Discography
Kris is an in-demand composer and arranger whose previous work includes Grammy- and Emmy-nominated projects. A curated selection of that work is included to preview below.
Discography
Kris’ Album
Kris' own recordings provide an excellent picture of his skill, versatility, creative insight, and thoughtfulness as a composer or arranger.
2019
All About That Basie
(Count Basie Orchestra)
Kris contributed three arrangements ("Hello," "Hallelujah," and "Can't Hide Love") to this record, which was Grammy-nominated for "Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album 2018."
2015
A Very Swingin' Basie Christmas
(Count Basie Orchestra)
Kris contributed the arrangement of "Let it Snow" to this record. The album also featured the track, "Good Swing Wenceslas," arranged by Sammy Nestico, which was Grammy-nominated for "Best Arrangement Instrumental or A Cappella."
Featured Projects
The Kris Johnson Group
Originally formed in 2007, the Kris Johnson Group plays an eclectic blend of Detroit-infused original music. Kris gathered the founding members from friendships formed in high school, under the tutelage of Marcus Belgrave, whose inspiration led them to genre-bending artistry. The result is a dynamic ensemble that explores an array of grooves from the Black American Music canon and themes of freedom and fearless self-expression.
#looptherapy
Kris' #looptherapy is explorative of the deep personal work he has undergone in recent years as he has explored breaking out of generational trauma. The circular nature of trauma has fascinated Kris, and #looptherapy artistically represents breaking through toxic patterns.
The project was originally released in video format on Kris' social media channels, but has since expanded into a full album and live solo performances.
