Organized by MASIMAS LIVE
Oh He Dead is a study in contradictions. The D.C. band sounds as smooth and luxurious as leather, but there’s also a levity, like a feather in flight. They’re not afraid to crack each other up with a crude joke or an impression, and their shows are described as one big hug. Dark and light, pain and joy, the band is best summed up by the origin of their name, coined by frontwoman CJ “Bowlin’” Johnson. When asked what happened to a cheating boy who was shot by his lover in one of her songs, she bluntly replied: “Oh, he dead.” And that’s how a legend is born.
Rooted in Washington, D.C.’s rich tradition of soul, funk, and rock, and built around Johnson’s commanding voice, the band shares a love for groove-forward songwriting. Their sound balances polish with personality —tight musicianship paired with humor, heart, and a willingness to leave rough edges intact.
That chemistry shines brightest onstage. Voted by Niva in 2023 as one of the best live acts in the U.S., years of touring have shaped Oh He Dead into a formidable live act, earning them a loyal following and opportunities to share stages with artists like Allen Stone, The Dip, Devon Gilfillian, Sir Woman, and Brandi Carlile. Their performances are joyful, spontaneous, and rooted in serious musicianship.
Across three studio albums, Oh He Dead has built a catalog that embraces contrast without compromise, moving seamlessly between polished soul-pop and raw, emotionally unfiltered songwriting. Each release reveals a different facet of the band’s identity, united by Johnson’s fearless vocal presence and the group’s undeniable chemistry. Stay tuned for their fourth studio album, coming in 2026.
Standing concert.
