Adam Gussow, "Crossroads Blues" (2010)

[@codybuffoord3172]

This changed every single thing I've ever thought about harmonica, an I been playing the blues over 20 yeara

[@Modernbluesharmonica]

I'm intrigued by your comment. How do you mean?

[@codybuffoord3172]

@@Modernbluesharmonica for starters, the fact that this song, from the original to hundreds of versions, from dead on note for note copies, to basically just concepts that borrow only the lyrics or the idea of what they are supposed to mean, it has always invoked but one emotion in me, to some extent the same emotion that most blues songs in general do; a sense of being indentured. To the "devil" ( real or metaphorically) to a person, or to a time clock. This version, your version, invokes the opposite, a sense of freedom from being indentured. I've enjoyed harmonica as a stand alone or accompanying instrument plenty but seldom has it moved me quite as much as say, a guitar, yours and Jason Ricci have sure, sonny terry, little Walter etc, but this more than invoke an emotion, this version, stripped down and raw as it is, challenged my concept of an entire genre of music. So that said, it made me view the harmonica as a symbol of freedom, not just a tool of the oppressed, and for whatever it's worth, I thank you.

[@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726]

@@codybuffoord3172 : That's an exceptionally nice comment. I couldn't have put it better: "a sense of freedom from being indentured." That's absolutely right, and I'm so glad that came through. When I recorded this album, I was one year into my one-man-band odyssey, and I was galvanized by what felt like a creative rebirth, and kind of energetic explosion. My model, of course, was Mr. Satan (Sterling Magee), the musician I'd played with for many years. I'd been right by his side when he added a second hi-hat cymbal in 1987; I watched him transform himself from a brilliant guitarist/singer into somebody who was also a brilliant percussionist. My version of this song was powered by my sense that the "crossroads" I was at was a creative crossroads: it wasn't about selling my soul, but about accessing the explosive energies buried within my soul and letting them transform me. That's the spirit in which I invoke Magee in this song: "I'm standing at the crossroads...I hope he waves to [or stops for] me." I'm basically invoking him as a helper; as my muse. The energy you so aptly named, in other words, is NOT the doom-laden sense of being haunted that many people connect with Johnson's version of the song, but a sense of explosive creative transformation: a hope of being sanctified or annointed in that way. All of this came together in the studio; it's palpable in the recording. You got it exactly right.

[@jerrycohencohen8901]

Your the reason I keep trying to play.

[@thomasbrown8468]

The only instrument with the full range of human emotions 👁

[@johnallison9174]

This stirs my old soul .... best ever music track I have heard in my 69 years ... I have no musical talent whatsoever, but it gets me stomping and head shaking every time I hear it.

[@blackhorse11thACR]

Who would put a dislike on this amazing blues harmonica musician. Must be awfully jealous. Adam is a brilliant artist. He also gives much of himself in free lessons for the rest of us. In these times someone like Adam is a blessing and appreciated.

[@blackhorse11thACR]

@@paulcook68 again you can't play and are jealous bonzo.

[@blackhorse11thACR]

@@paulcook68 sad mentality from a schnook

[@michaelschaefer9535]

I miss Adam from NYC. He tried to teach me but I was a terrible student. Kept it up tho and I took what he taught me to heart and eventually...Never be as good as him. But who is?

[@markieproductions22]

Blackhorse 11th ACR Indeed!

[@brya6894]

I get pumped up in four courners Farmington nm

[@curryblackwell]

Still one of the best harmonica….& pure music scores I’ve ever heard…genius

[@BBQDad463]

At 70 years of age and having been steeped in the Blues and Dixieland Jazz since birth, I must say that this was truly outstanding. Thank You, Sir!

[@SheungLok-b7z]

Wow

[@sylviogoguen3760]

I only have one problem with this video.He has a truck but he's trying to hitch a ride ????

[@BBQDad463]

@@sylviogoguen3760 You raise a good issue. I guess it is just a video made to entertain. If it had been promoted as a documentary... well,,,

[@adolfogomez5556]

He's white outside, pure New Orleans Bourbon Street inside

[@yannickramouillet3742]

I have just an horrible gastroenteritis and boom that fucking Adam gussow's song appears from nowhere . The blues healed me

[@1cip255]

if your a blues fan … this is “a thing of beauty” :-)

[@bsg75husker]

i think if you have any feeling for music at all, this has to get ya ;) He's amazing

[@marcuscicero9587]

oh yeah

[@SheungLok-b7z]

Wow what an amazing artist.

