Marathon Pundit: On this day 100 years ago: Blues legend Robert Johnson born

Sunday, May 08, 2011

On this day 100 years ago: Blues legend Robert Johnson born

Eric Clapton called Robert Johnson "the most important blues singer that ever lived."

The delta blues genius was born on this date 100 years ago in Hazelhurst, Mississippi. Clapton has paid homage to Johnson numerous times during his prolific career, most notably in 2004 when he recorded Me and Mr. Johnson.

Central to the story of Johnson is that he sold his soul to the Devil to become the world's greatest bluesman. But it was a true "Devil's bargain." He very well may have gotten his wish, but during his lifetime he played on street corners for tips or at small clubs. He died at the age of 27 after being poisoned by a jealous husband. Johnson recorded just 29 songs--they sold poorly. Only two verified photos of Johnson exist.

Crossroads monument

As for where the transaction with Satan took place, part of the legend is that the deal went down at the crossroads of US Highways 61 and 49 in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Highway 61 was later rerouted to the east of the town, but there is monument at the old crossroads in the center of Clarksdale, which I photographed in 2008.

Of his guitar playing Keith Richards said, "When I first heard [him], I was hearing two guitars, and it took me a long time to realize he was actually doing it all by himself."

Johnson's best known song is "Sweet Home Chicago." Another popular Johnson composition is "Cross Road Blues," which Clapton's Cream covered in 1968.