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Willie Neal Johnson

Willie Neal Johnson (August 25, 1935 – January 10, 2001) was an American gospel singer, who became known as "Country Boy" for his rootsy blues-driven style and his down to earth, friendly personality.Willie was born in Tyler, Texas, United States; he was the oldest of six children in a musical family. His mother motivated her children to pursue their singing careers by taking them to church and making them sing on Sundays. While in his teens he was tapped to join Rev. C. W. Jackson's group the Five Ways of Joy Gospel Singers. A few years later he formed Willie Neal Johnson and the Gospel Keynotes with long-time friends, Ralph McGee, Rev. J. D. Talley, Charles Bailey, John Jackson, Lonzo Jackson, and Archie B. McGee in 1964. After rising to popularity across t… more »