Personal info
Known for
Music Director
Gender
Male
Birthday
26 March
Location
Kerala, India
Edit pageJohnson Master
Biography
Johnson Master (T. A. Johnson; 26 March 1953 – 18 August 2011) was a celebrated Indian film composer and music director, best known for his influential work in Malayalam cinema. Born in Nellikkunnu, Thrissur, Kerala, he became one of the most respected composers of his generation.
Johnson began his professional career as an assistant to legendary composer G. Devarajan in the 1970s and later established himself as an independent composer. He composed music for around 300 films, creating both memorable songs and acclaimed background scores.
His notable films include Koodevide (1983), Namukku Parkkan Munthiri Thoppukal (1986), Thoovanathumbikal (1987), Oru Minnaminunginte Nurunguvettam (1987), Vadakkunokkiyantram (1989), Perumthachan (1990), Amaram (1991), Bharatham (1991), Njan Gandharvan (1991), Ponthan Mada (1994) and Bhoothakkannadi (1997).
Johnson won the National Film Award twice—for Best Music Direction for Ponthan Mada and for Best Background Score for Sukrutham. He also received five Kerala State Film Awards. His music was admired for its lyrical melodies, expressive orchestration, and sensitive use of background music.
He died of a heart attack in Chennai on 18 August 2011, aged 58. Johnson Master remains one of the most influential figures in Malayalam film music, with his songs and scores continuing to be celebrated by audiences and filmmakers.
