DJ Jim Q's Playlist: CROSSROADS
Welcome, wandering listeners, to our April playlist, CROSSROADS. The theme this month was selected by our Polish friends from the Wrocław chapter of CreativeMornings. Through this theme, we will explore the sonic intersections of consequential choice, uncertainty, direction, divergence, and delineation. The crossroads, as a metaphor, has symbolically represented key moments of truth, critical choices, and meaningful turning points. So, select a sonic path and follow your ears—fear not travelers, all roads lead to listening fulfillment.
The crossroads has traditionally had an allegorical role in American music. The legends and folklore surrounding the liminal power of the crossroads are deeply woven into the mysticism and myth surrounding early blues and, subsequently, rock and roll. The origin of this fantastical fable seems to be from the tale of one pioneering bluesman, Robert Johnson. As legend has it, Johnson made a pilgrimage to a crossroads somewhere in rural Mississippi, where he met the devil himself, and in exchange for unearthly musical abilities, he sold his soul to the dark prince. Fellow bluesman Son House remarked on Johnson’s dramatic transformation, saying he “went away” and came back playing like he was possessed. Variations of the story have since become part of blues and rock ‘n’ roll lore. What a great tall tale—it has all the classic ingredients of a parable. I like to think of it more as a metaphor for the sacrificial pursuit of genius at the expense of one’s well-being. Many a driven artist intimately knows the burden of ambition and the price paid for eschewing traditional paths to follow creative pursuits.
Which path to travel? Which direction to go? This month, we meet at the juncture of music and destiny. The theme is Crossroads, and these sonic intersections will lead you down a path of musical fulfillment. From FKA Twigs’ indecisive “which way to go” to the determination of Blondie’s “One Way or Another” to Gang Starr’s rally to overcome in the “Moment of Truth,” these songs highlight critical decisions, points of consideration, and a chosen path. Whichever trail you tread you’ll have a great soundtrack to score your journey.
I hope you have enjoyed this musical excursion. Please join me again next month for another theme and another playlist. If you enjoy these playlists, let me know. I’m on X (for now) and Bluesky, and be sure to follow me on Spotify. See you next month.