Milwaukee Musician Malik Johnson Receives Grammy Certificate for Participation in Kirk Franklin's Album, "Long Live Love"
Malik Johnson has been playing the cello since 3rd grade and at the age of 21, he’s worked his way up to the mainstream music industry. Johnson recently received a Grammy certificate for his cello work in well-known Gospel singer Kirk Franklin’s Album, “Long Live Love”.
According to Johnson, it was through networking that he was able to successfully navigate himself through the industry. As a student at Chicago’s DePaul University, he was introduced to Matt Jones who is a string arranger and coordinator. Jones came to one of Johnson’s rehearsal classes, which led to them having a private conversation, and the rest is history.
Malik Johnson’s Grammy certificate for his participation in “Love Live Love”.
Johnson knew he wanted to do something that he wasn’t accustomed to and that meant fighting for a dream many others couldn’t even fathom.
“I believe in manifestation,” Johnson said about accomplishing his goals. “Really focus on your goal at hand [and] don’t be afraid to invest in yourself.”
He’s very honored to have been a part of this production, but to him it’s more about being a good person and making music than the awards. Johnson believes that if he had a negative mindset then he wouldn’t have been able to work with artists such as Noname.
Johnson performed at three of Noname’s shows at Thalia Hall and was able to record strings on her latest album, “Room 25”.
Last November, Johnson got the chance to play with Kanye West for his opera “Nebuchadnezzar” in LA. He’s also recorded for John Legend and performed live with PJ Morton.
By being in the industry, Johnson got to see the many different parts and positions that go into producing a song. The jobs range from sound engineer to selling merchandise on tours.
Malik Johnson with Noname (T) and PJ Morton (B). (Pictures provided by Malik Johnson)
Along with playing the cello, Johnson is a producer who goes by the name 99theproducer.
As he was growing up, Johnson considered himself a super introvert, but now he’s more comfortable in his abilities and putting himself out there.
“I’m the same kid. I grew up on the Northside of Milwaukee and I’ve been able to follow my dreams,” Johnson said. “Just put the time into imagining your life.”
“You’re going to be able to do the things you want to do,” he added.
To check out 99theproducer’s music, click here.