Robert Leroy Johnson (May 8, 1909/1912 – August 16, 1938) can arguably be considered as the most famous Delta blues singer and guitarist in history even though he lived to be only 27 and didn’t start recording until 3 years before his death. Although having such little time in the music industry, he was able to become widely acclaimed and popular; he has had a broad influence on a wide spectrum of musicians, some of whom viewed him as a near demi-god. Among his more well-known fanbase are Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton, Keith Richards, and Bob Dylan.

Johnson was born in Hazlehurst, Mississippi. The commonly accepted birthdate is almost certainly in error. School and marriage records, and his death certificate suggest various dates including 1909 and 1912 —although none support the 1911 date.

[via FoxyTunes / Robert Johnson]