Quick Wiki
- Full Name Robert Leroy Johnson
- Birth Date May 8, 1911
- Birth Date May 08, 1911
- Age 113 Years, 10 Months
- Death Date 1938-08-16
- Age At Death 27
- Place Of Death Greenwood, Mississippi
- Birthplace Hazlehurst, Mississippi, U.S.
- Occupation Musician, singer, song writer
- Mother Julia Major Dodds
- Father Noah Johnson
Robert Johnson | Biography
Robert Johnson, born on May 8, 1911, in Mississippi, became a legendary blues performer with classics like 'I Believe I'll Dust My Broom.' He died mysteriously at age 27.
Who is Robert Johnson?
Robert Johnson, born on May 8, 1911, in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, is widely regarded as one of the greatest blues musicians of all time. His career, though tragically brief, has had a lasting impact on the genre. Over the course of just a few years, from 1936 to 1937, Johnson recorded 29 songs, including timeless classics like "I Believe I'll Dust My Broom" and "Sweet Home Chicago." These tracks not only garnered him posthumous acclaim but also influenced countless artists, including icons such as Muddy Waters, the Rolling Stones, and Eric Clapton. Johnson’s unique style and innovative guitar techniques set a benchmark for future generations of musicians.
The mythology surrounding Robert Johnson is as significant as his musical legacy. Among the most enduring tales is that of Johnson's purported bargain with the devil. Renowned blues singer Son House claimed that Johnson, who had once struggled as a guitarist, transformed into a master musician after disappearing for several weeks. Allegedly, he made his way to the crossroads of Highways 49 and 61, where he struck a deal for his exceptional talents. This folklore, while likely exaggerated, encapsulates the mystique that envelops Johnson’s life and work. Tragically, he met an untimely death at the age of 27 on August 16, 1938, believed to be the result of poisoning, adding to the tragic legend of this blues pioneer.
Early Life and Education
Robert Johnson was born on May 8, 1911, in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, into a family deeply rooted in the Southern music tradition. Growing up in an environment that valued musical expression, he was exposed to a diverse array of sounds and styles from an early age. Johnson's early life was marked by instability, as his parents divorced when he was just a child. Following the separation, he was raised by his mother, who played a significant role in shaping his cultural background and early interest in music. This turbulent upbringing fostered a sense of resilience in him, which would later influence his musical journey.
Though Johnson was initially drawn to the harmonica, he soon gravitated toward the guitar—an instrument that would become his lifelong companion. He spent his formative years learning to play and experimenting with various musical styles. Legends surrounding his guitar skills suggest that he was an average player until a mysterious 1930s disappearance transformed his abilities. The tale of his alleged meeting at the crossroads of Highways 49 and 61, where he supposedly made a deal with the devil, remains an enduring part of his mythology, adding an air of mystery to his origins. This combination of early exposure, personal struggle, and legend would eventually shape Johnson into one of the most significant figures in the blues genre.
Career Highlights and Breakthrough in Blues
Robert Johnson, born on May 8, 1911, in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, emerged as a pivotal figure in the blues genre with a brief but influential career. His work from 1936 to 1937 comprised 29 recordings, including timeless classics such as "I Believe I'll Dust My Broom" and "Sweet Home Chicago." These tracks not only exemplified his unique style but also laid the foundation for the blues standards that would inspire countless musicians. Johnson's songwriting and guitar techniques showcased a depth of emotion and artistry, drawing attention to the struggles and joys of African American life during that era.
Despite a lack of widespread recognition during his lifetime, Johnson’s influence began to surface dramatically in the 1960s when his songs were reissued, capturing the interest of a new generation of blues enthusiasts and rock musicians alike. This resurgence highlighted his intricate guitar work and profound lyrical abilities, leading to high-profile covers from artists like Muddy Waters, Eric Clapton, and the Rolling Stones. The intrigue surrounding his life, particularly the legendary tale of a deal with the devil at the crossroads, further cemented his status as a blues mythos and a vital contributor to the evolution of modern music.
