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From the flightline to center stage

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Dani Pacheco
  • 315th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
CHARLESTON AFB, S.C. --  "Give me the beat boys, and free my soul. I want to get lost in your rock and roll, and drift away."

The 1970s Dobie Gray classic, a literal anthem for Staff Sergeant Jayson Johnston could be heard pumping through the speakers at the Windjammer on the Isle of Palms. The Shreveport, La., native and his band Whiskey and Perfume performed at the coastal venue Jan. 19.

"Music is my way of getting away from it all," said Johnston. "It's such a release."

Johnston, an air reserve technician with the 315th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron during the week, performs his traditional reserve duties on the weekends, as well as, actively pursuing his music career.

"Whenever I get the chance, I go out, try to network and hand out CDs of the band, just put our name out there," said Johnston.

Johnston formed Whiskey and Perfume in 2000 when he returned from touring with the Tops in Blue, an entertainment unit that showcases the talent of Air Force members through music and dance worldwide.

Since forming in 2000, Johnston and the guys of Whiskey and Perfume have set the local music scene on fire playing at various venues across the Lowcountry.

"We've opened up for big-name, country stars like Tracy Lawrence, Mark Wills, and Jason Aldean," said Johnston.

The band has also submitted a promo package for the Heritage Bike Rally scheduled for April at the Ladson fair grounds and is hoping the gig comes though, said Jerry Ray, Whiskey and Perfume bass player.

Johnston agrees that scheduling such a huge local event, known to book bands like Hank Williams Jr., Lynyrd Skyrnyrd and Kid Rock, could potentially get his band recognized.

"The Heritage Bike Rally would be the biggest thing my band has ever gotten," said Johnston.

The 315th Airlift Wing has also recognized Johnston's vocal skills.

He was recently presented with the wing Historical Coin number 42 by Col. Tim Wrighton, 315th AW commander. Johnston received the accolade for volunteering his time to support numerous wing events such as retirements, changes of command, award ceremonies, the Air Force Ball and various other events both on and off base by singing the National Anthem.

Johnston said the recognition he received from the wing was a great surprise.

However, it is not a great surprise to Johnston's co-workers here at Charleston AFB.

"Anything Jayson commits himself to, be it work, school or his music, he seeks to do the best job in whatever endeavor he pursues. He is a true professional," said Master Sgt. John Kornuta, 315th AMXS.

On top of Johnston's responsibilities to the military and his band, he is also attending school full time.

"I am graduating in May from Embry Riddle with a Bachelor of Science in technical management," said Johnston.

No matter how many obligations Johnston may rack up along the way, music will always be his true passion.

"I love playing music and I want to continue doing this for as long as am physically able," said Johnston.