Hobo Johnson & The Lovemakers

Over the years, NPR’s Tiny Desk Contests have uncovered some serious talent, from Fantastic Negrito to Tank And The Bangas to Gaelynn Lea. That Hobo Johnson didn’t manage to win the 2018 edition with Peach Scone only goes to show the level of competition involved. Johnson, who already had two albums to his name, went viral thanks to his entry and his third album, The Fall Of Hobo Johnson, surged up the charts in its wake.

Johnson was born Frank Lopes, Jr in Sacramento, California. Thrown out of the house by his father at age 19, Lopes was forced to sleep in his car, showering at a gym and working at a pizza place. It was during this time that he created the stage persona of Hobo Johnson, using his quirky, emotive brand of hip hop as an outlet for his frustrations in life and love.

His debut album as Hobo Johnson was 1994 Toyota Corolla, named for his temporary abode. This was followed two years later by The Rise Of Hobo Johnson and 2019’s The Fall Of Hobo Johnson, his first for a major label.

In June 2021, a new single I Want To See The World arrived as a taster for Hobo Johnson's fourth album The Revenge Of Hobo Johnson. Hobo Johnson also announced five UK tour dates for February and March 2022.