Stephanie Anne Johnson arrived at Bellingham’s New Prospect Theatre (NPT) on a recent night with their guitar, a set list of folk songs, and an infectious giggle that charmed the audience all evening. The Tacoma, Washington-based (and born and raised) singer-songwriter has a dedicated following, with one audience member trekking nearly four hours to attend the show and being rewarded with a “Happy Birthday” singalong for her efforts. And though Stephanie and their music were new to me, add one more to that dedicated following.

Having just watched the Bob Dylan biopic, A Complete Unknown, I’ve begun to reacquaint myself with his huge and vastly influential catalog. But, in addition to his songs, the larger message of Dylan’s story is how he established the essential role, culturally and musically, of the singer-songwriter. In the more than half century since Dylan emerged as a folk hero, thousands if not millions have walked the path he pioneered. Stephanie Anne Johnson travels that same road, singing songs “rooted in all that’s American, expresses the pain of the past, the roots of the down home and the hope that hard work will lead to proper reward.”

Johnson’s musical journey began at age 14. Growing up in a home where Willie Nelson, Duke Ellington, James Brown, Bobby “Blue” Bland, and Del Shannon might be playing at any one time led to their embrace of many musical styles. They took vocal and guitar lessons, sang in church, and listened to folk, country, gospel, jazz and blues. As a choral singer through high school and college, Johnson developed an expansive and formidable voice.

Shortly thereafter, Stephanie joined the cruise ship circuit, furthering their performer chops. A contestant reaching the Top 20 on the 2013 season of The Voice validated their talent as well as an ability to connect with listeners. Eventually growing frustrated with Hollywood, though, Johnson returned to the Pacific Northwest and has continued to grow their craft, and audience, performing regularly throughout the region.

During the concert on Dec. 28, the singer-songwriter, having just turned 40, remarked during the nearly sold-out show that they’d been a working musician since the age of 25. All those years onstage have resulted in a charming, and candid stage presence that immediately draws you in. Then you hear that voice; strong, self-assured with a stunning dynamic range. Over the course of the evening, the astounded audience gave Johnson several well-earned mid-song ovations.

Stream Stephanie Anne Johnson’s 2023 release, Jewels, on Spotify.

Opening with the delicate “2 AM” from their 2019 album with the Hidogs, Take This Love, Johnson quickly captivated us with that powerful and expressive voice. Two more singles from their work with Hidogs, “Highway” and “Gosh Oh Gee” were followed by “Outtasight” and “Trouble” from the 2013 debut solo album, Hollatchagurl. “He Knows,” introduced us to their newest album, Jewels. With the night’s first cover (and obligatory holiday song), “I’ll be Home for Christmas,” Johnson introduced local musician Jan Peters to accompany them on harmonica.

Charmingly candid about past lives, struggles, and loves, Johnson regaled us with stories about the songs and their own musical history. Introducing “Makin’ Love Ain’t the Same as it Used to Be,” they made veiled and hilarious references to their younger self, particularly living the cruise ship life. They went on to joke, “I can see a white guy in a cowboy hat singing this song,” the mostly white audience snickering in appreciation. But it wasn’t only the witty, easy banter that charmed us. Johnson’s ability to tackle just about any musical genre, from soft ballads to country and western to stunning pop standards kept the rapt audience engaged throughout. Even opera gets a nod; her guitar, nicknamed ‘Mary Elizabeth,’ honors Seattle based opera star Mary Elizabeth Williams.

Watch the official music video for “The Day That You Began” by Stephanie Anne Johnson on YouTube:

The song selection during the second set focused primarily on their 2023 album, Jewels. Opening with “The Day That You Began,” its hopeful lyrics and bouncy melody was punctuated with Johnson’s constant smile and occasional giggles as they sang. Afterward Johnson explained their frequent laughter during and between songs that “young baby Me is still in here” not quite believing that they get to do this for a living. Who wouldn’t at least chuckle at knowing you get to do what you love and love what you do?

Watch Stephanie Anne Johnson perform “Leave the Light On” on KEXP Live via YouTube:

“It Works” and the beautiful confessional ballad “Apology” followed, the latter’s delivery and subject matter latter vaguely reminiscent of the late great Jim Croce. Johnson then invited Peters back to the stage for “Wild Mountain Time” and a stunning rendition of Bonnie Raitt’s “Love Has No Pride.” The show closed out with “Can’t Go Home,” “Leave the Light On,” and the title track from Jewels.

While introducing the prayer-like “Jewels” Johnson remarked on faith and song, “hymns often tell you you’re bad, a sinner…I just don’t believe that’s the way to invite folks to a party.” Indeed, Johnson told Real Change News some years ago, “My rebellion is in song and it is still being visible to people and it is still attempting to uplift people. I become a riot this way in, and of myself, my standing somewhere still existing, smiling, like a crazy person.” Sounds like quite a party…count me in.

For more on Stephanie Anne Johnson’s music, videos, and tour schedule please visit her website.

Here are some more photos of Stephanie Anne Johnson performing at the New Prospect Theatre on Dec. 28, 2024. All photos courtesy of and copyright Mark Caicedo.