Robert Johnson is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential blues musicians of all time. Though he only recorded a small number of songs in the late 1930s, his music has had an enormous impact on the development of blues and rock music over the decades that followed. Johnson’s songs were marked by his distinctive voice, intricate guitar playing, and deeply personal lyrics that explored themes of love, loss, and the struggle for survival in a difficult world. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best Robert Johnson songs of all time, taking into account their musical and historical significance, as well as their enduring popularity among fans of the blues. From classic songs like “Cross Road Blues” and “Sweet Home Chicago” to lesser-known gems like “Hellhound on My Trail” and “They’re Red Hot,” we will examine the unique qualities that make each of these songs a masterpiece of the blues genre.
1. Cross Road Blues
“Cross Road Blues” is a legendary blues song by Robert Johnson that was recorded in 1936. The song is shrouded in mystery and has become an iconic piece of blues folklore. Johnson sings about being at a crossroads at midnight, trying to flag down a ride to get away from his troubles. The lyrics are full of symbolic imagery, referencing the devil, a woman who has done him wrong, and the idea of selling one’s soul to the devil in exchange for success. The song’s haunting melody and Johnson’s soulful voice create a feeling of desperation and longing.
The story behind the song is just as mysterious as the lyrics themselves. It is said that Johnson made a deal with the devil at a crossroads in Mississippi, trading his soul for the ability to play guitar like no one had ever heard before. The song’s lyrics are often interpreted as a reference to this legend, with the crossroads representing the point where Johnson made his deal with the devil.
“Cross Road Blues” has been covered by countless musicians over the years and is considered one of the most influential blues songs of all time. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics continue to captivate listeners to this day.
2. Me and the Devil Blues
“Me and the Devil Blues” is a haunting blues song by Robert Johnson, recorded in 1937. The song tells the story of a man who is tormented by the devil, following him everywhere he goes. Johnson’s voice is full of anguish and desperation as he sings about his struggle to escape the devil’s grasp. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery, referencing snakes, death, and the devil himself.
Like many of Johnson’s songs, “Me and the Devil Blues” is steeped in folklore and myth. It is said that Johnson was a man who made a deal with the devil in exchange for his musical talent. The song’s lyrics are often interpreted as a reference to this legend, with the devil representing the forces that were holding Johnson back from achieving success.
The song’s haunting melody and Johnson’s soulful voice make it one of his most iconic and memorable tracks. Its influence can be heard in the music of countless blues and rock musicians who have been inspired by Johnson’s unique style. “Me and the Devil Blues” is a testament to Johnson’s incredible talent and his enduring legacy as one of the greatest blues musicians of all time.
3. Sweet Home Chicago
“Sweet Home Chicago” is a classic blues song that has been covered by countless musicians over the years. It was originally recorded by blues legend Robert Johnson in 1936 and has since become a beloved staple of the genre. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics celebrate the city of Chicago, which was a hub of blues activity in the 1930s. The lyrics also reference other blues musicians who were popular at the time, adding to the song’s nostalgic appeal.
The song’s catchy melody and memorable lyrics have made it a favorite of blues fans for generations. Its influence can be heard in countless other songs that pay homage to the blues tradition. “Sweet Home Chicago” is a testament to the enduring legacy of the blues and the impact it has had on American music.
4. Come On In My Kitchen
“Come On In My Kitchen” is a haunting blues song by Robert Johnson, recorded in 1936. The song’s sparse instrumentation and Johnson’s soulful voice create a feeling of intimacy and vulnerability. The lyrics are full of powerful imagery, referencing death, the devil, and the struggles of everyday life. Johnson’s guitar playing is also a standout feature of the song, with his intricate fingerpicking adding to the haunting atmosphere.
The song has been covered by many musicians over the years, including Eric Clapton, who called it one of his favorite songs of all time. Its influence can be heard in the music of countless other blues and rock musicians who have been inspired by Johnson’s unique style. “Come On In My Kitchen” is a testament to Johnson’s incredible talent and his enduring legacy as one of the greatest blues musicians of all time.
