CLARKSDALE, Miss. — The Mississippi Delta has long been regarded as the birthplace of the blues, producing legends such as Muddy Waters, Ike Turner and Sam Cooke. Now, a new generation of musician is expanding that tradition from the stage to the screen.
Keith Johnson, a 32-year-old blues artist known professionally as the “Prince of the Delta Blues,” appears in Tyler Perry’s Joe’s College Road Trip, which was released Friday on Netflix.
The film is a production of Tyler Perry and includes a performance scene filmed in Clarksdale.
“I’m 32 years old. I’m an international national blues artist,” Johnson said. “I’m also an author and I also do a little acting and film work as well.”
Johnson, a graduate of Delta State University, holds a bachelor’s degree in audio engineering and a master’s degree in human resource management. He said he is focused full time on building his music career.
He is currently touring nationally and internationally with Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience, a production supported by Academy Award-winning actor Morgan Freeman.
Johnson said touring has expanded his audience through media appearances and live performances across multiple states and countries.
In addition to touring, Johnson is preparing to release a book titled The Blues Chose Me and a Muddy Waters tribute album called Deep in the Mud, which will feature both tribute and original songs.
His involvement in the Tyler Perry film began after he was contacted to record original music for a performance scene featuring Millie Jackson’s character. After recording two songs in Memphis during a winter ice storm, Johnson and the musicians were invited to appear in the film.
Scenes were filmed at Ground Zero Blues Club, though the venue was modified for production. Johnson appears onscreen playing saxophone.
“It was a great experience, seeing Tyler Perry, seeing how things work behind the scenes,” Johnson said.
Johnson’s connection to the blues runs deep. His great-great uncle was McKinley Morganfield, better known as Muddy Waters, who was born in Rolling Fork and later electrified Delta blues in Chicago.
“It’s just a huge honor to be able to carry that tradition on,” Johnson said.
Johnson said he hopes to continue performing, writing and pursuing film opportunities while honoring his family’s legacy.
“It’s like a house we have to keep building,” he said. “Fifty years from now, someone will be standing on my shoulder.”
