About Blues Music: Robert Johnson

Born: May 8, 1911

Died: August 16, 1938

Robert Johnson was considered the King of the Delta Blues and the Grandfather of Rock n Roll. He was a singer, songwriter, guitarist and harmonica player. Johnson had little commercial success but was deeply influential, of mythic proportions, including a tale that he sold his soul to the devil at a Mississippi highway to achieve success at the “crossroads.” Johnson influenced Keith Richards, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Fleetwood Mac and many others.

What is Blues Music About According to Robert Johnson: Considered the inventor of the blues, Robert Johnson and his legacy was all about the “feeling” of the blues conveyed to an audience.

How to Gear Up Like Robert Johnson: To play like Robert Johnson, try a Kalamazoo KG-14 flat top, a 1928 Gibson L-1 or Gibson Keb Mo Bluesmaster.

Essential Blues music tracks from Robert Johnson:

Me and the Devil Blues

Hellbound on my Trail

Well Known Covers of Robert Johnson Songs:
Crossroads – Cream

Travelin’ Riverside Blues – Led Zeppelin

Famous for Playing With: Johnny Shines, Henry Townsend