Robert Johnson, for a variety of reasons, was America’s first true rock star. A Delta blues pioneer, Johnson inspired countless musicians in the past century, and, having died young at the age of 27, was one of the first to cast a dark shadow over the infamously cursed number. But perhaps most incredible of all, long before heavy metal bands began singing about Satan, a myth arose that Johnson was given his musical abilities via a Faustian bargain of his own.
While living on a plantation in Mississippi, Johnson was reportedly visited by the Devil himself, who tuned Johnson’s guitar and strummed a few tunes before giving it back to Johnson along with exceptional musical skills, in exchange for his immortal soul. Later details, like the meeting happening at the “crossroads”, were added later. There is, of course, no evidence that it happened, and Johnson’s song “Cross Road Blues,” which some have attributed to being inspired by the supposed soul sale, is more likely about hitchhiking. Furthermore, the story is one that’s been repeated in various forms of folklore and literature. Nonetheless, this is easily the most badass rock ‘n’ roll urban legend you’re likely to hear.
Source: https://www.treblezine.com/
No comments:
Post a Comment