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Draft:Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience

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The Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience is a contemporary ensemble that fuses traditional big band sounds with modern pop influences.[1] Founded by Emmy Award-winning vocalist[2]and Minnesota Music Hall of Fame inductee[3] Shaun Johnson, the octet offers a modern take on the big band genre, blending classic swing with innovative arrangements.[4]

Background

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Shaun Johnson, originally from Saint Joseph, Iowa, gained prominence as the lead singer of the a cappella group Tonic Sol-fa.[5] With Tonic Sol-fa, he achieved significant success, selling nearly two million albums independently and being featured in publications like Newsweek,[6][7]and on the Today Show.[8] In 2014, Johnson sought to explore his passion for big band music, leading to the creation of the Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience.[9]

Formation and Musical Style

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The ensemble includes Midwestern instrumentalists and arrangers, including musicians who have toured with notable artists such as Keb Mo and New Kids on the Block.[10] Their sound is characterized by a blend of big band traditions with contemporary pop elements, drawing inspiration from legends like Frank Sinatra while incorporating modern influences akin to Michael Bublé.[11]

Releases and Achievements

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The group's debut album, Capitol, was released in 2019 and debuted at number five on the Billboard Jazz Chart.[12] Their follow-up album, Made for Her (released in 2021),[13] showcased original compositions dedicated to influential women in Johnson's life.[14] The Big Band Experience's albums have been highlighted nationally for their original compositions, indie marketing and dynamic voice.[15][16][17][18][19][20]

Media Features

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In 2024, the Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience's rendition of "Spiderman" was featured in Episode 3 of HBO's Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the New York Giants, highlighting the ensemble's unique blend of classic and contemporary styles.[21] As well, the Big Band Experience may be seen across the U.S. on their first PBS Holiday Special, "The Spirit of the Season."[22]

Philanthropy

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Beyond their musical endeavors, the Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience is committed to philanthropy.[23] They have collaborated with various charities, including children's hospitals, Wishes & More, and Susan G. Komen, among others.[24][16][25] Their tours often incorporate fundraising efforts, reflecting their dedication to giving back to the community.[26][27][28][29]

References

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  1. ^ Magazine, Aesthetic (July 9, 2021). "Search Results for "shaun johnson"".
  2. ^ "Complete list of regional Emmy winners". www.startribune.com. September 26, 2010.
  3. ^ "Minnesota Music Hall of Fame". mnmusichalloffame.org.
  4. ^ "Meet Shaun Johnson". canvasrebel.com.
  5. ^ "Tonic Sol-fa". shaunjohnsonmusic.com.
  6. ^ Member, Newsweek Staff Newsweek Is A. Trust Project (June 19, 2005). "BANDS: AN IDEA AS FRESH AS MOM'S TUPPERWARE". Newsweek.
  7. ^ https://www.michellemassman.com/tsfmedia
  8. ^ Cafe, The Sound (October 22, 2021). "The Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience Release New Evolution Of Big Band Music On 'Made For Her'". The Sound Cafe.
  9. ^ Miller, Bruce (December 6, 2013). "Shaun Johnson branches out from Tonic Sol-fa". Sioux City Journal.
  10. ^ "David Stanoch - Paiste". www.paiste.com.
  11. ^ Franklin, Dave (September 21, 2021). "Made For Her - Shaun Johnson and the Big Band Experience (reviewed by Dave Franklin)". Dancing About Architecture.
  12. ^ "Shaun Johnson & The Big Band Experience | Biography, Music & News". Billboard.
  13. ^ "Made for Her by Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience on Apple Music". September 17, 2021 – via music.apple.com.
  14. ^ "Shaun Johnson + Big Band Experience on the Big Band Sound". Jejune Magazine. March 4, 2025.
  15. ^ "Shaun Johnson + Big Band Experience - Made For Her". Pitch Perfect.
  16. ^ a b "Winners". Telly Awards.
  17. ^ "Shaun Johnson + The Big Band Experience Unleashes "This Old Man"". July 15, 2021.
  18. ^ Asylum, Warlock (September 25, 2021). "Made for Her by Shaun Johnson + The Big Band Experience". Warlock Asylum International News.
  19. ^ "Shaun Johnson + the Big Band Experience Release Magical Album 'Made For Her'". September 22, 2021.
  20. ^ "Local Music Tap: 'Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience' Album Review - CBS Minnesota". www.cbsnews.com. December 9, 2013.
  21. ^ "Giants Now: Highlights from 'Hard Knocks' Episode 3". www.giants.com.
  22. ^ "Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience - The Spirit Of The Season". Twin Cities PBS. October 18, 2016.
  23. ^ Publisher, Alana (October 29, 2021). "605 Profile | Shaun Johnson | 605 Magazine".
  24. ^ "Sharing the Table Gala | Shaun Johnson & The Big Band Experience ⋆ Whats going on Sioux Falls".
  25. ^ "Fundraiser Concert: Shaun Johnson + The Big Band Experience". Eventbrite.
  26. ^ Media, For Daily Tribune. "Big Band sound coming to Wautoma". Daily Tribune.
  27. ^ "Patriot News MN". patriotnewsmn.com.
  28. ^ Thisweek, Sun (December 12, 2012). "Shaun Johnson/Big Band Experience raises money for charity". hometownsource.com.
  29. ^ "Shaun Johnson". November 30, 2022.