[@zebedeezimminy]

Adam I have listened to you for fifteen years and never knew you could sing like this! Wow!! This is really the whole deal. Beautifully done and a masterclass in blues.

[@chrisezelle]

👍🏼❤️

[@timange124]

I am Canadian, with roots in Germany and Portugal. I’m not sure where it comes from, but I absolutely love the Blues. Just decided to get into harmonica. My children are in piano and drums, thought this would be a good (not incredibly hard) instrument to learn the basics and accompany them. Now we just have to get my wife on something. Probably tambourine is the best we’ll manage.

[@massimovelluti6501]

even pots and plates are good for music

[@mic115849]

Having blastin harp for 55 years, this guy rocks the house! Keep going, guess I'll steal the show kid!

[@jonathanpalmer3587]

Just caught this older number now in August’22. May be my favorite A. Gussow video ever. That was so much fun and you were playing great. Really glad I found this. You have helped my playing tremendously. Thank you so much for sharing your time and talent. You’re the best.

[@HoofHearted6]

Brought a tear to my eye. Beautifully done. Amazing!

[@tomatoes3]

Don't know how many times I've heard this now, but it's always fresh . Probably the best version there has been .

[@isaiasxd4453]

Wowww THIS was insane , yeahhhh buddy ❤

[@greggmarkowski5203]

Every time I watch this video I'm blown away how in the hands of a master like Adam and his many peers, past and present, they can turn such a silly little instrument into such a powerful voice. It is beyond cool.

[@reedbender1179]

And you are beyond stupid...it's a Harp...you can't play it, you don't comprehend it ...and you can farkoff,you silly little instrument ! 😱...🥱

[@reedbender1179]

But yes...beyond cool ! 😎

[@leckertiabell7408]

Whew Robert Johnson, the father of Rock and roll and blues. A beautiful tribute

[@BoutTime73]

All I can say is “played the shit out of this!!”

[@petergardner3963]

I never stop watching this video - I keep coming back for ages now … it is perfect !

[@johnfreitas3019]

Me too man, you said it all.

[@robertmarshall7938]

A blues masterpiece played brilliantly love it

[@spacemanspiffy6596]

Oh man, I just found out who you are.

[@carlgrimsley7019]

It is hard to believe that this beautiful music is created on such a small instrument. This guy is truly a genius u

[@christopherlackey4953]

Those harps are crazy addictive.

[@johnpatterson2061]

for sure

[@jpmosnier5937]

Adam's singing is surely part of it too

[@SandroMassarani]

This man is a virtuoso. Amazing rendition of a timeless classic.

[@Modernbluesharmonica]

Thanks!

[@johnjacobs3300]

&hmm

[@captyoss]

d'accordissimo

[@flamethrowingnun6007]

Very cool...Woulda like to see you wearing a mississipi string tie!

[@paolospade8063]

Sandro Massarani

[@deltabluez3830]

Holy F**k, thats is the best blues harp i have ever heard. WOW!

[@kenmcewen7177]

I'VE BEEN PLAYIN HARP FOR 40 YEARS AND BEEN HAVIN A GREAT TIME PLAYIN MUSIC WITH SOME AWESOME TALENT AROUND THE COUNTRY! WHEN IT COMES TO HARMONICA ( SEASONED PLAYERS ) WE ALL HAVE OUR OWN STYLE. WHEN IT COMES TO "GUSSOW" THIS CAT KNOCKS IT OUT OF THE PARK! THERE IS NO "MARY HAD A LITTLE LAMB" SHIT GOING ON HERE! "ADAM" YOU ARE A LEGEND!...LIKE TO MEET UP WITH YA IN "CLARKSDALE" AT "GROUND ZERO AND SLAM A SHOT OF "CROWN" AND B.S. BEFORE I DIE. THANKS FOR YOUR RENDITION OF "CROSSROADS!"....THIS COMES FROM THE HEART1

[@TheKhaine101]

I really love this version of this song and loved the harmonica playing. Give a whole new style and feel.

[@sdxn8117]

Best harp I've ever heard, including my heros Paul Butterfield and Charlie Musselwhite. I'm 69 how come I've never heard of you...just wrong. Great job!!

[@jaycollins1034]

I can relate. I been playing the hell out of a saxophone since I've been 12, but didn't start singing till I turned 30. I'm 46 now and people say I sing pretty well. Anybody who hates on your voice should realize something: Any musician who can learn to play an instrument well, will also eventually be able to sing well, it's only a matter of time and work. It's already in your body and your ear. Thanks for the harmonica lesson!

