Johnson is a retired Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) teacher who continues to work as a substitute teacher for MPS. He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in education and community human services at the University of Wisconsin­Oshkosh. He graduated from Milwaukee Lincoln High School.

For over 35 years Ras Joel has hosted reggae music programs on the Milwaukee airwaves and on the internet.

Ras Joel started his radio career hosting Exodus Reggae show on WYMS 89 fm from 1978-1982. In 1985 he worked with fraternity brother Sam Henley who made WNOV 860am a 24 hour radio station. I worked the night shift at WNOV 860am from 1985-2008 off and on.

Ras Joel and Sam Henley produce and promoted reggae international artist such as Third World, Burning Spear, Andrew Tosh, Mutabaruka, Michael Rose, Yellowman, Jimmy Cliff, Wailers Band, Israel Vibration, Sister Carol and many other reggae artist at shows in Madison, WI and Milwaukee, WI.