ReMastered: Devil at the Crossroads

Exploration of blues legend Robert Johnson's life

Watch on Netflix
About ReMastered: Devil at the Crossroads

Released: 2019

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-14

Run time: 48m

Cast

About ReMastered: Devil at the Crossroads

ReMastered: Devil at the Crossroads is a social and cultural documentary TV show that was released in 2019. It is part of the ReMastered series produced by Netflix. The show explores the intriguing story of blues musician Robert Johnson and the myths surrounding his life and career. Through interviews, archival footage, and expert analysis, the series aims to shed light on the enigmatic figure that Johnson has become in music history.

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About

ReMastered: Devil at the Crossroads delves into the life and legend of blues icon Robert Johnson. Johnson's brief musical career in the 1930s, including his famed recordings in a San Antonio hotel room, has shaped the history of blues music. However, his mysterious life has given rise to legends and myths, with many claiming he made a deal with the devil at a crossroads to attain his extraordinary musical talent. The documentary explores the life of Robert Johnson, tracing the roots of his music, the impact of his songs on future artists, and the legends that surround him. It combines expert interviews with music scholars, historians, and musicians who were inspired by Johnson, as well as archival footage and reenactments to tell the story of his life and legacy.

Making / Production

ReMastered: Devil at the Crossroads was produced by Netflix as part of the ReMastered series. The series focuses on iconic musicians and the mysteries and controversies surrounding their lives. The show was directed by Brian Oakes and produced by Eric Drath. Through extensive research and interviews, the production team aimed to unravel the myths and uncover the truth behind the legend of Robert Johnson.

Actors

  • Cedric Burnside as Robert Johnson (lead role): Burnside portrayed Johnson's character, capturing his journey as a musician and the struggles he faced.
  • Robert Rand as the Devil: Rand played the enigmatic character of the devil, representing the mythical figure that Johnson was believed to have made a pact with.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • Robert Johnson's recordings, known as the "Complete Recordings," have had a significant influence on blues and rock musicians, including Eric Clapton and Keith Richards.
  • The crossroads where Johnson allegedly made a deal with the devil is located near Clarksdale, Mississippi, and has become a site of pilgrimage for music enthusiasts.
  • Johnson's famous song "Cross Road Blues" is said to be inspired by the crossroads myth and his personal experiences as a struggling musician.

Awards

(No awards won or nominated for this show)

Quotes

  • "The story of Robert Johnson is shrouded in mystery, but his impact on music is undeniable." - Music Historian
  • "ReMastered: Devil at the Crossroads unravels the myths and legends surrounding a true music legend." - Rolling Stone

Music & Soundtrack

The soundtrack of ReMastered: Devil at the Crossroads features a collection of Robert Johnson's timeless blues songs, including "Cross Road Blues," "Sweet Home Chicago," and "Hellhound on My Trail." The show also includes performances and covers of Johnson's music by contemporary artists who have been influenced by his work. The soundtrack captures the essence and raw emotion of Johnson's music, showcasing the profound impact he has had on the blues genre.