biography
With a style all his own, Devon Johnson has lent his unique vocal sound to country rock band Ruff Creek for the past ten years. Since 1997, Devon has led the band in its development from a local act into one of Pittsburgh's most sought after country rock bands, headlining in popular bars and clubs throughout Western Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia, as well as opening for national artists. With a jam packed schedule that includes nearly 200 shows per year, Devon and Ruff Creek capture the rhythm of the music with a steady sound and electric energy.
Growing up under the influence of his music loving parents, his musical tastes were directly influenced by the groundbreaking sounds of musicians such as Alabama, Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles, Journey and Willie Nelson. At the age of nine, Devon began to seriously pursue his love of singing. Three years later, at age twelve, he taught himself how to play the guitar.
Through the years, Devon entered and placed in over twenty-five regional and national singing competitions. After placing in the top twenty of over four hundred contestants during a 1996 contest in Nashville, Tennessee at the Grand Ol' Opry, Devon returned to the Pittsburgh area and hit the local scene as a solo artist. Before long, he had developed a solid following in a town that was predominately dominated by hard rock bands. And so, the following year, he decided to form Ruff Creek from a handful of talented local musicians in the Pittsburgh area.
As a performer, Devon captures the essence of modern country rock, while keeping true to his local roots. In addition to the on stage talent, Devon also co-wrote a majority of the songs featured on Ruff Creek's second CD, "No Regrets".