Bob Schwartz

I went to the crossroad, fell down on my knees

The best case for the electric guitar (pun accidental, I think) is those who have mastered it.

I was going to begin with a partial list of favorite players and giants (bigger than great). But artistic lists are pointless—though admittedly fun—so they are unhelpful. Anyway, that list would be really long.

Instead, when I listened this morning to Wheels of Fire (1968) by Cream, I was impressed by the guitarist, a then-young guy named Eric Clapton. I’m sure Clapton’s playing has gotten “better” over the decades, but his playing here is __ (fill in the superlative).

So here is Cream live, performing an electric version of the classic Robert Johnson song Cross Road Blues. Setting aside the meme at the time that “Clapton is God”, he is pretty good. Makes the case for electric guitars.

Also, as lover of Mississippi, blues, and rock and roll, I’ve included a recording of the original Robert Johnson version. They’ve added a fun video of the life and legend of Robert Johnson—he reputedly sold his soul to play so otherworldly great.