Paul Johnson poured excellence into his craft, influencing globally renowned producers, DJs, artists, and optimists for over four decades.
Official.
“House music, from my mind, to my heart, thru my hands. The message is universal.”
When your name precedes all others on Daft Punk’s timeless ode, Teachers, there’s no denying your place in music history.
A Chicago south-sider through-and-through, Paul Johnson, aka, PJ, was a true Godfather Of House.
Paul Johnson’s influence on dance music is profound. As a pioneer of the Chicago house sound, he played a crucial role in shaping the development of countless sub-genres. Alongside DJ Funk, DJ Deeon, Slugo and Parris Mitchell, PJ defined the ghetto house genre, as a stalwart of the legendary Dance Mania label. His tracks, throughout time, are characterized by their infectious vocals, danceable grooves, catchy hooks, and soulful elements—all of which have inspired countless producers and DJs.
Johnson’s contributions extend beyond his music. A true fitness DJ with soul, his selections blended slamming drums and promiscuous vocals with streaks of gospel, disco, and house sentimentalities. He toured extensively, playing at clubs and festivals around the world, and his influence can still be felt in the house music community today.
With more than 500 releases to his name on dozens of renowned domestic and international labels, and with a career spanning more than 30 years, Johnson’s bombastic productions were consistently plucked from Chicago’s underground to grace sound systems everywhere.
Equally famed for his dexterity and frenetic mixing style behind the decks, Johnson’s sets teemed with so much energy it was no surprise to see the clubs he played beaded with sweat.
A most respected musician, with an undeniably melodic voice and charismatic personality, PJ—and his music—will forever remain in the bedrock of house music. Without his sound, life on the dancefloor just wouldn’t be the same.
PAUL JOHNSON
IS AMAZING
Estate Administration
At the request of PJ’s family, the Estate of Paul Johnson is being independently administered in Chicago. Our legal oversight is in the capable hands of Reed Smith, LLP, with generous advisory support from Paul’s family and chosen family in a global but deeply rooted network.
Our Approach
The Estate team takes this responsibility humbly, with an unwavering focus on preserving PJ’s extraordinary musical legacy. As custodians of Paul’s catalog, we are fiercely committed to ensuring his works are complete, properly attributed, and positioned for generational wealth creation.
To achieve this, we’ve welcomed collaboration from those who were part of Paul’s journey—past partners, labels, promoters, friends, and family. As we plant the seeds of his legacy, we aim to create opportunities for fans and loved ones to share their insights and stories about PJ’s contributions to the now $14 billion global dance music industry.
Friends and family help us deepen the documentation of Paul’s musical works, reminding us why he was so loved and respected.
Intellectual Property & Collaboration
Anyone who engages with or benefits from Paul Johnson's intellectual property posthumously must do so with the utmost respect and legal adherence. His music was his gift to the world, and we ask that those who use it now honor the spirit in which it was created.
We are committed to reclaiming any previously uncontrolled musical assets, ensuring they are treated with the respect and care they deserve. We acknowledge the possibility of untapped opportunities, uncredited contributions, or unreleased material that are essential pieces of Paul’s musical tapestry. Actively pursuing these assets ensures a fair distribution of rights associated with PJ’s work.
Collaboration and transparency are essential to preserving Paul’s legacy. We invite all individuals or entities involved in his music to connect with us. Together, we can ensure that PJ’s unparalleled contributions to music endure for generations to come.
A Little Suntin’ Suntin’
Release something recently & want to send us a note? Great! Please do so here. Because who likes paying lawyers, really? No one we know. Let’s make sure Paul’s legacy is treated with the respect it duly deserves.
Contact Us
Estate matters are typically private, but we welcome inquiries regarding our work or contributions to PJ’s legacy. Please reach out if you would like to connect.
For general inquiries, sync placement opportunities, or sample requests, please email us: estate@getgetdown.org