Fans and Friends Mourn Loss of Johnny Artis, Beloved Musician

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Late yesterday evening word spread across social media that beloved musician Johnny Artis passed away due to complications from Covid.

Longtime friend and one time roommate, Duncan Cameron posted, “It is with a heavy heart that I tell you about the passing of one of the best friends I have ever had. We just found out tonight Johnny Artis is no longer with us. I have no words, only tears.”

In January 2020, Artis had been diagnosed with congestive health failure and friends rallied right away, banding together to raise funds for “the man with the biggest heart” and his family, including son Elijah, 10.

Five bands, including Artis’ own threw a fundraiser at The Light Horse Restaurant at 715 King Street in Old Town. The bash turned into an outpouring of love and support for a man who has brought so much joy and many happy memories to his legions of local fans.

The GoFundMe account opened at that time raised $9,000 of a $30,000 goal.  (The account is still open and accepting donations, which the Artis family can use now more than ever. Click here to donate.)

Artis had bounced back a bit, and performed at the Birchmere in September 2020, and as recently as last Tuesday at Madam’s Organ for a birthday party, where the crowd reveled in his rendition of  “Tennessee Whiskey,” according to dear friend Stacy Brooks.

Local fans remember seeing him play jazz, blues, Southern rock, funk, swing, reggae and country at The Wharf, 219 Basin Street Lounge, Moose Lodge, private house parties along the Potomac, as well as in area venues from Manassas to Adams Morgan.

“Most of my following in in Alexandria, Virginia, where I grew up,” Artis told Cheryl Spangler in a video interview. “I started off as a dishwasher in Old Town at the original Warehouse restaurant,” He mused with a soft smile, “Yeah, dishwasher. Then waiter, bartender. Wound up being Executive Chef!”