Legendary US DJ & Producer Paul Johnson Passes Away, Age 50

Highly-regarded DJ and producer Paul Johnson has passed away, age 50. 

The US artist has died following a stint in extensive care after contracting COVID-19. The news was confirmed via Johnson's Facebook account today. 

"Our greatness passed away this morning at 9am the house music legend we all know as PJ aka PAUL JOHNSON has passed away in this day of AUGUST 4th 2021," read the statement. 

"Rest In Heaven Paul."

Johnson released his debut album Bump Talkin' in 1995 after years of working as a DJ and producer in Chicago. He followed it up with Second Coming and Feel The Music in 1996, The Groove I Have and In Motion, Vol. 3 in 1999 and Mix Connection, Vol. 1 in 2004. 

Johnson was no stranger to chart success either with his 1999 track Get Get Down gaining popularity around the world and becoming a Top 40 hit in Australia, the Netherlands, Greece, Germany and more. 

Johnson released material on some of house music's most influential labels, including Peacefrog, Defected and Cajual, as well as co-founding Dust Traxx.

Tributes have been flowing in for Johnson today. 

"My heart is so heavy right now. Paul Johnson. Thank you for so much amazing house music," said producer and DJ Kenny Larkin via social media today.  

"I hope you don’t mind that I tell people about our last conversation a few months ago, when we spoke about being  members of an exclusive club no one wants to be a part of… The 'Gunshot Victim' club. I tried to not seem too star struck, as we spoke, but it was obvious I was. 

"I told you that it was a lot of your earlier disco house that I played nonstop in my DJ sets that helped shaped my DJ style, even today. Thank you for the amazing music and the inspiration. Rest easy, bro. I will hold on to those voicemails forever."

"Another life taken so soon. Paul Johnson has sadly passed away," said artist Rebekah. 

"One of the main purveyors of Chicago house, and many an after party playing his tracks was had by myself. When I think of real house music Paul Johnson is always at the forefront of my mind. Today is a sad day and a huge loss to dance music. RIP legend."