Robert Johnson

If a guitarist was named Robert Johnson, it makes sense to appropriate some kind of nickname in order not to be confused with the bluesman who is said to have sold his soul to the devil. The choice of "Billy" inserted as a middle name unfortunately doesn't mean a free ride for discographers, researchers, or someone just trying to figure out who is playing guitar and yelling on a Swedish surf music record. Several performers have been credited on albums as Robert "Billy" Johnson, including a drummer who played with Santana and an in-demand reggae axeman. Add to that list the Swedish Robert "Billy" Johnson who, minus the nickname, has led the Robert Johnson & Punchdrunks combo since the early '90s. This group first staggered to attention on the Heavy Surf compilation, but has released a pile of albums under its own name, the titles of which promise various exciting experiences: Fried on the Altar of Good Taste or Feels Like Buzz Aldrin, for example. Johnson was also in the band for bassist John Entwistle's final solo tour in 2001, and has also recorded with singer/songwriter Camille Davila. ~ Eugene Chadbourne, Rovi