Discover the Crossroads on the Blues Highway: A Journey along Highway 61

Are you ready to embark on a musical adventure? Join us as we take a trip down Highway 61, the legendary Blues Highway that cuts through the heart of America. This iconic road has witnessed the birth and evolution of the blues genre, and along its path lies the famous Crossroads, a mythical place where blues legends have made deals with the devil. So fasten your seatbelts and get ready to dive into the rich and soulful history of Highway 61!

The Birth of the Blues Highway

Highway 61, also known as the Blues Highway, stretches over 1,400 miles from New Orleans, Louisiana to Wyoming, Minnesota. This historic route became the lifeline for African American communities, allowing the rich cultural heritage and musical traditions of the Mississippi Delta to spread throughout America.

The blues genre, with its raw emotions and powerful melodies, was born out of the hardship and struggles faced by African Americans in the early 20th century. As they migrated from the cotton fields of the Delta to urban areas, they brought their music along, spreading the sounds of the blues along Highway 61.

Highway 61: Crossroads on the Blues Highway

by Derek Bright(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5571 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	361 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The Legendary Crossroads

One of the most fascinating elements of Highway 61 is the legendary Crossroads. According to blues folklore, this is the place where aspiring musicians would meet the devil, making a pact in exchange for extraordinary musical talent. Although the exact location of the Crossroads is debated, the Mississippi Delta holds a special significance in this tale.

One of the most famous stories is about blues icon Robert Johnson, who allegedly exchanged his soul with the devil at the Crossroads. Legend has it that he disappeared for a few months, only to return as an incredibly skilled guitarist. This tale has become deeply ingrained in blues mythology and has added an air of mystery and mystique to Highway 61.

Exploring Highway 61

As you make your way along Highway 61, you'll encounter a plethora of iconic landmarks and musical hotspots. The Mississippi Delta is home to countless juke joints and blues clubs, where you can immerse yourself in the authentic sounds of the region. Don't miss the chance to visit places like Clarksdale, Memphis, and Baton Rouge, which are steeped in blues history.

Clarksdale, known as the "Birthplace of the Blues," offers a range of attractions such as the Delta Blues Museum and the Ground Zero Blues Club. Here, you can learn about the origins of the blues and experience live performances by talented local musicians.

In Memphis, be sure to visit Beale Street, a historic hub of blues music that has seen performances by artists like B.B. King and Howlin' Wolf. Additionally, a stop at Sun Studio, where legendary musicians like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash recorded their first hits, is a must for any music lover.

Baton Rouge, located in Louisiana, is another essential stop along Highway 61. Here, you can soak up the vibrant Cajun and Creole music scene, which has heavily influenced the blues genre. Don't forget to indulge in some delectable Louisiana cuisine while you're there!

Preserving the Legacy

Highway 61's significance as a cultural and musical landmark cannot be overstated. Today, efforts are being made to honor and preserve this incredible heritage. Numerous festivals are held along the route, such as the Mississippi Delta Blues & Heritage Festival in Greenville, Mississippi, attracting music enthusiasts from all over the world.

The Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale serves as a center for education and preservation of blues history. Exhibits, workshops, and live performances ensure that the music of Highway 61 continues to resonate with future generations.

Celebrating the Blues Highway

Highway 61 is not just a road; it's a symbol of the African American journey and the roots of American music. The stories, legends, and rich culture that have intertwined with this highway are what make it a must-visit destination for any music lover or history enthusiast.

So, as you plan your next road trip, consider embarking on the musical adventure of a lifetime. Take a detour down Highway 61, explore the legendary Crossroads, and immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of the blues. You won't be disappointed!

Highway 61: Crossroads on the Blues Highway

by Derek Bright(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5571 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	361 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Follow British Blues musician and researcher, Derek Bright, as he travels along the famed Highway 61 route from Chicago to New Orleans. This thoroughly researched book delves deeply into African American culture, history and music both past and present associated with the highway. For anyone considering travelling Highway 61, or just wanting to learn more about this historic route and the origins of the blues, this book is essential reading. 2020 Edition with additional photography and updated information.
‘Bright is an old master at following old and ancient trails, and you couldn’t pick a better guide to show you the sights on Highway 61’ ( Paul Garon, co-founder of Living Blues)
‘Derek tunes the car radio to the very best black music that America has to offer...for those of us yet to make this trip into a still so relevant psycho-geographical culture, he is our eyes, ears, and conscience’ (Johnny Green, former road manager of The Clash)