George E. Johnson, a trailblazing Black entrepreneur, is set to release his memoir titled 'Afro Sheen: How I Revolutionized an Industry with the Golden Rule, from Soul Train to Wall Street' on February 3. The book, published by Little, Brown and Company, delves into Johnson's remarkable journey in the business world.
Johnson, now 97 years old, founded Johnson Products Company in 1954, a groundbreaking venture that became the first Black-owned company to be listed on the American Stock Exchange. The company gained widespread recognition for its development of 'Afro Sheen,' a popular consumer product that became iconic in its own right.
In addition to its business success, Johnson Products also made a mark in the entertainment industry by sponsoring the renowned 1970s music show 'Soul Train,' further solidifying Johnson's influence and legacy.
Despite his advanced age, Johnson felt a sudden urge to document his life story through a memoir, a decision that came to him unexpectedly just three years ago. In a statement released by Little, Brown, Johnson revealed that he had a profound realization on a Sunday morning in November 2021, where he felt compelled to share his experiences with the world.
'In that experience, I clearly heard five words: ‘You must tell your story.’ I believed it was the voice of the Lord. I made a 180-degree turn and immediately sought a writer,' Johnson expressed.
Collaborating with author-editor Hilary Beard, Johnson meticulously crafted 'Afro Sheen' to offer readers a glimpse into his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the principles that guided him throughout his career.
The upcoming memoir promises to provide valuable insights into Johnson's groundbreaking achievements, shedding light on his contributions to the business landscape and his enduring impact on the community.
