Tommy Johnson is one of the most legendary figures in the early blues scene. His haunting voice, intricate guitar playing, and mysterious life have fascinated blues enthusiasts for generations. Here are five intriguing facts about this influential musician:
1. The Original “Crossroads” Myth?
While Robert Johnson is most often associated with the legend of selling his soul at the crossroads, Tommy Johnson had a similar tale about himself. According to his brother LeDell Johnson, Tommy claimed he had made a pact with the devil to gain exceptional musical talent. This story predates the more famous Robert Johnson version and has led some to believe Tommy may have been the true originator of the crossroads myth in blues lore.
2. A Unique and Haunting Vocal Style
Tommy Johnson’s voice set him apart from other Delta blues musicians. He had a remarkable falsetto singing style, which he used to great effect in songs like Cool Drink of Water Blues and Big Road Blues. His vocal delivery was emotional, eerie, and highly influential, inspiring later blues and rock musicians.
3. A Life Marked by Excess
Johnson was known for his wild lifestyle, particularly his struggles with alcoholism. He was notorious for drinking Sterno, a type of cooking fuel, when he couldn’t afford liquor. He would strain the fuel through a cloth and drink the resulting liquid, a practice that was unfortunately common among impoverished musicians of the time.
4. Influence on Future Blues and Rock Artists
Though he recorded only a handful of songs, Tommy Johnson’s impact on music was significant. His song Big Road Blues introduced the phrase “big road” as a metaphor for travel and hardship, influencing later blues songs. His guitar work and vocal style also left a lasting impression on musicians such as Howlin’ Wolf and even later rock bands who sought to capture the raw energy of Delta blues.
5. A Mysterious and Tragic End
Tommy Johnson’s later years were shrouded in mystery. Despite his musical talent, he never found widespread commercial success and continued to struggle with poverty and addiction. He passed away in 1956, reportedly due to a heart attack. His legacy, however, remains alive through the recordings he left behind and the myths that continue to surround his name.
Tommy Johnson’s influence on the blues is undeniable, and his music continues to captivate listeners with its raw power and haunting beauty. Whether through his unique vocal style, his legendary storytelling, or his tragic life, he remains one of the most fascinating figures in blues history.
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