Full Name: Randi S. Johnson
Thanks for your time. So, tell us in what part of the First Coast you reside now and how long you have lived there?
I’ve lived in Jacksonville since September 2023
When did you know you had an interest in music?
I don’t recall my introduction to music, but as long as I can remember, I’ve been interested in music
Did you start with any specific instrument and migrate to other instruments?
I started with a bass guitar and moved on to 6-string electric guitars
Are you currently in a band (or bands)?
I’m in a band in Charlotte, NC, called Cope Fiend, and in Jacksonville, FL, I’m with 1blackfrend
Who is your favorite musician or what musician influenced you the most?
Prince and Stevie Wonder had a huge influence on my tastes in music but Ani Difranco , Lauryn Hill and Cyndi Lauper had a profound effect on my approach to the guitar and lyrics
Are there any specific memories or highlights of your career that you would like to tell us about?
Meeting my bandmates for every single practice, rehearsal or gig, gives me life and immense satisfaction.
What area bands or musicians are at the top of your list to go out to hear?
Nikayla the Phunk
CyrusGQ
Roadie
Lauren Woodall
Sun Lowly
DigDog
Tori Nance
Rambler Kane
Taylor Roberts
Diego Plains
The Portrait
Erica Reece
Los Muertos
Elyse Berln
Campfire Jones
Herd the Cat
The Debt
Universal Green
Bryce Alastair
Project Triad
Doubleside
Blossom n Bone
Violet Mourning
Do you have a favorite venue that you enjoy playing locally?
Solune Coffee, Jack Rabbits and Southern Grill
Do you have any gigs coming up to tell our readers about?
October 30th Jack Rabbits
November 8th PorchFest
November 21st Keg & Coin
What is the best way for musicians to network?
Go to shows, play at open mics, there are so many in this big city. Busking and go to shows just to watch and be kind always.
Are there any local venue owners/managers that you would like to rave about?
Steve Ezell is a good friend of mine, he has the passion and space to nurture and cultivate a beautiful, safe space for artists and musicians, even us weirder ones. He owns Solune Coffee, and I’m grateful to have found a space that hosts everyone in the community.
If you had a question you would like to ask another musician, what would it be?
Are you making a living doing what you love? If not, why?
Can you explain the band’s name, 1blackfrend?
I can and I will, 1blackfrend represents the best friend with the darkest humor
What’s it like being in a band with your best friends?
It’s fun most of the time and occasionally sad when we have to part. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
What has your experience been as a black woman playing rock music?
Rock music is home for me. I feel at peace when I scream and my brothers and I have a very interesting language that only we speak among the three of us when composing music together. I couldn’t have asked for such gifts.
Personal hobbies or interests? Family?
Golf and No
What’s the best thing for you about living on the First Coast?
I’m close (proximity) to my friends, and this area is brimming with interesting people, places, and things.
Where and how can folks learn more about you and/or your band? Links to your website?
1blackfrend.com
@1blackfrend
Facebook.com/1blackfrendfb
YouTube.com/@1blackfrendmusic
Is there anything else that you want to tell everyone reading this?
no
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