If you’ve been dreaming of ditching the rat race to live life on your own terms, perhaps you should look to Ian Johnson – otherwise known as Arrested Youth – for inspiration.


On Sept. 27th the singer/songwriter released his debut LP, FEAR, a searing, nine-track album dedicated the youth of the 21st century. Johnson considers himself part of a “new alternative” class. Deeply influenced by acts like Kid Cudi and The Red-Hot Chili Peppers, Arrested Youth found a refreshing way to channel his frustrations towards a series of social issues faced by our generation with his defiant voice.


“The album reflects our state of mind, growing up in a world controlled by social media, the press, men¬¬tal illness, violence, and extreme uncertainty,” shares Johnson. “We need to look within ourselves to understand who we’ve become as a society.”


Born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, Johnson began writing lyrics at the age of 15. In 2016, he graduated from Indiana University with a triple major in business, and took his shot at the American dream by accepting a coveted job in Anheuser-Busch’s’ Global Management Program. Within eight months, he was offered a promotion and a raise that would require 60+ hour workweeks. Johnson turned down the offer to pursue music full-time.


“Working in corporate America was a struggle,” shares Johnson. “I found myself waking up every day feeling like a prisoner. I started writing music again as an outlet to express my frustrations.”