Robert Johnson Centennial Year Means Big Business For The Blues, Tourism And History!
Who is the King of Delta Blues? Robert Johnson of course! Born in Hazlehurst Mississippi in 1911, Robert Johnson’s mystique has grown into an international phenomenon and the 29 songs that he wrote and sang serve as the foundation for Rock & Roll. 2011 marks the 100th birthday celebration of the blues icon and has reignited an international interest in his life, music and family roots.
Claud Johnson, son of the late musical genius and founder of the Robert Johnson Blues Foundation expresses his thoughts of his father. “Robert Johnson and his music mean so much to the state of Mississippi and American music culture! It is well documented that his music and style has influenced generations from Muddy Waters to B. B. King, Eric Clapton and the Rolling Stones. The Robert Johnson Blues Foundation intends to not only preserve his story but educate and entertain people and remind others of the power his influence and the role he played in contributing to the foundation of American popular music.”
The Robert Johnson Blues Foundation and museum is located in Crystal Springs, Mississippi in Copiah County not far from the Hazlehurst, Mississippi the birthplace of the music icon. A satellite office is located in Union Station train depot in Jackson, Mississippi.
Mississippi has made Robert Johnson one of its tourism ambassadors by placing he and writer Tennessee Williams on the cover of the state tourism guide for 2011; both of whom celebrate their centennial birthdays this year.
The international interest in Robert Johnson has engulfed four continents so far. Individuals from North America, South America, Asia & Europe are visiting Mississippi in an effort to embrace the Robert Johnson legacy and tour areas associated with Robert Johnson.
In an effort to expand the marketing and merchandising components of Robert Johnson and the Robert Johnson Blues Foundation, the organization has received approval from the United States Postal Service to utilize the image dedicated to Mr. Johnson by the postal service in 1994.
“The Postal Service is pleased to join in the national observance of Robert Johnson’s centennial year,” said spokesman Roy Betts. “In 1994, the Postal Service honored Robert Johnson on a U.S. postage stamp for his extraordinary contributions as a blues music legend. We are especially proud that the foundation, in agreement with the Postal Service, is resurrecting this special stamp to appear on centennial promotions and merchandise. The legacy of Robert Johnson lives on.”
For more information about Robert Johnson and centennial events please visit RobertJohnsonBluesFoundation.org and Facebook.com/robertjohnsonblues.
CONTACT: Michael L. Johnson
Chief Executive Officer
Robert Johnson Blues Foundation
[email protected]
601-613-0805