Mass Appeal and Continued Influence
Robert Johnson's posthumous acclaim surged during the 1960s, as a new generation of musicians and blues enthusiasts rediscovered his powerful recordings. The reissue of his work captivated audiences and introduced his haunting melodies and intricate guitar work to millions. This renewed interest was further solidified when major artists, including Muddy Waters and Eric Clapton, began recording covers of his songs, such as "I Believe I'll Dust My Broom" and "Sweet Home Chicago." Johnson's influence transcended genres, making a significant impact on rock, jazz, and pop music, and positioning him as a pivotal figure in the evolution of American music.
The legacy of Robert Johnson continues to thrive, driven by the mythos surrounding his life and the enigmatic nature of his music. Documentaries such as "Can't You Hear the Wind Howl?" and "Hellhounds on my Trail" have explored his story, analyzing both his tragic life and remarkable talent. His recordings have sold millions of copies, proving that even decades after his untimely death, Johnson's music resonates with audiences worldwide. Revered as the archetype of the tortured artist, his journey from obscurity to legendary status underscores the enduring power of the blues and its ability to speak to the human experience.
Death and Legacy
Robert Johnson's untimely death at the age of 27 on August 16, 1938, adds to the aura of mystery that surrounds his legacy. He is widely suspected to have fallen victim to deliberate poisoning, possibly stemming from romantic entanglements or rivalries within the blues community. His death, as enigmatic as his life, sparked numerous rumors and folklore, further enhancing the mythos surrounding his character. Despite having only a brief career, his influence on the world of music cannot be overstated, as his recordings became pivotal in the development of the blues genre.
Following his passing, Johnson's contributions to music gained immense recognition, particularly during the 1960s blues revival. His songs, such as "I Believe I'll Dust My Broom" and "Sweet Home Chicago," achieved iconic status, being covered by legendary artists like Muddy Waters and Eric Clapton. Documentaries and films, including "Can't You Hear the Wind Howl?" and "Hellhounds on My Trail," have explored his life and artistry, underscoring the impact of his work and ensuring that Robert Johnson's legacy continues to resonate with generations of musicians and fans alike.
Personal Life: Married Life
Robert Johnson's personal life remains largely obscured by the myths that surround his musical career. He is known to have had at least one notable relationship, which was with a woman named Virginia Travis. Reports suggest that the two were married, although the details of their union are not thoroughly documented. Johnson's tumultuous lifestyle as a traveling musician likely placed strain on his personal relationships, and it remains unclear how much time he spent with Travis. His songs occasionally reflect the heartache and longing associated with love, hinting at the emotional landscapes shaped by his experiences, even if those details about his marriages are sparse.
Moreover, the notion of Johnson's private life was often eclipsed by his musical persona, leading many to focus only on his legendary status as a blues musician. The allure of the "crossroads" myth and his purported dealings with the devil have overshadowed any extensive exploration into his domestic life. As a result, Robert Johnson’s married life is enveloped in ambiguity and intrigue, much like his legacy, which continues to captivate fans and musicians alike. His few documented relationships may provide insights into his character, but they remain a minor facet of the broader narrative centered on his contributions to blues music.
Net Worth and Earning: Salary
Robert Johnson, the iconic figure in the world of blues, remains a poignant testament to the lasting power of music and its artists. Although he did not achieve commercial success during his lifetime, his legacy transcends financial metrics. Today, his music has influenced countless artists across genres, leading to renewed interest and posthumous acclaim that extend his impact. The recorded songs he produced in the late 1930s, notably hits like "I Believe I'll Dust My Broom" and "Sweet Home Chicago," have made him a pivotal figure in shaping the blues genre and have contributed significantly to his posthumous net worth.
While specific figures regarding Robert Johnson's net worth during his lifetime may be difficult to ascertain, they are ironically dwarfed by the millions garnered from the reissues of his works posthumously. The 1960s saw a resurgence of interest in his music, and various compilations released in subsequent decades have sold millions of copies globally. This substantial sales achievement illustrates how Johnson's genius, captured in those 29 songs, has produced enduring financial returns, effectively cementing his status as one of the most influential blues musicians in history. Today, his music is not only a cultural treasure but also a source of revenue for estates and record labels, highlighting the enduring value of musical artistry.
