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Floyd “Candy” Johnson: The Saxophonist Who Brought Sweetness to Jazz
Born: May 1, 1922 and Died: June 28, 1981
Floyd “Candy” Johnson, a true jazz legend, grew up in Madison, Illinois, and went on to make waves in the jazz and R&B scenes from the 1940s to the 1970s. Known for his smooth saxophone tone and laid-back style, Johnson left an unforgettable mark on the jazz world—a legacy that still resonates with music lovers today.
He got his nickname “Candy” not from any on-stage antics but from his love for sweets over booze. A fellow musician coined the name, and it became part of his charm both on and off the stage.
Johnson’s weapon of choice was a Selmer Paris tenor sax, the go-to for many jazz giants of the era. These saxes, especially the classic 1940s models, delivered a warm, full sound that helped him create his signature vibe.
Peppermint Sticks Band and the Birth of Danceland Records
In 1948, Floyd “Candy” Johnson moved to Detroit, where he formed a band called The Peppermint Sticks. True to his nickname, the band became known for their distinctive candy-striped suits, and Johnson himself would throw peppermint sticks to the audience during performances. This playful gimmick added to the band’s vibrant and joyful reputation, endearing them to fans across Detroit’s jazz scene.
The setup included:
- Tenor Saxophone: Floyd “Candy” Johnson led the charge with his soulful and expressive tenor saxophone.
- Electric Guitar: The guitar provided a rhythmic undercurrent, featuring riffs typical of early R&B. Brands like Gibson and Epiphone were popular at the time.
- Upright Bass: The deep, steady pulse of the upright bass anchored the groove. In 1948, acoustic basses from companies like Kay were standard.
- Drums: The drum kit, likely from Ludwig or Gretsch, delivered the drive and energy that propelled the track forward.
- Piano: A Steinway or Baldwin piano added harmonic richness to the mix, accentuating the upbeat rhythms.
The same year, Johnson crossed paths with music producer Morris Kaplan, the whistler, who was starting a record label called Danceland Records. In the basement of Kaplan’s building, equipped with a new Wilcox Wire Recorder, they recorded the first tracks for the label, including “Ebony Jump”—a tune that showcased Johnson’s saxophone prowess and a classic rhythm & blues arrangement. Here is what Morris and Candy might have looked like.
Morris Kaplan (left) with Floyd “Candy” Johnson during the creation of Danceland Records.
“Ebony Jump” and Instrumentation of 1948
Floyd “Candy” Johnson passed away in 1981 in Framingham, Massachusetts, but his legacy endures. From his days with Andy Kirk to his own recordings with Danceland Records, and his later work with jazz giants, Floyd “Candy” Johnson’s career reflects the evolution of American music in the mid-20th century.
