Born Donn Johnson in Lexington, Kentucky during the mid 70’s, Donnie was raised in Atlanta, GA and came from a very religious household. As both of his parents were ministers, Donnie began directing the church choir at an early age. As a young adult, he expanded his musical horizons, and became influenced by such gospel artists as The Clark Sisters, The Winans, Commissioned and Mahalia Jackson, in addition to soul and R&B masters like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and Aretha Franklin.