The Traveling Riverside Blues Highway: A Journey Through the Heart of Mississippi's Blues History
Mississippi's Highway 1, stretching between Friars Point and Rosedale, has recently been christened the "Traveling Riverside Blues Highway." This designation pays homage to the rich history and enduring legacy of the blues, particularly as immortalized by the legendary bluesman Robert Johnson.
The Significance of the Route
The towns of Friars Point and Rosedale hold a special place in Mississippi blues history. Located in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, these communities are steeped in the musical tradition that gave birth to the blues. This stretch of Highway 1 not only connects two important towns but also symbolizes the journey many blues musicians undertook, playing in juke joints, cotton fields, and street corners. By naming this route the Traveling Riverside Blues Highway, we honor the journeys of these musicians and the stories they told through their music.
Robert Johnson and "Traveling Riverside Blues"
Robert Johnson, one of the most enigmatic and influential figures in blues history, is closely associated with this region. His song "Traveling Riverside Blues" captures the spirit of the Delta and the essence of the wandering bluesman. The lyrics vividly portray the life and landscape of the Delta:
If your man gets personal, want you to have your fun
If your man gets personal, want you to have your fun
Just come on back to Friars Point, mama, and barrelhouse all night long
If you're going to Rosedale, look for my baby, Lord
If you're going to Rosedale, look for my baby, Lord
She's going to Rosedale, she won't come back no more
Johnson's references to both Friars Point and Rosedale in the song are a testament to the towns' significance in his life and music. The term "barrelhouse" refers to a lively style of blues piano playing, as well as the rough-and-tumble establishments where such music thrived.
Robert Johnson's Crossroads
One of the four possible locations of the legendary crossroads where Robert Johnson is said to have made his pact with the devil lies at the intersection of Highway 8 and Highway 1 in Rosedale. This mythic site adds another layer of intrigue to the Traveling Riverside Blues Highway, inviting travelers to explore the folklore that surrounds this blues legend.
Bluesmen of the Delta
Many legendary blues musicians traveled this route, leaving an indelible mark on the history of American music. Figures such as Muddy Waters, Charley Patton, and Son House are just a few who would have been familiar with the towns along Highway 1. These musicians not only defined the Delta blues style but also influenced countless artists across genres and generations.
Mississippi Blues Trail and Blues Itineraries
The Traveling Riverside Blues Highway is an essential part of the Mississippi Blues Trail, a network of markers and sites that celebrate the state's rich blues heritage. For those planning Mississippi blues itineraries, this highway offers a unique opportunity to delve deep into the stories and sounds that emerged from this region, forever shaping the landscape of American music.
Delta Hot Tamales
No journey along the Mississippi Blues Highway would be complete without sampling some local cuisine. Delta hot tamales, a beloved regional specialty, offer a taste of the area's cultural melting pot. These spicy, savory treats are as much a part of the Delta experience as the music itself.
Covers of "Traveling Riverside Blues"
Robert Johnson's "Traveling Riverside Blues" has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their unique interpretation to the song. While there are countless versions that can be found online, here are two of the most famous covers of the song.
Led Zeppelin - Their 1969 version infused the song with a rock sensibility, introducing Johnson's music to a new generation of listeners.
Eric Clapton - Known for his deep appreciation of the blues, Clapton's version remains true to the original while showcasing his distinctive guitar style.
Celebrating the Blues Heritage
The designation of the Traveling Riverside Blues Highway is a fitting tribute to the rich cultural heritage of the Mississippi Delta. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of the blues and the musicians who crafted this quintessentially American art form. As travelers journey along Highway 1, they can reflect on the stories and sounds that emerged from this region, forever shaping the landscape of American music.
In celebrating this highway, we celebrate the legacy of Robert Johnson and countless other bluesmen who have inspired generations with their music and their journeys. The Traveling Riverside Blues Highway is more than just a road; it's a pathway through the heart of Mississippi's blues history, inviting us all to barrelhouse along its storied route.