Ken "The Snake" Johnson, who was drummer for acts including Ike and Tina Turner, the Steve Miller Band, Kenny Neal and bluesmen James Cotton, has passed away. He died on March 19, 2005 of diabetes complications. Ken was 53 years old.
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Born as Kennard Johnson, but billed as "The Snake", the respected percussionist was best known for his ability to drive a band and for keeping the cymbals high to accommodate his long arms.
Ken Johnson played thirteen years with the James Cotton Blues Band. He recorded two albums with the Steve Miller Band - 'Fly Like an Eagle' and 'Book of Dreams'.
Ken Johnson also played with the Chi-Lites at President Richard Nixon's inauguration, and once traveled to Africa to perform at the request of the State Department
Ken also founded his own band, simply called Ken Johnson & Co, with whom he released 'She’s Dynomite' in 1989.
In 1992, Johnson moved to Jonesboro, where he played with local musicians.
Ken "The Snake" Johnson, who was drummer for acts including Ike and Tina Turner, the Steve Miller Band, Kenny Neal and bluesmen James Cotton, has passed away. He died on March 19, 2005 of diabetes complications. Ken was 53 years old.
