Mountaindawg music is original "Heartfelt Rock 'n' Roll".
Mtndawg songs have a solid Rock 'n' Roll feel, with a little bit of Pop, Blues, Folk, Reggae, and Americana. Jamming is this Artists forte', as other musicians have said that Joe "Mtndawg" Johnson could play with anybody, and compliment their music.
With easily understood lyrics, and all original, melodic Guitar based music, Mountaindawg is gaining popularity fast. Mtndawg aka Joe Johnson performs both with a band, and Solo/Acoustic. Lyrics are often about serious subjects, yet the songs are uplifting, addictive and dance-able. Live performances are fun filled and memorable, leaving YOU wanting more.

Mountaindawg's mission is sharing heartfelt messages of Love, Peace, and Freedom through his original music. And, he is having a blast doing just THAT! After decades of songwriting, casual performing, recording, and touring, Mountaindawg went International in 2007. 2 NEW Mtndawg CDs will be released on Mtndawgs own indie label "Mutt Records" this year. Both CDs are long overdue, and will be pleasing anxious fans and music lovers for years to come.
Mountaindawg aka Joe Johnson, gets a great deal of his songwriting inspiration from his mountain top home, and its beautiful surroundings. "Dirt Road Studio" overlooks miles of forests and valleys. Some famous things nearby: The Russian River, the Pacific Ocean, Korbel Champagne Vineyards and Sonoma Valley Wine Country.

MOUNTAINDAWG's band leader is

Joe "Mtndawg" Johnson is a singer,songwriter, musician and artist. He has been playing and composing his own music since he was 16 years old. His current project includes him playing Electric & Acoustic Guitars, Mandolin, Resonator (simular to a DoBro) and singing Vocals, in addition to playing some keyboards and percussions once in awhile. Mountaindawg's moving music has a way of touching people, spreading smiles.
In his past, Joe has played Lead Guitar for various bands, including: Feast of Friends (Hard Rock), Nunda Sisters (Melodic Rock). He has also played Mandolin & Lead Guitar in 2 Sonoma County Folk Rock bands, Peggy day & The Gypsy Knights, and Erics Road Band with legendary Dickie Peterson of BLUE CHEER.
Joe "Mountaindawg" Johnson is always billed as Mountaindawg, weather he performs solo, or with others. He performs electric OR acoustic, and has been known to join other Artists onstage now & then. Joe has been performing professionally 16+ years at numerous venues, Festivals, private events.


When MOUNTAINDAWG performs as a band, often included are:


Garth O'Brien on Guitar. Garth is a talented musician, playing either Guitar or Drums in 3 different bands. He & Mountaindawg Joe sometimes perform as a duet, and Garth often joins Mountaindawg as second Guitar and/or Lead Guitar when Mtndawg performs as a full electric band.

Freddie Araiza on Drums. AKA Fast Freddie Dean. Freddies intense drumming innovations help make Mountaindawg music stand out. Freddie has been in professional bands most of his life, including: "UBI", "Taker", "Vanishing Point", "Terror","Jake Richmond Band", "Manny & The Maniacs", "Mountain River", "Peggy Day & The Gypsy Knights" and more.

Erik "Erok" Deste on Bass Guitar. Erok currently plays Bass Guitar in several projects including with International Artist "UBI", and with Sonoma Counties own "Trubel". He often joins Mtndawg onstage as a solid Bass Guitarist with excellent intuition, when Mtndawg performs as a full electric band.

Kelly Johnson on Backup Vocals. Kelly has joined Joe onstage on & off for years, adding her high energy & sweet vocals to the show, she has been Joes' Wife for 13+ years.

Mountaindawg likes to bring up musical guests at his performances, and often surprise the crowd with "who" might show up for a song or two, or to JAM on the spot. In addition, there are performance artists sharing their unique talents at some Mountaindawg events.