Crossroads: The Life and Afterlife of Blues Legend Robert Johnson

If you enjoy the romanticised mythology surrounding Robert Johnson, maybe this isn't for you. The book strips everything that's been said or implied about the man down to what is definitely known. The result of this is that Robert Johnson is even more of a mystery without the tall tales. It's an interesting read, with enough detail about the times in which he lived, and the people around him, to build the thread of his story into a satisfying fullness. Following the story of his influence and music in the decades after his death brings him into the present day, and ties his legacy firmly back to the origins of his music.

The liner notes to the Robert Johnson box set which came out in the 1980's were so exhaustive and complete, there's not a whole lot for this very earnest author (Tom Graves) to add, but he does his best. Mostly, he tries to provide insights to Johnson's personality and dispel some of the mythology around his life, death, and that fateful night at the Crossroads. He claims his modest goal with the book is to create interest in Johnson's music for anyone for whom his book might be an entry point. For others, this might be a lot of rehashed information, but so little is known about Johnson, and his shadow looms so largely, it's worth the dive to explore what can be known...and personally, I'm grateful that mostly mystery remains. All that show more matters is that voice, and the mastery he brings to those guitar frets. show less