Lonnie Johnson Blues Singer and Guitarist Music Guide provides a brief glimpse at the life and music of the great blues guitarist, Lonnie Johnson. br br Alonzo "Lonnie" Johnson (February 8, 1899 – June 16, 1970) was an American blues and jazz singer, guitarist, violinist and songwriter. He was a pioneer of jazz guitar and jazz violin and is recognized as the first to play an electrically amplified violin.