RJ

Full Name and Common Aliases


Robert Leroy Johnson

Birth and Death Dates


May 8, 1911 - August 16, 1938

Nationality and Profession(s)


American, Musician (Blues Singer/Guitarist)

Early Life and Background


Robert Johnson was born in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, on May 8, 1911. His early life remains somewhat of a mystery, with accounts suggesting he spent his childhood in various locations throughout the southern United States. Little is known about his family or upbringing before he began performing as a musician. Johnson's musical talents are said to have been largely self-taught, with influences from blues musicians such as Son House and Charlie Patton.

Major Accomplishments


Robert Johnson's music had a profound impact on the development of blues and rock 'n' roll genres. His unique playing style and emotional delivery helped shape the sound of American popular music in the mid-20th century. Despite his relatively short career, which spanned only four years before his death at age 27, Johnson recorded an impressive collection of songs that would become cornerstones of blues music.

Notable Works or Actions


Johnson's most famous recordings include "Cross Road Blues," "Hellhound on My Trail," and "Sweet Home Chicago." These songs showcased his mastery of the guitar and his ability to convey intense emotions through music. Johnson's performances were said to have a hypnotic effect on audiences, drawing listeners in with his raw energy and authenticity.

Impact and Legacy


Robert Johnson's influence can be heard in numerous musicians who followed in his footsteps, including Eric Clapton, Keith Richards, and Bob Dylan. His songs continue to inspire new generations of artists, and their enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless power of blues music. Johnson's legacy extends beyond his own recordings, as he helped pave the way for future American musical styles.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Robert Johnson is widely quoted and remembered for his pivotal role in shaping the course of blues and rock 'n' roll history. His innovative playing style, emotional delivery, and authentic performances continue to captivate audiences today. As a musician who achieved greatness despite facing numerous challenges during his lifetime, Johnson's story serves as an inspiration to artists and music enthusiasts alike.

Quotes by Robert Johnson

If there’s something I can do and I feel it should be done, I just want to do it. I just don’t want to leave it undone because I’ll sit back and say, why didn’t I do that? Why didn’t I start that business?
"
If there’s something I can do and I feel it should be done, I just want to do it. I just don’t want to leave it undone because I’ll sit back and say, why didn’t I do that? Why didn’t I start that business?
Actually, I guess I shouldn’t be so hard on myself. 2:23:11 is a very good time – a very good time for a woman that is.
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Actually, I guess I shouldn’t be so hard on myself. 2:23:11 is a very good time – a very good time for a woman that is.
Nothing will see us through the age we’re entering but high consciousness, and that comes hard. We don’t have a good, modern myth yet, and we need one.
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Nothing will see us through the age we’re entering but high consciousness, and that comes hard. We don’t have a good, modern myth yet, and we need one.
It’s not too difficult to get the skeletons out of the closet with people, but to get the gold out is a different matter. That is therapy. Psychology is the Art of finding the gold of the spirit.
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It’s not too difficult to get the skeletons out of the closet with people, but to get the gold out is a different matter. That is therapy. Psychology is the Art of finding the gold of the spirit.
Whenever I see an opportunity and a chance to change something, I go at it and I lay out all the facts to everybody. And when I come to this space, I’m going to come with talent, I’m going to come with focus. And I’m going to do the job as competitively as the next guy.
"
Whenever I see an opportunity and a chance to change something, I go at it and I lay out all the facts to everybody. And when I come to this space, I’m going to come with talent, I’m going to come with focus. And I’m going to do the job as competitively as the next guy.
Don’t ever knock a bottle out of my hand.
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Don’t ever knock a bottle out of my hand.
If you can’t be happy at the prospect of lunch, you are unlikely to be happy about anything.
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If you can’t be happy at the prospect of lunch, you are unlikely to be happy about anything.
A man will treat a woman almost exactly the way he treats his own interior feminine. In fact, he hasn’t the ability to see a woman, objectively speaking, until he has made some kind of peace with his interior woman.
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A man will treat a woman almost exactly the way he treats his own interior feminine. In fact, he hasn’t the ability to see a woman, objectively speaking, until he has made some kind of peace with his interior woman.
History has always been a series of pendulum swings, but the individual doesn’t have to get caught in that.
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History has always been a series of pendulum swings, but the individual doesn’t have to get caught in that.
Believe in yourself and have confidence that you can compete against all odds. Have a vision of what you’d like to accomplish and be able to articulate that vision.
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Believe in yourself and have confidence that you can compete against all odds. Have a vision of what you’d like to accomplish and be able to articulate that vision.
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