Johan Lenox Is Building His Own World at Full Speed
There’s a certain ease that comes when a conversation feels less like an interview. That’s exactly how our time with Johan Lenox felt. With his new album FULL SPEED NOWHERE , the discussion was thoughtful which mirrors the emphatic energy of the album. It’s an exciting and dynamic project worth every listen.
For those who are not familiar with his work, Johan’s catalog is very extensive, working with the likes of Kanye West, Snoh Aalegra, Big Sean, Teyana Taylor and Nas amongst many more major names.
You can view his Apple Music “The Producers” Playlist by clicking here.
This new release was made with intention and it became clear that Johan is in a moment of real confidence.
During our conversation, Johan spoke openly about the experiences that have defined his career long before his name began circulating. He reflected on the path that led him here, one rooted deeply in classical music as an incredible composer and producer.
He’s now in the midst of a new chapter of his career, adding film scoring to his résumé and already being a part of a movie generating major buzz, winning awards at the Cannes Film Festival, and leaving a lasting impact just as he has for so many years.
Classical music remains the foundation of his ultimate understanding. Johan described it as the influence that continues to guide his approach. It’s a thorough line you can feel across FULL SPEED NOWHERE. Those years spent honing his craft behind the scenes has shaped his perspective on becoming a well rounded artist.
Another large component of his longevity comes from collaboration, something he talked about with genuine appreciation. His relationships with artists such as Ant Clemons, 070 Shake, Kacy Hill, and KayCyy have grown into lasting friendships, built on trust and a shared vision to create a cohesive sound.
What made this conversation especially memorable was how much personality Johan showed. It was fun, insightful, and refreshing. We walked away with a deeper understanding of who he is beyond the credits while also peeling the layers back on an artist who has been a major contributor. He made it clear to us though that he has so much more to accomplish.
FULL SPEED NOWHERE is an album that truly stands on its own amongst an array of releases in 2025. The intrigue is real which makes Johan Lenox a bright spot in this age of music.
His interview with Alex Cherry and Novice Principles is available below.
Johan Lenox Interview
Cherry: We have a very special guest today. Coming off a new album, Full Speed Nowhere, is Johan Lenox. Welcome to Novice Principles.
Johan: Thank you for having me.
Cherry: I want to congratulate you on the new project. Since we’re around the holidays, how’s your mental been?
Johan: It’s been cool. Releasing music is the least fun part of it because of the logistical piece, and it can cloud the joy of the actual music. I feel really good having the album out. It’s been a long process to finish it. I feel really happy knowing that it’s done and am glad people are liking it. The actual release process is stressful.
Cherry: Are you an artist that moves on to the next project after one releases?
Johan: I listened to [the album] the day it dropped. I’m actually doing a live version of Full Speed Nowhere that will come out next year, so because of that, I’m spending a lot more time with the songs to figure out how to put it together. It’s like a new version, and it’s cool because I’m still living within this world.
Cherry: It’s got to be a great feeling getting to travel the world with 070 Shake for The Petrichor Tour and being able to perform this new music live.
Johan: When I did that tour at the beginning of the year, the album was half done. I approached it differently. I finished 7 songs, we went on tour and then finished the album. It was a cool process because I got to see how people reacted to those few songs before adding more ideas and finishing the rest.
Cherry: Let’s take a step back for a minute. I wanted to discuss the influence classical has had in your life and shaping you as a musician.
Johan: I’ve been trying to find the same thing my entire life. As a kid, I was writing and composing classical music for orchestras and choirs. I came out of that world and wanted to find ways to bridge the gaps between my friends, culture, and the things I liked into one world of music.
Johan: I throw this party in LA sometimes called Worlds Burning where I have rappers and singers performing with string ensembles. Again, it’s getting people in the mode of exposing artists to another world of music.
Cherry: What would you say is the biggest lesson you’ve learned about yourself thus far?
Johan: What’s interesting about this kind of music is you make something that communicates with people and lives in a world where music is a moving concept. Everyone wants to talk about music and the feeling you give off.
I don’t see myself as an introvert. I have a large community but when it comes to music, my interests are so wide that I’ve never stuck with one scene.
Cherry: The features on your album are artists you’ve worked extensively with. What are those relationships like?
Johan: This time around, in terms of features, I wanted to put people on the album I’ve enjoyed and have worked with for a long time. With this one, someone like Kacy Hill and [070] Shake I’ve known forever. I wanted to go back to people that are friends and don’t necessarily fit into a box.
Cherry: With the project being out, how would you sum up your year?
Johan: You’re catching me at an interesting time. The first three months, I was touring, then traveling with Shake to festivals over the summer. The other thing that happened this year is I did a film scoring feature for a movie called The Plague. We got nominated and awarded at the Cannes Festival. The movie is coming out, so now we’ve been campaigning and going to Oscar events. I’m jumping around more than I have in a long time while still promoting the album.
I’m least happiest when there’s not enough going on in my life. It’s an interesting time right now and I feel good. The next year should be interesting.
Cherry: What do you do outside of music when you do have free time?
Johan: I have a few hobbies, but there are two things I am hardcore about. I like mixing cocktails, not too sweet, but a really good drink like a Negroni. That’s a nice thing for me because it’s fun and I’m passionate about it. There’s no pressure with this. My other hobby is knowing and riding roller coasters. There’s a whole community I’ve made friends with.
Cherry: Is there anything you haven’t accomplished yet that you’d still like to do?
Johan: There’s so much. I’m very much a collaborative artist, but I still want to build enough momentum to have a headline tour. I want to get an EGOT eventually. My long-term vision of this world is having my own show that changes the world with my version of classical music.
