Interview with Songwriter, Sid “Uncle Jamz” Johnson

Songwriter/producer, Sid Johnson recounts pivotal career moments pushing ’70s and ’80s Midwest R&B.

By Mildred C. Fallen

Photo courtesy: Sid Johnson

M.E.C.A.P Founder, songwriter and producer, Sid “Uncle Jamz” Johnson.

Grammy-winning songwriter, artist manager and producer Sid “UncleJamz” Johnson lent his talent to crafting Billboard charting singles for Manchild, The Boys, Shalamar, The Mac Band, Dynasty, Renaizzance, Next, Field Mob, Babyface, Midnight Star, Ron Banks of The Dramatics, Usher and Monica, and The Whispers, and the soundtrack to the motion picture, Soul Food. Johnson’s works have appeared on seven RIAA gold albums, five platinum albums and four multi-platinum albums.

The Indianapolis native now heads M.E.C.A.P., an entertainment company designated for helping independent artists with songwriting, record production, entertainment consultation and management consultation.  Here, he recalls the burgeoning Tri-state scene of Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky in the ’70s and ’80s, co-authoring a big hit for Midnight Star, how he first met and worked with Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds,  as well as insider knowledge of the dog-eat-dog world of music publishing.

Ohio Funk Podcast: Pt. 1

Check out a select bunch of early to mid-70s underground joints from the nation’s funk capital, Ohio, courtesy of Deeper Than Atlantis: Diggin’ In Da Crates’ radio show:

The Vinyl Room spotlight is on: DJ Pillo

Best noted for his endless house party style mixings of hip-hop, soul, funk, punk, disco, reggae, house, breaks & rock; DJ Pillo has graced international venues and events with the gift of music both past and present. With more than twenty years of DJing experience, DJ Pillo has kept dance floors packed with his raw, consistent & arguably unmatched talent. With the use of two turntables, mixers and an endless supply of vinyl, this highly sought after DJ not only provides events with great music, but he also comes equipped with professionalism beyond your expectations.*

(*excerpt from DJ Pillo’s bio).

Check out Pillo’s podcast on PodOmatic.com

 

The Vinyl Room: Old School Hip Hop

 

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In honor of DJ Kool Herc, the godfather of Hip-Hop, we at the Vinyl Room are givin’ a little something back…courtesy of Mista Rare Groove…click link below to download and enjoy.

The Vinyl Room: Old School Hip Hop