Johnny Flynn

Johnny Flynn is a name that may not be entirely familiar to everyone, but he has made an impact in the music industry in various ways. Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, on March 14, 1983, Johnny Flynn was raised in London, England. He is a multi-faceted musician who has gained recognition for his works in music, acting, and songwriting. Here’s why you should know who Johnny Flynn is.

Musical Journey

Johnny Flynn started to pursue his passion for music when he was still a student at the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art in London. He achieved his first success in music with his band called Johnny Flynn & The Sussex Wit. They released their debut album “A Larum” in 2008, which showcased Flynn’s ability to write and compose timeless folk-inspired songs with a hint of Celtic charm. The album drew comparisons to the works of Bob Dylan, Nick Drake, and Bert Jansch. The band’s second album, “Been Listening,” was released in 2010 and gained critical acclaim for their fusion of folk music with unexpected instruments such as Indian tabla and Chinese guzheng.

In 2013, Flynn released his solo album, “Country Mile.” It is an album that showcases Flynn’s versatility as a singer-songwriter, guitarist, and multi-instrumentalist. Flynn has cited influences ranging from jazz, blues, rock, and soul to the Irish folk music of his youth. He draws inspiration from various sources and combines them into his art seamlessly.

The Acting Career

Aside from his musical career, Johnny Flynn is also a well-known actor. He has starred in various TV shows, movies, and stage productions. His breakthrough performance was in the 2009 film “Crusade” alongside Bill Nighy and Gemma Arterton. He has also appeared in TV like “Lovesick,” “Genius,” and “Vanity Fair.”

Flynn’s acting skills have earned him critical acclaim in the theater world as well. In 2012, he starred in the West End stage production of “Jerusalem,” which earned him the prestigious Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical. He has also starred in various Shakespearean plays like “As You Like It” and “Twelfth Night.”

Flynn’s music has also found its way into his acting career. He has written and performed songs for several films like the Judy Garland biopic “Judy,” where he played her pianist, and the Netflix film “The Dig.”

Collaboration with David Bowie

Johnny Flynn’s musical style may not be the same as David Bowie’s, but in 2014, Flynn collaborated with the legendary artist on the musical production of “Lazarus.” The musical was a sequel to the film “The Man Who Fell To Earth,” which Bowie starred in. In “Lazarus,” Flynn portrayed the character of Thomas Newton, the same character Bowie played in the film. The production received critical acclaim, and Flynn’s performance added a new layer of depth to his already impressive career.

In conclusion, Johnny Flynn is an artist with many talents. His music is a reflection of his passion for folk-inspired songs, while his acting showcases his versatility as a performer. Flynn’s collaborations with other artists such as David Bowie cemented his status as a genuine and respected artist. If you haven’t explored his work yet, now is the perfect time.