Robert Lockwood Jr. may not be as widely known as some other blues legends, but his impact on the genre is undeniable. A highly skilled guitarist, vocalist, and composer, Lockwood bridged the gap between Delta blues and electric urban blues, leaving a legacy that continues to influence musicians today. Here are five fascinating curiosities about this remarkable bluesman.
1. He Was the Only Guitarist Taught Directly by Robert Johnson
One of the most intriguing facts about Robert Lockwood Jr. is his direct connection to the legendary Delta bluesman Robert Johnson. Lockwood’s mother had a romantic relationship with Johnson, who lived with them for a time. As a result, young Lockwood received personal guitar lessons from Johnson—the only person known to have learned directly from the iconic musician. This mentorship deeply shaped Lockwood’s playing style and understanding of the blues.
2. He Helped Define the Chicago Blues Sound
In the 1950s, Lockwood played a crucial role in the emerging Chicago blues scene. He worked with greats like Little Walter, Sonny Boy Williamson II, and Muddy Waters. His guitar work was refined, jazzy, and rhythmically innovative—contributing to a more urban and electric sound that distinguished Chicago blues from its Southern roots. Lockwood’s sophisticated style set him apart from many of his contemporaries.
3. He Was a Key Figure in the King Biscuit Time Radio Show
In the 1940s, Lockwood teamed up with harmonica player Sonny Boy Williamson II on King Biscuit Time, a groundbreaking blues radio show broadcast from Helena, Arkansas. The show played a significant role in popularizing blues across the American South. Lockwood’s steady rhythm guitar and crisp solos were heard by thousands of listeners, helping to expand the reach of the blues genre during its formative years.
4. He Continued Performing Into His 90s
Lockwood’s passion for music never waned. He performed regularly well into his 90s, delivering memorable live shows with energy and grace. Even in his later years, Lockwood’s technique remained sharp, and his deep knowledge of the blues tradition captivated audiences. His remarkable longevity as a performer made him a living bridge between the early Delta blues and the modern era.
5. He Won a Grammy at Age 91
In 2004, at the age of 89, Robert Lockwood Jr. was awarded a Grammy for Best Traditional Blues Album as a featured artist on the compilation Last of the Great Mississippi Delta Bluesmen: Live in Dallas. This late-career recognition was a fitting tribute to a musician who had contributed so much to the blues across more than seven decades. It also made him one of the oldest Grammy recipients in history.
Robert Lockwood Jr. was more than a talented guitarist—he was a vital link in the blues tradition, preserving and evolving the music he had learned firsthand from Robert Johnson. His unique blend of Delta and urban blues continues to inspire new generations of musicians and listeners alike.
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