Plas Johnson, a saxophonist who became one of the first Black musicians to establish himself in the Los Angeles studio scene, died at age 94. Johnson’s career breakthrough came during a 1963 session with composer Henry Mancini, where he performed the tenor saxophone melody for The Pink Panther theme. The composition, released as a single after the film’s success, reached the US Top 10 and became his most recognizable work.
Working as a first-call session musician, Johnson demonstrated considerable versatility across multiple instruments, including soprano, alto, tenor and baritone saxophones, as well as flute and clarinet. His technical abilities and stylistic range made him sought-after for diverse recording projects spanning multiple genres. He contributed to pop recordings by artists including the Platters, Sam Cooke, and Bobby Day, while also appearing on albums by Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and numerous other notable performers across jazz, soul, and rock genres.
Born in Donaldsonville, Louisiana, Johnson moved to Los Angeles in 1954 following military service. He became a favorite among prominent arrangers and quickly established himself as an ideal studio player, frequently booking multiple sessions daily. Notable arrangers such as Nelson Riddle and Billy May regularly employed him for film, television, and recording projects.
Johnson released several albums under his own name, including This Must Be the Plas! and Mood for the Blues in the late 1950s and early 1960s. His career gained further prominence following his contract with Concord Records in the 1970s, which led to appearances at jazz venues and festivals worldwide. Johnson is survived by his wife Carol, six adult children, eight grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren.
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