Jack Johnson Biography, Life, Interesting Facts

Jack Johnson is an American singer and songwriter. He is best known for his mellow-style music on the soundtrack of the Curious George movie.

Childhood And Early Life

Jack Johnson was born on May 18, 1975, in Oahu, Hawaii.  His father, professional surfer Jeff Johnson, taught Jack and his brothers who to surf. He took up the guitar when he was in his teens. As a teenager, Johnson was a competitive surfer.  He quit after a surfing accident.  

Education

Jack Johnson attended University of California: Santa Barbara where he graduated with a degree in film.  However, his love of music led him to try his success in making music.

Career

Jack Johnson music career started when he wrote songs for the 2000 cult hit surfer movie Thicker Than Water.  It was just the beginning of the interest from music labels and tours that followed. His first album Brushfire Fairytales was a big hit in 2001, but he gained even more success in 2006 with the film soundtrack for the animated movie Curious George.  Altogether, Johnson has recorded six solo albums.

Later Life

Jack Johnson has continued touring.  He also organized an Earth Day concert called the Kokua Festival that raises money for environmental causes.

Personal Life And Legacy

Jack Johnson married his wife Kim on July 22, 2000.  The couple has two sons and one daughter.  The family lives in Oahu.

Philanthropic Works / Humanitarian Work

Jack Johnson and his wife Kim founded the Johnson Ohana Foundation.  In 2008, 100% of the profits from his world tour went to support environmental, art, and music education. 

The organization also works with community groups that sustain local food systems and projects that focus on plastic free initiatives. The organization has donated over $4 million in direct and matching donations.

Awards And Achievements  

The year 2006 was a good year for Jack Johnson regarding awards.  He earned two Grammy Award nominations including Best Male Pop Vocal Performance and Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals.

Summary Of Major Works

Soundtracks

Thicker Than Water, 2000
Sing-a-Longs and Lullabies for the Film Curious George, 2006 

Solo Albums

Brushfire Fairytales, 2001
On and On, 2002
In Between Dreams, 2005
Sleep Through the Static, 2008
To the Sea, 2010