From the soulful streets of Savannah, Georgia, Skoolshirtjohnny — known online as @Skoolshirtjohnny — is proving that authenticity, faith, and persistence can turn dreams into destiny. A true self-made artist, John’s journey into music started with a voice his grandmother always believed in. “My grandma instilled most of my passions into me,” he recalls. “She used to compliment my voice all the time. From then, I knew I wanted to perform — first as an actor, then as a musician.”
That passion turned real when his brother handed him a gaming laptop and a mic. From there, he recorded his first song — and fell in love with making music. During middle school, his talent began to shine. “Even the teachers supported me,” he says proudly, remembering when a coach played his song You Lied for the entire school. “That let me know I was on the right path.”
His sound? Raw, versatile, and deeply emotional. Skoolshirtjohnny’s music reflects his life — pain, heartbreak, faith, and triumph. “I make songs about what I go through — pain, disrespect, trauma, and also the good things like Jesus Christ, getting over being broken, and finding happiness,” he shares.
His most popular track, I’m Gone, recorded with simple Apple earbuds, became a defining moment. “It wasn’t the best quality, but people loved it,” he says. “That gave me the confidence I needed.”
Independent to the core, he writes, produces, and promotes his own music, with his brother Rackkade filming his videos. Through nine years of grind, he’s seen growth, learned resilience, and stayed humble. “All I need is a push,” he declares confidently. “Mark my words — I’m gonna be the biggest artist in the world.”
Listen to Distractions: Stream Here
