New Bedford Singer Marlena Johnson Opens for Gwen Stefani in Las Vegas

Embarking on a remarkable journey from New Bedford to the grandeur of the Las Vegas stage, Marlena Johnson is hitting huge milestones.

The local singer/songwriter recently performed at the famous Wynn Hotel in Vegas as one of the opening acts for none other than Gwen Stefani.

No doubt, it was the highlight of Johnson's budding career and the perfect ending to 2023.

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Johnson moved from the Whaling City to Sin City last year to audition for gigs and make a name for herself. Talent runs in the family.

"I've been working diligently to network and build connections and I was fortunate enough to have booked this gig," Johnson said. "I didn’t actually meet Gwen; a couple of other singers and myself just opened for her. I watched a bit of her performance afterwards and it was complete nostalgia because Gwen was my childhood. She’s gorgeous and energetic and an icon. I’m extremely happy and proud to have been there. It was the perfect way to top off the year."

This massive production was a mighty milestone for Johnson as she performed beside singers Seth Trotter and Laura Wright-Chesmark

While still new to Vegas, Johnson is taking on 2024 with persistence.

"I’m going to keep putting in the work, auditioning, castings and networking," Johnson said. "This gig was so important because it allowed me to work with people in town and show my face. More opportunities will come from this and it truly is only the beginning. I was born for this and moving out here was the best decision I could have made for my career."

Johnson said she won’t stop until T-Pain or Snoop Dogg contact her for a feature or until she's singing alongside icons on the world's biggest stages. For now, you can catch Johnson at Planet Hollywood performing in “Vegas! The Show” on Friday and Saturday nights.