Johnny P was a Chicago R&B singer who rose to fame in the 1990s for his smooth vocals and collaborations with some of the biggest names in hip-hop. He passed away on November 27, 2016, at the age of 44, after being in a coma for several weeks. His cause of death remains unknown, but his legacy lives on through his music and his fans.
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Early Life and Career
Johnny P was born John L. Parkinson in Chicago, Illinois, on September 12, 1972. He began singing at the age of four, and was influenced by artists like Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, and Sam Cooke. He signed his first recording contract with Columbia Records in 1989, and released his debut album Connect the Dots that same year. The album featured the singles “I Don’t See Nothing Wrong” and “Connect the Dots”, which showcased his soulful voice and catchy melodies.
Breakthrough and Success
Johnny P’s breakthrough came in 1996, when he collaborated with fellow Chicago rap group Do or Die on their hit single “Po Pimp”. The song, which also featured Twista, was a smash hit that reached number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number one on the Hot Rap Singles chart. Johnny P’s smooth hook contrasted with the fast-paced rapping of Do or Die and Twista, creating a unique sound that defined the Chicago hip-hop scene.
Johnny P continued to work with Do or Die on several other songs, such as “Playa Like Me and You”, “Sex Appeal”, and “Yo Body”. He also collaborated with other rap stars, such as Scarface, 2Pac, Snoop Dogg, Master P, and The Outlawz. One of his most notable features was on Scarface’s “Smile”, which also featured a posthumous verse from 2Pac. The song was released six months after 2Pac’s death in 1997, and reached number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number two on the Hot Rap Singles chart.
Johnny P also released his second solo album The Next in 1998, under Rap-A-Lot Records/Virgin Records. The album featured guest appearances from Scarface, Do or Die, Twista, and The Legendary Traxster. The album also included production from Mike Dean, who later became known for his work with Kanye West. The album spawned the singles “It’s On Me” and “Only Time Will Tell”.
Later Years and Death
Johnny P’s career slowed down in the 2000s, as he focused more on his family and personal life. He still made occasional appearances on songs by other artists, such as Kanye West’s “Impossible” from the Mission: Impossible III soundtrack in 2006, and Do or Die’s “Do U?” from their album Picture This II in 2006.
In November 2016, rumors circulated that Johnny P had passed away after Wicked Entertainment posted a message on Facebook announcing his death. However, his family members denied these claims, stating that he was still alive but on life support after slipping into a coma. His condition did not improve, and he eventually passed away on November 27, 2016. His cause of death was not revealed to the public.
Legacy and Tributes
Johnny P’s death was mourned by many fans and fellow artists, who paid tribute to him on social media and in interviews. Twista released a statement expressing his sadness and admiration for Johnny P, calling him “the reincarnation of Sam Cooke” and “a truly gifted singer and a legend”. Lupe Fiasco tweeted that Johnny P was a “Chicago legend” and posted a picture of him with Do or Die. Do or Die also posted a message on Instagram confirming Johnny P’s death and sending their prayers to his family.
Johnny P’s music remains influential and popular among fans of R&B and hip-hop. His songs have been sampled by artists such as Drake, Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, Jeezy, Wiz Khalifa, Kendrick Lamar, Future, Nicki Minaj, and many more. His voice has been described as “pure”, “angelic”, “soulful”, and “timeless”. He is widely regarded as one of the best singers to ever come out of Chicago, and one of the most underrated R&B singers of all time.
Johnny P is survived by his wife Sherry Parkinson and his four children: John Jr., Jada, Jalen, and Jazmine. He is also remembered by his fans and peers who continue to celebrate his music and legacy. Rest in peace Johnny P.
