In the 1930s Mississippi Delta, a young blues musician vanished and returned transformed.

This episode of Dead Notes explores the life and legend of Robert Johnson, a man with just twenty-nine recordings, no confirmed grave, and a story that refuses to settle. From the crossroads myth to the eerie lyrics that followed him, Johnson's music feels less like ambition and more like a warning.

Did he sell his soul or did the legend come later because there was no other way to explain what people heard?

If you enjoy atmospheric, narrative storytelling, you may also like Ben Cooper's other podcast, The Unremarkable which are fictional stories about ordinary places where something feels off.

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Music and production by Ben Cooper.
© 2025 CooperVille Productions. All rights reserved.

Copyright Disclaimer
This episode includes short references to copyrighted recordings for purposes of commentary, criticism, analysis, and historical discussion. These excerpts are used under the principles of fair use.

Otis Redding was on the edge of everything he'd ever dreamed of. A voice that could shake the world. A new sound that was about to redefine soul music. And then in a blink it was gone. In this episode we follow the final days of the King of Soul a man who never lived long enough to see the crown placed on his head. From the promise of "Sittin' On The Dock of the Bay" to the plane crash that silenced him too soon we unravel the rise the mystery and the legacy of one of music's greatest voices.

Subscribe, rate, and share to help others find the show.
Music and production by Ben Cooper.
© 2025 CooperVille Productions. All rights reserved.

Copyright Disclaimer
This episode includes short references to copyrighted recordings for purposes of commentary, criticism, analysis, and historical discussion. These excerpts are used under the principles of fair use. All music and audio recordings remain the property of their respective copyright holders. No unauthorized reproduction or distribution is intended, and listeners are encouraged to support the original artists and rights owners.

Marvin Gaye was a voice that could quiet a nation and a man haunted by storms no one could see. In this episode we trace the fragile line between genius and despair and the tragic final hours that ended with a gunshot inside his family home. A story of soul, conflict, and the music that still refuse to fade.

Subscribe, rate, and share to help others find the show.
Music and production by Ben Cooper.
© 2025 CooperVille Productions. All rights reserved.

Copyright Disclaimer:
This episode contains brief audio references used for commentary, analysis, and educational purposes under the principles of fair use. All music and archival materials remain the property of their respective copyright holders. No infringement is intended.