Johnny Hastings
Rapid City, SD · 1967 Gibson J-50
“I'm faded like a ghost, trying to make the most out of scaring people into loving me”
Johnny Hastings is a powerhouse blues guitarist hailed as one of South Dakota's brightest rising musicians. He has recently begun his journey as a songwriter, won the Wild West Songwriters Festival in 2025, and released his debut album, Older, earlier this year.
Born and raised in the Black Hills, Johnny first picked up the guitar at fourteen, inspired by the sounds of Eric Clapton and B.B. King. With just $100 he had saved, he bought his first guitar — a Squier Mini Strat — and never looked back. By the time he was a teenager, Johnny was already playing in local bars, writing original music, and developing his signature, soul-drenched style.
After honing his craft at the Los Angeles College of Music, Johnny returned home to Rapid City, where he continues to live and breathe music — captivating crowds at venues across the region.
The record
On file
- Hometown
- Rapid City, SD
- Instrument
- 1967 Gibson J-50
- Influences
- Jackson Browne, The Beatles
- Biggest achievement
- Playing with Buddy Guy
- Dream collab
- Jimi Hendrix
- Fun fact
- He had his first Snickers bar at thirty.
For press & bookers
In the round
Invitational record
The call sheet