The idea of the crossroads as a location for making a pact with an otherworldly creature is prevalent in American culture, particularly in Southern culture. However, there have been numerous other references to selling one's soul for musical prowess prior to the founding of America, so the idea has a long and storied background.[1] When it comes to the mythology of crossroads in the American South, however, the legends have strong ties to African Americans and Blues music. Before the crossroads were associated with the Blues, they may have been associated with the African trickster god, Legba, who also was connected to crossroads and bargains.[2] Blues music, too, has African roots, so the combination of these various roots play into the connections between the crossroads and the Blues.[3]

The Blues have a complica...

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