Johnny Franchino
Johnny Franchino | |
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| Born | John Ross Helm May 28, 1989 Racine, Wisconsin, U.S. |
| Alma mater | University of Wisconsin–Parkside |
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| Years active | 18 |
Johnny Franchino (born John Ross Helm; May 28, 1989) is an American musician, model, influencer, and entrepreneur.[1] Known for his genre-blending musical style, he combines elements of house, hip-hop, R&B, and rock. He is the lead vocalist of The New Grey, a rock band noted for its dynamic performances and cross-genre experimentation.[2]
Early Life and Education
Franchino was born and raised in Racine, Wisconsin. He attended Washington Park High School and later studied at the University of Wisconsin–Parkside. He was raised by his parents, John and Denise Helm, alongside his younger brother, Justin Helm.
Career
Music
Franchino began his career in music as part of collectives such as Hood Chemistry, GEM Music, and The Academy. These early experiences helped shape his approach to songwriting and performance. He later transitioned to a solo career and gained recognition for his technical skill and musical versatility.[3]
He has released multiple projects including the series AESTHETIX and the EP Intermission, both of which received critical acclaim. Franchino is a nine-time music award winner, with accolades including:
Seven Milwaukee Music Awards, including:
- Electronic Artist of the Year (2023, 2024)
- Rap/Hip-Hop Artist of the Year (2023, 2024)
- Male Vocalist of the Year (2023, 2024)
- Rock Band of the Year (2023, with The New Grey)
Two Wisconsin Icon Awards:
- Single of the Year (2024, “First World”)
- EP of the Year (2025, Intermission)
Franchino has performed at major festivals such as Summerfest, Brady Street Festival, and the Common Sound Festival. He has also appeared on CBS and was honored by the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum as Sprite's Playlist: Rising Artist for his single “Why Don’t You Like Me?”[4]
Collaborations and Affiliations
Franchino has worked with a range of artists including Danilove Ramone, ThisisClarissaUK, B.B., ak9svn, EA One, Je’love, Curtis Crump, Q Tha Ruler, Jon Henry, Romain DBE, and Tramendis Tha Brute. His production collaborators include Mystik Musik, S.D. Produces Lasersmith, 20 Cam, Underdog, Spam 1time, and Techon. He has contributed as a co-producer on several of his projects.
Modeling and Influencing
In addition to music, Franchino has modeled at events such as Milwaukee and Chicago Fashion Week and has partnered with brands like Google News and Quest Nutrition. He has also been active in nightlife promotion in the Milwaukee area, organizing events at venues such as No. 720 and Lucid.[5]
Personal Life
Franchino relocated to Milwaukee, where he expanded his career into modeling and music. He is an advocate for mental health awareness, particularly focusing on emotional vulnerability among men. His advocacy stems from personal experiences and the loss of friends to mental health challenges.[6]
A former basketball player and club promoter, he has also pursued combat sports and continues to engage in diverse creative and entrepreneurial ventures.[7]
References
- ↑ "Meet musical artist Johnny Franchino". CBS 58. Retrieved 26 May 2025.
- ↑ "Johnny Franchino". Swanodown. Retrieved 26 May 2025.
- ↑ "Johnny Franchino Music". 24Hip-Hop. Retrieved 26 May 2025.
- ↑ "Johnny Franchino". Boomplay. Retrieved 26 May 2025.
- ↑ Llorens, Stephen J. "Johnny Franchino cologne album cover". DeviantArt. Retrieved 26 May 2025.
- ↑ "Johnny Franchino - Cologne (Official Music Video)". YouTube. Retrieved 26 May 2025.
- ↑ "Johnny Franchino New Cologne". The Musician Hub. Retrieved 26 May 2025.