As an artist, Ben’s natural abilities with the guitar 

and unique vocals were not discovered until his 

stepmother gave him his first guitar, a 1971 

Yamaha sg 60.  After countless hours of 

determination, Ben has come up with a unique 

sound mostly inspired by the likes of Chris Knight, 

Cody Canada, and Robert Earl Keen.  Ben 

furthered his talent and began to write songs of his 

own that reflects the life of growing up in a small 

town with stories of family, struggles, and love.

Now along with new tour 

Vincent Bush - lead guitar, Ben’s unique sound 

can be seen  and heard throughout  Texas.

the youngest of four brothers, made a name for 

himself locally with his guitar and his vocals. The son 

of Sandy and Hoyt Johnson, Ben was born and 

raised in Smithville from Pre-k till high school. It was 

during the last few years of his public schooling 

career where he found that school just wasn’t his 

thing, but music came to him naturally and he 

begin to teach himself how to play guitar and use 

his voice. Now at age 22 and with 4 years of guitar 

playing under his belt, his talent has developed into 

something extraordinary. Ben’s musical genre 

exemplifies Texas country/red dirt – a mix of country, 

blues, and rock – pure Americana.  

For his relative newness to the music circuit, Ben has 

been heard and appreciated throughout the 

region.  Whether playing at Cistern Country Store, 

Smithville Jamboree, Cheatham Street, Green 

Mesquite, or even Gary’s Spot, Ben has built a 

following of fans and the respect of other musical 

talents.  The broad appeal and vast appreciation 

for Ben’s music has come to fruition with the release 

of his debut CD/EP – BEN TYLER JOHNSON and The 

Hired Guns.  This recording of Ben’s original music 

includes participation from legendary musicians 

from the likes of Brandon Rhyder, Honeybrowne, 

Getocowboys bands.