With the recent release of the Slash (and friends) album 'Orgy of the Damned', it brought forward some fantastic Blues covers. Along this vein we will explore great and most common covers of Blues songs.

This is not a traditional episode but is a tribute to the late John Mayall whom we lost this week. We will cover his amazing impact on the Blues (specifically the British Blues).

This episode will cover the historical record of the Blues through a review of the visionaries that saw the importance of this part of American History

The very long part 2 of our exploration into Women of Blues Music

Episode 4 covers the early women of the blues and the incredible impact they had on the genre

The 12-bar blues is the canvas for so many music genres, shaping their harmonic structures, rhythms, and emotional expression.

Robert Johnson is the obvious starting point for any discussion of the blues. From the crossroads, his true story and the his legend are embedded in so much of the blues and other forms of entertainment. This is being released on the his birthday - May 8th and is the start of our journey

Further information and links on Robert Johnson

1. Life and Career:

• Robert Leroy Johnson was born on May 8, 1911, in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, USA. His landmark recordings in 1936 and 1937 display a combination of singing, guitar skills, and songwriting talent that has influenced later generations of musicians.
• Although his recording career spanned only seven months, he is recognized as a master of the blues, particularly the Delta blues style, and as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.
• The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame describes him as perhaps “the first ever rock star” 1.
• Learn more: Robert Johnson - Wikipedia

1. Songs and Legacy:

• Johnson wrote and recorded 29 songs in Dallas and San Antonio from 1936 to 1937. These include classics like “I Believe I’ll Dust My Broom” and “Sweet Home Chicago,” which have become blues standards.
• His songs have been covered by artists such as Muddy Waters, Elmore James, the Rolling Stones, and Eric Clapton 2.
• Explore: Biography - Robert Johnson

1. Legends and Mysterious Details:

• Johnson’s poorly documented life and death have given rise to intriguing legends. One of the most famous is that he sold his soul to the devil at a local crossroads in return for musical success.
• His music had a small but influential following during his lifetime and in the decades after his death.
• Musicologist Alan Lomax played a crucial role in bringing Johnson’s work to a wider audience through the album “King of the Delta Blues Singers” 1.
• Discover more: Britannica - Robert Johnson

1. Listen to His Music:

• Apple Music Playlist

• Spotify Playlist