5. They’re Red Hot
“They’re Red Hot” is a playful blues song by Robert Johnson, recorded in 1936. The song’s upbeat tempo and humorous lyrics make it a departure from some of Johnson’s more serious work. The lyrics describe the virtues of “red hot” tamales, a popular street food in the Mississippi Delta where Johnson grew up. Johnson’s playful guitar playing and joyful vocals make the song a joy to listen to.
While “They’re Red Hot” may not be as well-known as some of Johnson’s other songs, it is still a beloved part of his discography. Its lighthearted tone and catchy melody make it a fun addition to any blues playlist. The song is a reminder of Johnson’s incredible talent and his ability to capture the spirit of his time and place in his music.
6. Love in Vain
“Love in Vain” is a haunting blues ballad by Robert Johnson, recorded in 1937. The song’s slow tempo and melancholic lyrics create a feeling of heartbreak and longing. Johnson’s soulful voice and intricate guitar playing make the song a standout in his discography. The lyrics describe a man who is left heartbroken and alone after his lover leaves him. The song’s poignant lyrics and emotional intensity have made it a favorite of blues fans for generations.
The song has been covered by many musicians over the years, including the Rolling Stones, who included a version of the song on their 1969 album “Let It Bleed”. Its influence can be heard in the music of countless other blues and rock musicians who have been inspired by Johnson’s unique style. “Love in Vain” is a testament to Johnson’s incredible talent and his enduring legacy as one of the greatest blues musicians of all time.
7. Traveling Riverside Blues
“Traveling Riverside Blues” is a lively blues song by Robert Johnson, recorded in 1937. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics make it a favorite of blues fans around the world. The lyrics describe a man who is traveling from town to town, trying to find a place to call home. Johnson’s guitar playing is a standout feature of the song, with his intricate fingerpicking adding to the song’s energy and excitement.
The song has been covered by many musicians over the years, including Led Zeppelin, who included a version of the song on their 1969 album “Led Zeppelin II”. Its influence can be heard in the music of countless other blues and rock musicians who have been inspired by Johnson’s unique style. “Traveling Riverside Blues” is a reminder of Johnson’s incredible talent and his ability to capture the spirit of his time and place in his music.
8. Hellhound on My Trail
“Hellhound on My Trail” is a haunting blues song by Robert Johnson, recorded in 1937. The song’s slow tempo and haunting melody create a feeling of desperation and fear. The lyrics describe a man who is being pursued by a “hellhound”, a supernatural creature that represents the forces of evil. Johnson’s soulful voice and intricate guitar playing make the song a standout in his discography.
The song has been covered by many musicians over the years, including Eric Clapton, who included a version of the song on his 1994 album “From the Cradle”. Its influence can be heard in the music of countless other blues and rock musicians who have been inspired by Johnson’s unique style. “Hellhound on My Trail” is a testament to Johnson’s incredible talent and his enduring legacy as one of the greatest blues musicians of all time.
9. Walkin’ Blues
“Walkin’ Blues” is a classic blues song by Robert Johnson, recorded in 1936. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a favorite of blues fans around the world. The lyrics describe a man who is traveling from town to town, trying to make a living and find a place to call home. Johnson’s guitar playing is a standout feature of the song, with his intricate fingerpicking and sliding adding to the song’s energy and excitement.
The song has been covered by many musicians over the years, including Eric Clapton, who included a version of the song on his 1992 album “Unplugged”. Its influence can be heard in the music of countless other blues and rock musicians who have been inspired by Johnson’s unique style. “Walkin’ Blues” is a reminder of Johnson’s incredible talent and his ability to capture the spirit of his time and place in his music.
10. I Believe I’ll Dust My Broom
“I Believe I’ll Dust My Broom” is a classic blues song by Robert Johnson, recorded in 1936. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat tempo make it a favorite of blues fans around the world. The lyrics describe a man who is leaving his lover behind and hitting the road, looking for a new start. Johnson’s guitar playing is a standout feature of the song, with his intricate fingerpicking and slide guitar adding to the song’s energy and excitement.
The song has been covered by many musicians over the years, including Elmore James, who had a hit with the song in 1951. Its influence can be heard in the music of countless other blues and rock musicians who have been inspired by Johnson’s unique style. “I Believe I’ll Dust My Broom” is a testament to Johnson’s incredible talent and his enduring legacy as one of the greatest blues musicians of all time.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
