A Deal at the Devil’s Crossroads
I hear you're looking to make a deal...
In the sultry heat of a Mississippi summer night, young Robert Johnson trudged along a lonely dirt road. His fingers, calloused but clumsy, fumbled over the strings of a battered guitar. Frustration etched deep lines on his face as he approached the crossroads where Highway 61 met Highway 49.
The moon hung low, casting eerie shadows across the desolate intersection. Robert paused, remembering the whispered tales of deals made with the devil at this very spot. Desperate for the musical prowess that eluded him, he closed his eyes and muttered a prayer—or perhaps a curse.
A chill wind stirred, carrying the scent of sulfur. When Robert opened his eyes, a tall, dark figure stood before him, eyes gleaming like embers in the night. "I hear you're looking to make a deal, boy," the stranger drawled, his voice smooth as aged whiskey.
Robert's heart raced, but he stood his ground. "I want to play the blues like no one's ever played before," he said, his voice barely a whisper.
The stranger's smile was all teeth and shadows. "And what will you give in return?"
Without hesitation, Robert replied, "My soul."
A laugh like distant thunder rolled across the crossroads. The stranger took Robert's guitar, tuned it with inhuman speed, and handed it back. "Play," he commanded.
As Robert's fingers touched the strings, music poured forth—raw, powerful, and hauntingly beautiful. The crossroads echoed with the birth of a new blues, a sound that would change music forever.
When dawn broke, Robert Johnson was alone at the crossroads, his guitar humming with otherworldly energy. He set off down the road, leaving behind the ordinary man he once was, now a legend in the making—the king of the Delta blues who had traded his soul for musical genius at the devil's crossroads.
Who is Robert Johnson?
If you’ve never heard of Robert Johnson, perhaps you have heard of his immediate proteges:
Robert Lockwood
Johnny Shines
Muddy Waters
Howlin’ Wolf
The Rolling Stones credit his music with a profound impact on their songwriting.
and the list goes on…
Yes, his legend is riddled with historical facts. The only thing that we can’t prove?
How he gained his incredible skill with no instruction and in such a short period.
A Mississippi Legend
Born in 1911 in Mississippi, Johnson's early life is shrouded in mystery. However, it’s clear that he was deeply influenced by the Delta blues musicians of his time, including Son House and Skip James. Johnson's unique blend of guitar playing, soulful vocals, and evocative storytelling set him apart.
The Recordings
Johnson's recording career was brief but prolific. He recorded a total of 29 songs in 41 takes in 1936 and 1937. His music was primarily recorded in a rural setting, capturing the essence of the Delta blues. Songs like "Crossroads," "Sweet Home Chicago," and "Hellhound on My Trail" have become classics of the genre.
The Legend Grows
Despite the initial commercial failure of his recordings, Johnson's music gained recognition in the 1960s. His influence on British blues-rock bands like The Rolling Stones and Cream was profound. The release of the compilation album "The Complete Recordings" in 1990 solidified Johnson's status as a legendary figure in American music.
A Mysterious End
Robert Johnson's life was cut short in 1938 at the age of 27. The circumstances surrounding his death remain somewhat mysterious, with allegations of poisoning…but strong rumors of a supernatural pact circulating.
Regardless of the truth, Johnson's legacy lives on through his timeless music.
Where is the Devil’s Crossroads?
No one truly knows the location of a legend…but there are 2 commonly accepted sites where people think Mr. Johnson would have had his midnight encounter.
📍🧳
Clarksdale, Mississippi (easiest one to get to and near the Delta Blues Museum) 1.5 hours south of Memphis, TN
The consensus is that this is the location
Rosedale, Mississippi (intersection of Highway 1 and Highway 8)
Modern Covers of Robert Johnson Songs
Muddy Waters cover
Led Zepplin sample
Eric Clapton cover
Love in Vain Cover
Rolling Stones
Robert Johnson
Very interesting story and very well told. Not many can tell a story like you two. I have listened to his music. Such an amazing musician. Died way to early.
Super fascinating story and so well written! Thank you!