In the late 1990s, Josephine Johnny Watson burst onto the New Orleans music scene, leaving an indelible mark with his iconic “shake-a-leg” dance. As schoolkids practiced in front of mirrors, trying to perfect his moves, Josephine Johnny became a symbol of the city’s vibrant culture. When he performed, the crowd didn’t just watch—they joined in, creating an electrifying atmosphere wherever he went.
With lyrics like, “Now walk like a model. Now show ‘em how to wobble. Shake a leg wit’ it, shake a leg wit’ it. Do the Johnny in the air,” Watson had a way of commanding attention and making his dance moves irresistible. His performances were a sight to behold, as he effortlessly got everyone around him moving to the beat.
“For guys who were too cool to dance, Johnny made it too cool for them not to dance,” his niece recalled. His influence extended beyond nightclubs and music videos; even NFL players like Joe Horn and Reggie Wayne showcased his moves in the end zone. “The world took on his Josephine Johnny dance,” said DJ Money Fresh, highlighting how even megastars like Beyoncé incorporated his signature moves.
Watson’s journey began in the classrooms of McDonogh 36 Elementary and Booker T. Washington Senior High in New Orleans. Known for his sense of humor, he was always the life of the party. At home, he would entertain family and friends by remixing popular songs, adding his own name to the lyrics and making everyone laugh.
After high school, Watson began making mixtapes and frequented local music hotspots, competing in open-mic nights. In 1998, at a gathering organized by DJ Jubilee, Watson delivered a performance that would soon become legendary with his track “They Want Josephine Johnny.” DJ Jubilee recorded the performance, and DJ Money Fresh took it home, mixed it, and turned it into a hit that resonated across New Orleans.
“He had the longest-running song I have ever seen in New Orleans culture,” DJ Money Fresh remarked. The track continued to be a favorite even during the turbulent times of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Watson’s creativity wasn’t limited to dance; he also popularized catchphrases like “Lawd have mercy,” which became part of the city’s musical vernacular.
By the year 2000, Watson had signed with Baton Rouge’s Jam Tight Records, releasing the album Trouble Will Find You, which featured another hit, “Working Wit’ Sumthin’.” His impact on the bounce music genre was undeniable, and his contributions helped shape the sound of New Orleans.
Josephine Johnny Watson passed away at the age of 45 at his home in Houston, reportedly from a blood clot. His death marked the end of a remarkable career, but his legacy lives on in the music and dance culture of New Orleans and beyond. Watson’s influence continues to be felt, as his contributions to bounce music remain a vital part of the city’s rich musical history.
Commentaires