I've had the pleasure of working with DJ on multiple projects spanning the last decade. Together, we produced some fantastic music in multiple genres and styles. He offers a fantastic ear and his attention to detail is second to none. He has always been prompt, professional, a quick learner, and most importantly a total bad ass on the drums. I would not hesitate to call on DJ when in need of a session drummer or percussionist, and hope to work with him for years to come.
-Randy Avenell - The Brain Machine Recording Studio
For the past year, I have had the privilege of performing some of my most rewarding shows with Dave Johnson. Dave is an absolute powerhouse! His technique is uniquely solid and powerful. He brings an energy to every performance which leaves me impressed every gig! Solid and consistent, Dave is a rock! He brings an air of confidence and strength to our band and drives us forward. Dave transfers his raw power to the crowd and gets everyone in the audience moving every show, all while supporting the entire band! He is professional, personable, and a great guy to work with. I consider myself in good company on and off the stage and would recommend him to anyone looking to play professionally.
-Darin Layne - Riders Against the Storm
I have played music with Dave Johnson for several years now. We have made amazing music together in various projects. Not only is Dave an amazing musician, he is a dear friend and a beautiful person, full of love. Dave cares about people and has a heart of gold. He is a man that people count on. His drums are a reflection of his deep, rich soul. Dave Johnson is the Atomic Drummer. A true winner in life, drum sticks are his weapon. It is a real honor and gift to be a part of Dave's life.
-Elliot Morgan - Riders Against the Storm/Hatch
Dave Johnson is one of the most stand up people I know. We have known each other for 7 years and in that time he has taught me a lot about hard work and perseverance. Our friendship began in music and has evolved into much more than that. As a musician Dave has shown me the value of organization and networking. He brought my musical career to another level by constantly pushing me to be a better player. His dedication to taking our musical projects to higher places has afforded me opportunities to travel, record, and play with people I never would have met otherwise. I've seen Dave struggle in life and I've seen him achieve things above and beyond his own personal goals. There are many words to describe Dave Johnson, but I choose "Solid". From his drum chops to his good natured being Dave Johnson will always be welcome at my dinner table.
-Chris Hart - Stephanie Grissett/Ugly Elephant
David Johnson's partnership with my event, Spitfest, was one of the best business decisions that I've made. I still remember going out to South Austin to see him perform while searching for a drummer. I approached him immediately and he said YES. Through this partnership evolved a friendship. In addition to Spitfest we also did a side gig called the Evolution. He brought a lot to the table that was beneficial to the both of us. Through Dave I was blessed to meet, work with and enjoy the sounds of Ugly Elephant (his band). This band brought more life to Spitfest and the Evolution. I've watched him grow and work hard. I'm proud that I crossed his path.
-Love Robinson - Spitfest
I met Dave in 2005 or 2006 from a craigslist ad I believe. He had just recently moved to Austin from Dallas and was looking forward to the challenge of busting into the Music scene. I met him at his house and the first thing I noticed was this massive what seemed like a 20 piece drum set just smack you in the face! I was like “DAMN this guy is for real!!” We hit it off immediately! I’ve had the pleasure of being in a band with Dave in More Cowbell for 3 years and most recently with Stephanie. He’s a monster player! His enthusiasm and positive thinking are inspiring and make you “want it” as he would say. I’m very proud of Dave and everything he’s accomplished. He will be a friend for life and I’m privileged to make music with him! Rock on Dave and always keep wanting it!
-Ed Martinez - More Cowbell
Dave Johnson has always been a mentor, teacher and father figure to me. His kindness and generosity is only surpassed by his talent as a drummer, band leader and friend. His laugh, contagious and boisterous, has always a been a warm reminder for me that there is a brighter side to everything and that with hard work and determination anything is possible. He has brought me down when I have been arrogant and brought me up when I have been too low to reach for anything. As a musician, nobody can compare to his phenomenal time, rhythm and presence on stage or in the studio. He is one of the smartest drummers in the Austin music scene, knowing exactly when to play the most basic beat to throwing in the wildest 2 bar fills. If you are ever looking for someone who adds to your circle or band in every possible way, look no further, you have found Dave Johnson.
-Austin Simmons - Ruby Jane & The Reckless
I’ve known Dave for several years and I’ve had the pleasure of playing and creating in a band with him for a little over a year at this point. We met when he was randomly passing out his Ugly Elephant Cds. I put it in the deck and was immediately impressed from the opening song. A couple of years later we ran into each other again and I was reminded that he was the guy that gave me that jammin ass cd. We became friends and talked about working together. It took a couple of more years before we became bandmates, but it was worth the wait! DJ knows his stuff man! He has “da riddim” and “tha funk” and his ear for creating and blending grooves are absolutely on the level! What I love most about Dave is that he ain’t afraid to take it there and by there I mean anywhere the song tells him he needs to go! No Boundaries!!!
-David “Sha” Alheem - Mojo Chyld
Dave is a very musical drummer. He isn't concerned with being "just" a timekeeper for the band. Dave writes parts that are just as integral to the song as the melody. Everything he plays is in service of the song. That's why he is in such demand as a player, he's not "just" a drummer, he's a true musician.
-Dee Rob - SouthTown/Blastphamus/Stephanie Grissett
Dave Johnson is a 'drummers drummer.' Highly respected, and well-known for heavy jazz improvisation with groups like Ugly Elephant and Hatch, Dave brings a great energy to our hip hop sound as Riders Against the Storm. He studies all the details inside and out, and always comes ready to hit hard! We are so thankful to have him as a core member of RAS.
-Chaka Mpeanaji - Riders Against the Storm
When I first met DJ aka Dave Johnson, it would have been unduly kind to classify me as a "hobbyist". I was pretty much a guy who played guitar and sang a little who was making music with a guy who played bass and sang even less. Needless to say, we barely belonged playing in someone's living room much less playing on the stage at a club.
Then....Dave happened.
He basically elevated myself and my friend to a level where we somehow became musicians and not bad ones at that. Through force of will and some killer beats, Dave changed us from "some guys who play music" to a band. We went, in one year, from Tuesday night's at a dive bar to the legendary viper room.
I've received some nice gifts over the course of my life but Dave gave me one of the finest: he gave me the gift of making me a musician. He gave me a completely different life than I would have had if we'd never met and for that I'm eternally grateful.
Years later Dave is more than just a musician with which I've played. He's someone I've grown to respect immeasurably as a musician and love as a friend and a brother. I, like everyone else I know, am a better person and a better musician due to Dave one day wandering into my life.
Congratulations on all of your richly deserved success and I look forward to being your friend for many years to come.
-Alon Bernstein - More Cowbell
When i think of Dave DJ Johnson the atomic drummer, the 1st thing that comes to mind is a fisher of men through sound. Dave has a way of reeling you into his drum rhythms and feeling you up with positive vibrations. Off of the drums, DJ is a great mentor and friend to many in the Austin area. His phrase "You gotta want it" has inspired me as a MC to go hard for what i want in life. Dave gives his all on and off stage, he is a great musician to play with.
-Queen Deelah - Artist, Actress and Activist