Mathis, Johnny (1935-...), is an American singer known for his moody, mellow voice and his expressive delivery of love songs. Mathis became one of the most successful vocalists in popular music history. From 1957 to 1963, he recorded a remarkable string of hits, making him one of the wealthiest African Americans in entertainment history. Mathis's success was especially impressive because he gained his fame as a pop singer during a time when rock music was dominating the music industry.