypus and formed Jakky Boy and the Bad Bunch, which later resulted in one release on the Salsoul label and another on the Atlantic label.
Jerry went on to travel around the world to places such as Los Angeles, CA. It was here that Jerry’s writing abilities were appreciated when he wrote a song entitled "One Down, Two Down" which appeared in "The Garbage Pail Kid’s" movie and was released on Curb records. While in LA, Jerry also did an extensive amount of studio work including, arranging and performing two songs for the Ann Margaret dancer’s (Raw Satin). Not just received in the U.S.A., Jerry traveled over to Toyko, Japan where he was received with open arms. Coming back to American soil, Jerry settled in Florida performing on extensive cruises with Disney Cruise Lines. After all the traveling, Jerry made the choice to give his life to Christ in 1992.
In 1996, Jerry relocated to NJ, where he was a faithful member and musician under the leadership of the late Bishop L. Wyatt (The Church of the Living God Pentecostal Tabernacle, Plainfield, NJ). It was there he met and two years later (May, 1998), married the love of his life, Christal Johnstone. Jerry is the proud father of 3 daughters. Jerry has had opportunities, to participate in gospel events, including "Perception 2000" in Trenton, NJ. For which his role as lead guitarist, (backed such renowned preachers as: Bishop Clarence McClendon, Bishop Jackie McCollough, and Pastor Sheryl Brady), captivated all who listened. During this period, Jerry served as an Ordained Minister, under the leadership of Apostle Ivory Jenkins (The Fountain of Praise Deliverance Tabernacle of Trenton, NJ).
Jerry has currently had the pleasure of touring with Dr. Ron Kenoly in such countries as Guatemala, Chile, England, and Iceland. Jerry believes his music is not just "music" but a testimony that will encourage people to know that there’s always a "light" even in darkness. His anointed music and passion for ministry will not be stopped now Jerry is ready to make his mark as one of the most received Christian artists in America and worldwide. Get Ready!!
Read more...