2012 Thrift Store Find Leads to Posthumous Acclaim for Vietnam Veteran Johnnie Frierson's Lost Music

Memphis, Tennessee – A collection of homemade cassette tapes, recorded by Vietnam War veteran Johnnie Frierson, has garnered posthumous recognition following their discovery in a Memphis thrift store in 2012. The tapes, containing gospel-inspired soul songs, were recorded by Frierson in the 1990s, offering a deeply personal glimpse into his life and struggles. Frierson, who passed away in 2010, two years before the discovery, battled post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stemming from his service.

The serendipitous find was made by music collector Jameson Sweiger, who brought the unique recordings to the attention of Light in the Attic Records. The Seattle-based reissue label, known for unearthing forgotten artists, subsequently released Frierson's album, "Have You Been Good to Yourself," in 2016. This release was made possible with the involvement of Frierson's daughter, Keesha.

Johnnie Frierson was a Memphis native with a rich musical background, having been involved with Stax Records in the 1960s alongside his sister, Mary Frierson Cross, also known as Wendy Rene. His early career saw him contribute to the vibrant soul scene before his draft into the U.S. Army in 1970 for the Vietnam War. This experience profoundly affected him, leading to lifelong struggles with PTSD.

After his military service, Frierson largely stepped away from the mainstream music industry, working various jobs as a mechanic, carpenter, and teacher. He continued to create music, however, recording songs at home on cassette tapes and selling them locally at corner stores and gospel festivals. These recordings, made in the 1990s, were a therapeutic outlet for Frierson, particularly after the tragic death of his son.

The reissued album, "Have You Been Good to Yourself," features seven intimate tracks that reflect Frierson's spiritual journey and personal hardships. Critics have praised the album for its raw honesty and soulful depth, offering a powerful testament to an artist who found solace and expression in music despite his challenges. The posthumous release has allowed a new generation of listeners to discover Frierson's unique voice and poignant message.