Johnny Grabowski
Oral History Information
Johnny Grabowski was just four years old when he began playing his father’s piano by ear. He took lessons a few years later and in middle school joined the choir. Music has always been a strong part of Johnny’s life, so it didn't surprise anyone when he studied electronic music in college while playing and writing songs on the side. After working in the men’s clothing retail world in Texas, he jumped at the chance to work in music retail back in 1997. The Mars Music chain had just opened its fifth store in Houston and Johnny was eager to grow with the company. Although the chain later went out of business, it was a wonderful experience for Johnny, who by this time was hooked on helping fellow musicians find the perfect instrument. In 2003, Johnny was hired by Sweetwater Sound where he became the Merchandising Director and later the Director of Purchasing. Johnny later became Sweetwater’s Senior Director of Digital Merchandising, which brings together his passion and his background.