Released in 2021, Genius: Aretha traced the Queen of Soul’s rise with Cynthia Erivo in the lead, interweaving musical performance and civil rights history. Dondraico Johnson’s choreography emphasized authenticity and restraint, designing movement that honored gospel roots while elevating the stage presence of each performance. His work earned an Emmy nomination, underscoring the cultural and creative impact of his contribution. The result was a powerful embodiment of Aretha’s spirit, blending story and song into sequences that carried both cultural weight and emotional resonance.