Johnny Otis was born John Veliotes in Vallejo, California, December 28, 1921. He was the son of Greek immigrant parents. Otis was a youngster when he made a conscious break with the white world, he has been Black ever since. Otis is a pioneer of Rhythm and Blues.

A musician, Otis debuted in 1939 with the West Oakland House Rockers. In 1941 he left Berkley and toured with several bands and finally settled in Los Angeles. He worked with a number of other bands before he headlined his own.

Otis with his west coast sound, discovered many talented artist. Esther Phillips, Jackie Wilson, Etta James are just a couple of the many that Otis discovered. He went to perfoem with many others. During the 50's Otis had songs in the top ten on Billboard's list and had one of the hottest musical attractions in the Black America. The California R&B; Caravan was a hot ticket.

Otis also was part owner of the "Barrelhouse" night spot in L.A. Otis went on to radio, he became one of the most popular radio DeeJays in southern California. From his radio show, it led to his weekly televison show, "The Johnny Otis Show" lasted eight years in Los Angeles. Otis is a prominent figure in the history of R&B.; Otis has been inducted to the Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame and the Rock&Roll; Hall of Fame.