Marc Johnson (jazz musician)

Marc Johnson (born October 28, 1953, Omaha, Nebraska) is an American jazz double bassist and composer. He is known for his melodic playing style, strong time feel, and improvisational skills.

Career:

Johnson began his professional career in the mid-1970s, gaining recognition playing with pianists Bill Evans and Stan Getz. His association with Bill Evans, especially in the final years of Evan's life, significantly shaped Johnson's musical trajectory. He appears on several of Evans' final recordings, including Affinity and We Will Meet Again.

Following Evan's death in 1980, Johnson established himself as a leader and sideman, collaborating with a diverse range of jazz artists. He has recorded extensively under his own name, often featuring his compositions. His albums frequently showcase his distinctive approach to the bass and his ability to create rich, atmospheric soundscapes.

Johnson has worked with artists such as Michael Brecker, John Abercrombie, Enrico Pieranunzi, Eliane Elias (his wife), and many others. He has also been a member of various cooperative ensembles, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to collaborative music-making.

Style and Influence:

Johnson's playing is characterized by its lyrical quality, rhythmic precision, and sophisticated harmonic understanding. He is known for his ability to walk bass lines with elegance and power, as well as for his expressive arco (bowed) playing. He is considered an influential figure in modern jazz bass playing.

Discography (Selected):

• Bass Desires (ECM, 1986)
• Second Sight (ECM, 1987)
• Right Brain Patrol (JMT, 1992)
• The Sound of Summer Running (Verve, 1998) with Pat Metheny and Bill Frisell
• Shades of Jade (ECM, 2005)
• Swept Away (ECM, 2012) with Eliane Elias

Awards and Recognition:

Johnson has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, recognizing his contributions to jazz music. He continues to perform and record actively.