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BORN
1928
DIED
2017
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Johnny Janis Obituary
Nashville, TN
Johnny Janis, 89, of Nashville, Tennessee, died on Friday, March 31, 2017, at the Tennessee State Veterans' Home in Humboldt, Tennessee. Born Tuesday, March 20, 1928, in Chicago, Illinois, he was a world renown jazz guitarist, vocalist, and entertainer, and served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He is survived by his three children, John Janis, Jr., Julie Janis, and Dina Janis-MacFarlane, six grandchildren, and a half sister, Janis Redlich. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dale Vinicur Janis.
Cremation services will be under the direction of Johnson-Williams Funeral Home, 731-627-3236. Online condolences may be made to the family at johnson-williamsfuneralhome.com. Johnson-Williams Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of John "Johnny" Janis, Sr.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
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4 Entries
Taylor
June 25, 2025
Just learned about Johnny Janis from his recording of "If I Only Had a Brain" from "Wizard of Oz." On youtube. Have been listening to his other music since then. Thanks for this page and tribute to his memory.
Paul Cammarata
September 6, 2022
Johnny Janis was an excellent musician and his singing was featured on an excellent LP produced by Hugh Hefner and Arranged\Conducted by Don Costa, "Once in a Blue Moon" on Monument records. He should not be forgotten and he had a wonderful manager furnished by no other than Tony Bennett.
Jay Esposito
March 30, 2018
Just now hearing of Johnny's passing. My late father, Gene Esposito,(pianist/arranger)was a contemporaneous friend on the Chicago jazz scene. I have one vivid memory of Johnny: I watched him play and sing "If I Only Had a Brain", with the verse. His interpretation/ performance was surprisingly moving, and nearly brought me to tears.
Personally, I was friends with Johnnies daughter, Julie. We spent time together in the early 80s. I hope she is well.
Tom Nelson
September 26, 2017
John was a great singer & Jazz Guitarist. I had the privilege of working with John in the late 70's. He was my Manager and produced 3 records with me, All the Cryin in the World, How do You Tell & Butterfly Day's. He was my Mentor and friend. GOD Bless You John and Thanks for sharing your knowledge with me. Your Songs will always live on and be with me always!
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