Abner Ramirez and Amanda Sudano Ramirez, the dynamic husband-and-wife duo behind JOHNNYSWIM, have been enchanting audiences with their unique blend of folk, rock, blues, and pop for over a decade. Their latest release, “Frank Gehry,” continues their tradition of creating music that resonates deeply with listeners. The couple’s journey into music began nearly 20 years ago during a songwriting session, which quickly evolved into a lifelong partnership.
“So we started writing songs. We made out, and then the next thing you know, we have a mortgage and three kids, and here we are,” Amanda Sudano Ramirez humorously recalls. Their musical career officially kicked off in 2008 with the release of their self-titled EP. A year later, they tied the knot, and by 2014, they had released their debut album, “Diamonds.”
Amanda, the daughter of the late disco queen Donna Summer and music producer Bruce Sudano, initially found it challenging to step out of her mother’s shadow. However, she was irresistibly drawn to Abner’s storytelling prowess. “He was a great storyteller, and he wrote songs that weren’t just trying to be cool,” she says. Abner, on the other hand, draws inspiration from his father, who he describes as the “ultimate storyteller.” “I thought that was one of my father’s many superpowers, but that’s one that I hoped to emulate,” he shares.
Balancing their music career with family life is a delicate act for JOHNNYSWIM. Their songs often feel like diary entries, reflecting their personal experiences. For instance, their song “Devastating” delves into the complexities of relationships and the lessons learned in therapy, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for challenges rather than seeking immediate solutions.
Their home serves as both a sanctuary and a creative hub. They produce a cooking show, create their own merchandise, and record their podcast, “Songs with Strangers,” all from the comfort of their home. Family is a priority, but so is their artistic expression. Abner notes that there was never any doubt about taking their kids on the road, proudly stating that their son has never missed a show.
With the unwavering support of their family, the couple remains clear about their intentions as musicians. “Ultimately, my goal isn’t to be huge and famous. My goal is to help people. My goal is to build a community that will effect change and for people to feel seen,” Abner explains. Amanda adds that they are comfortable with the idea that their music may not appeal to everyone. “We probably don’t appeal to a lot of people because our music is our music, but the people that it appeals to, we’re meant for,” she says.
The story of JOHNNYSWIM is one of love at first sight, albeit with a few bumps along the way. Abner knew Amanda was the one the moment he saw her, even if it meant losing his date at the time. It took four years for their paths to cross again, and after a series of makeups and breakups, they finally married in 2009. Their self-titled debut EP was released a year earlier, and they have been building a loyal fanbase ever since.
Their first full-length album, “Diamonds,” released in 2014, featured the hit single “Home,” which became the theme song for HGTV’s “Fixer Upper.” Their 2016 follow-up, “Georgica Pond,” included fan favorites like “First Try,” and they have sold out shows around the world. Along the way, they have garnered acclaim from Rolling Stone, NPR, The New York Times, and more.
In early 2017, JOHNNYSWIM began working on their third full-length album, “Moonlight,” amidst professional changes and Amanda’s pregnancy with their second child. They collaborated with GRAMMY® Award-winning producer Malay, who brought a fresh perspective to their music. “All of the signs pointed towards brand new beginnings and brand new starts,” Abner admits. The new environment allowed them to focus on the songs while Malay handled the recording, creating a magical atmosphere that carried through all twelve tracks of the album.
“Moonlight” explores the realities of love, not just the idealized version. “There’s a theme to Moonlight,” Amanda elaborates. “It’s love, but not the ideal or romance of love. It’s all of the things that actually come with loving someone and caring about someone who’s not perfect. There’s tragedy in it. There’s frustration in it. There’s joy in it. That’s Moonlight.”
The album features a range of emotions and experiences, from the fiery anthem “Bridges” to the introspective “Same Old Thing,” which examines the fragility of marriage. “I love putting it last because it’s a reminder this album isn’t about the sweetness of love,” Abner says. “It’s about the reality of love.”
In the end, JOHNNYSWIM emerges stronger than ever, both as a family and as a band. “I’d love for people to hear Moonlight and feel known, seen, and unashamed regardless of where they’re at on the spectrum of romance—whether it’s first fast love, making babies, or in the middle of a dream that’s falling apart,” Abner concludes. Amanda adds, “You can listen to a record and walk away feeling like your spirit is nourished. That’s what I want. I hope it marks a time for you and your family, where you can associate these songs with those special moments.”
Source: CBS News
