Robert A. Johnson (born in the 1950s) is a rock and blues guitarist based in Memphis, Tennessee who is best known for his work in the 1970s.[1] He is usually known professionally as "Robert Johnson." He is no relation to the 1930s era blues guitarist Robert Johnson.
Early in his career Johnson played in bands with Jack Holder and Greg Reding, who later became members of Black Oak Arkansas. Johnson's work became well respected by other musicians and at the age of 23 he was auditioned by The Rolling Stones as a possible replacement for Mick Taylor. He also played with jazz legend Ella Fitzgerald. Between 1974 to 1977 he went on tour as the lead guitarist for John Entwistle's band, known as "John Entwistle's Ox."
With his backing band the Bell Heirs, featuring Dave Cochran on bass and Blair Cunningham, he cut an album entitled Close Personal Friend for Infinity Records in 1978. The album reached #174 on the Billboard 200.[2] He released a set of demos the following year. In 2008 Close Personal Friend was released on CD with bonus tracks.