We had the good fortune of connecting with Demetrius (Deacon) Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Demetrius (Deacon), as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for your children?
The most important thing I could’ve done or (better yet) am doing as a parent is equip my children. More specifically with knowledge, practicality and most importantly the word of God. Growing up, my mother didn’t have a lot of materialistic things to give my sisters and I. But what she did arm us with was how to go to the source of all things. That coupled with a little grit and some determination allowed my wife and I to reach levels of accomplishment, at an earlier stage of adulthood, than she ever did. Which brings me to the culminating thing that I believe my mom’s efforts and now mine and my wife’s will yield for our children…LEGACY!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Anyone associated with me knows that I described myself as a storyteller, that’s because I see myself more as a communicator rather than an artist. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not some self-righteous “I wanna be different than everybody” type of person detached from reality; I know what I do is art and I enjoy that aspect of it. That said, I created The Soap Box to focus more on the stories being told rather than the songs being sung. This is what I believe sets us apart from other live music events. Ours is meant to bring audiences and experience where music and storytelling collide with the purpose of spreading hope. Providing an outlet where people can enjoy a wholesome atmosphere and entertainment, hear great music from all types of genres, and be inspired by soul-stirring stories is what I’m most proud of! I’ve spoken with several attendees that after being told what the event was did not truly understand until they experienced it first-hand. Giving people a reason to hope, one story at a time, is what The Soap Box is all about. However, this journey has not been without its challenges. It all began on the heels of a CD I recorded years ago, and I wanted to perform some of the songs (along with other popular tunes) in a local lounge. I didn’t have a name for what I’d be doing but thought this method would be a good way to engage people with my music. Conversely, the idea never made it off the ground because my wife and I, shortly thereafter, relocated to Texas. Six years and a couple of conversations later, the idea sprung back up. But this time with a name and a definitive purpose. The Soap Box; now going on for more than five years. Even with having to overcome periodic venue changes, inconsistent social media presence, and a lack of a team to handle logistics, media, etc., we’ve remained pretty relevant in our lane. This success is attributed to the relationships my wife and I have cultivated with people that see the necessity and vision for what we are trying to accomplish and have backed it by providing resources or opening their doors to allow us to continue. It has been a remarkable journey building this brand and the challenges have taught me to value the following three things the most. – Constructive feedback (it’s necessary) – Not being afraid or too proud to ask for help – Staying true to myself. I believe if I continue to apply these principles anyone who has the opportunity to spend time with me and/or experience The Soap Box will see that it’s not about me. This is about people; serving them and loving them enough to share the hope of Jesus!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Some of the coolest places I’ve visited since I migrated to Texas are mostly restaurants (surprise, surprise). However, if I were responsible for creating an itinerary for a week’s long journey of fun it would include the following (in no particular order): Brenner’s on the Bayou We Got Wings & More Galleria – Ice skating IMAX at the Museum of Natural Science City Centre Top Golf Alley Theatre Houston Improv Finn Hall

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My first shout out automatically goes to my wife (Sarahdia)! Aside from God, she has been the backbone of this whole thing; the main person that has pushed me when I didn’t want to be and has consistently prayed for me when I felt defeated. Babe, you are the epitome of a “ride-or-die” chic! Thanks for believing in me and riding on this sometimes-rocky road with me. These next shout outs are reserved for all my family and friends that have rocked with us since the beginning and contributed big time to the continued progression of The Soap Box. So, to my mom (Corinthia), sisters (Gigi & Val), in-laws (Poppy; Momma Mac; Aunties Yolette & Cathy; Brittany), Brandon, Sharrisse, Derrick, Dameon, Cayvn, and Joel thank you for supporting and believing in the vision!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onthesoapbox/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesoapboxevent

Image Credits
Nate Rossen Jordan Sennett