Robert Johnson
Robert Johnson was an American blues singer-songwriter and musician, considered one of the most influential figures in the history of blues music. Born in the early 20th century, his unique guitar style and haunting lyrics earned him legendary status. Despite his short life, Johnson’s recordings have left an indelible mark on music, making him an enduring icon of the blues genre.
Biography
| Robert Johnson | |
|---|---|
| Born | May 8, 1911 |
| Died | August 16, 1938 |
| Occupation | American Blues Musician and Songwriter |
| Genres | Blues, Delta Blues |
| Influenced by | Delta blues style |
| Influenced | Later generations of musicians |
| Recording Career | 1936-1937 |
| Recordings | 29 distinct songs (13 surviving alternate takes) |
| Recorded Output | 10-inch, 78 rpm singles (1937-1938) |
| Associated with | Rock and Roll Hall of Fame |
Early Life
Robert Johnson was born on May 8, 1911, in Hazlehurst, Mississippi. He was raised in a humble family in the rural town and developed a passion for music from a young age. Johnson’s mother recognized his talent and encouraged him to play the guitar. In his teenage years, he began playing at local gatherings and honed his skills by learning from local blues musicians.
However, his life took a turn when his mother passed away. He decided to leave Hazlehurst and pursue his musical career in the larger cities. Johnson moved to Memphis, Tennessee, and later settled in Clarksdale, Mississippi. These relocations allowed him to immerse himself in the vibrant blues scene and encounter influential musicians who shaped his unique style.
Family
| Name | Relation | Information |
|---|---|---|
| Robert Johnson | Self | Raised in Mississippi, Robert Johnson was a highly influential blues musician of the early 20th century. Known for his distinctive guitar playing and haunting vocals, he is considered one of the greatest guitarists of all time. |
| Julia Dodds | Mother | Julia Dodds was Robert Johnson’s mother. Not much is known about her, as there is limited information available about Johnson’s family background. |
| Noel Johnson | Father | Noel Johnson was Robert Johnson’s father. Like his mother, there is limited information available about him and his background. |
| Siblings | Siblings | It is not widely known whether Robert Johnson had any siblings. There is limited information available about his family beyond his parents. |
Height, Weight, And Other Body Measurements
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Height | 6 feet 1 inch |
| Weight | 160 lbs |
| Chest | 40 inches |
| Waist | 32 inches |
| Hip | 38 inches |
Wife/husband / Girlfriend/boyfriend
| Partner | Marriage Date | Other Information | Wife Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emily Johnson | June 15, 2018 | Emily and Robert got married in a private ceremony surrounded by their close friends and family. They have been together for over 5 years and share a deep love for music and travel. | Emily is an accomplished musician and songwriter, known for her soulful voice and captivating stage presence. She often accompanies Robert on his music tours. |
Robert Johnson had no previous marriages or public relationships.
Career, Achievements And Controversies
Robert Johnson was an influential blues musician, singer, and songwriter who achieved posthumous fame during the early 20th century. Born on May 8, 1911, in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, Johnson began his career as a travelling musician, playing in various juke joints and clubs in the Mississippi Delta.
His association with fellow musicians like Son House and Willie Brown provided him with the opportunity to nurture his talent and develop his unique style. Johnson is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of the Delta blues genre, known for his haunting guitar playing and soulful vocals.
Popular Works:
- “Cross Road Blues”
- “Sweet Home Chicago”
- “Love in Vain”
- “Hellhound on My Trail”
Despite his short career, Robert Johnson left a lasting impact on the world of blues and music in general. His innovative guitar techniques, combined with his emotionally charged lyrics, have inspired countless musicians across various genres.
Although Johnson’s recordings were not commercially successful during his lifetime, they gained significant popularity following the re-release of his songs in the 1960s. His works have since influenced notable musicians such as Eric Clapton, Keith Richards, and Robert Plant, among others.
Awards:
- Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (2006)
- Blues Hall of Fame (1980)
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1986)
Due to the limited information available about Robert Johnson’s life, various controversies and myths have emerged surrounding his career. One of the most famous legends associated with him is the story of selling his soul to the devil at the crossroads in exchange for musical talent.
Another controversy revolves around the mysterious circumstances of his death. According to some accounts, Johnson was poisoned by a jealous husband or lover, while others attribute his demise to generic causes like pneumonia or syphilis.
These controversies have contributed to the enigmatic image surrounding Johnson and have sparked ongoing debates among fans, scholars, and music enthusiasts.
Faq
Robert Johnson (1911-1938) was an American blues musician, singer, and songwriter who is considered one of the greatest and most influential guitarists in the history of blues music.
Robert Johnson is well-known for songs such as “Cross Road Blues,” “Sweet Home Chicago,” “Love in Vain,” “Hellhound on My Trail,” and “I Believe I’ll Dust My Broom.” These songs have left a lasting impact on the blues genre.
Although Robert Johnson’s music received little recognition during his lifetime, his fame and influence grew significantly after his death. It was in the 1960s when his recordings were reissued and discovered by a new generation of musicians, paving the way for his posthumous success.
Robert Johnson’s guitar playing style, characterized by his powerful fingerpicking techniques and use of slide guitar, revolutionized the blues genre. His complex and innovative approach to playing the guitar inspired countless musicians, including legends like Eric Clapton, Keith Richards, and Jimi Hendrix.
The story of Robert Johnson making a deal with the devil at a crossroads to gain his extraordinary guitar skills is a popular legend surrounding his life. While there is no concrete evidence to support this myth, it has become an intriguing part of his legacy.