[@Modernbluesharmonica]

Jay Collins : Thanks for getting it, and where I'm at.

[@alphaO27]

+Adam Gussow I wish I could be in USA to meet you, or come to be in one of your shows, you have a very good technique and I learned a lot from you

[@dantebondin4385]

Forever young!

[@seejayjames]

@cannab al -- Marine Bands sound good but IMO are uncomfortable to play, there are metal edges that rub against the lips. Also they still use nails to hold it together......why....... PITA to take apart if you need to adjust the reeds. Special 20s are pretty much all I play now., though I have some Lee Oskar and Seydels that are nice too (they make some lower ones that Hohner doesn't). Got a ton of Special 20s and they have never disappointed. If you're serious, don't get the cheaper ones.

[@jean-noelbailly6557]

Une voix éraillée juste ce qu'il faut, un jeu d'harmonica de folie, un rythme qui pousse terriblement l'auditeur à l'accompagner des pieds ou des mains, les battements du cœur qui grimpent, les presque 6mn de ce morceau passent à toute allure, on en redemande. Merci pour ce partage ... Yep !!!

[@rickeydenler4272]

One of the best if not the best blues harmonica players on the planet I love it

[@brucekolinski5401]

Life altering performance for a new 73-year old harminica student. Been studying for two months. I have a ways to go and lots to look forward to. Thanks for this.

[@jquery2774]

Even all these these years later this is still a great song.

[@LuckLampLicker]

After nearly 90 years, this tune still sounds freakin amazing

[@matthewpagan4644]

LuckLampLicker what r u talking about

[@lecturedelabible7217]

He's talking about something like that, I bet : kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5WZYaF_adiUb6M

[@rickymcguire6993]

Cross roads legend or is it ? So so many well known artist sing the song and so many of them say it's true legba

[@mns8732]

That's not the song; cream said they took words of crossroads and the time of another song and combined them. Nowhere ninety years but who cares, R Johnson might be proud.

[@mns8732]

We can only imagine the pain and try to enter the realm. Almost impossible. Only play with head bowed hat in hand.

[@piercedarrow57]

This just Blew Me Away!!!!! BRILLIANT!!!! Damn...you can PLAY that harp!!!! Well done!!!

[@Barock-mt8bc]

I am 50 and started playing harmonica at age 14. This song is an absolutely fantastic blues vibration I love it so much I am speachless ✌👍

[@javiersanchez2874]

Just this video alone has improved my playing a lot. I share your channel and this video specifically to any one that’s asks about harmonica. You told me to go and find a master in real life and that your not it but you feel like it to me. Thank you Adam I really appreciate it.

[@geoffreypiltz271]

Blues harmonica doesn't get any better than this.

[@hoshi7942]

Everything in this video is so cool. I love his whole vibe from the retro truck to the raw skill on the harp!

[@mic115849]

The retro truck is probably all he could afford. And anyone critiquing this man is a idiot! Keep your mouth shut!

[@stevensandness6555]

I also love the background. It's not my home state, but it really brings a feeling of home to a person.

[@prairiestrong1106]

Dec 26. 2022. Can’t get enough of this tune. It’s soooo damn good!!

[@chriskurz6982]

Can't keep my feet still!!! Best Jam ever!!! That's a one of a billion!!! Thank you so much!!!!🙏🙏🙏

[@timange124]

My feet literally dancing out of my control, then I read this comment haha

[@falco566]

This reminded me of what made me fall in love with blues harp 40 years ago... great beat, the sheer skills, the lyrics and story with it (great vid btw, co-prod had added value here) thanks bro.

[@HOMERTINKLE]

Can’t just play this kind of music, it must come from deep within your soul, and brother, you’ve got it !!!!! Fantastic music !!!!!!!!!!

[@halcyon1030]

You stir my blues loving soul my man. I'm a student and consumer of the blues and have studied under the guidance of Stephan Grossman. I 'm from the other side of the river my man , but one thing I know is that we rose and will be settled in the same soil that has grown cotton for generations past to the present. These live oaks carry the echoes of many a blues traveler and I ant to get good enough to do my covers. Yankees just seem to lack a certain authenticity to deliver the blues like a man raised on bisquits and gravy !!! great performance.

[@Modernbluesharmonica]

Henry Wilson : Thanks man. I'm trying.

[@halcyon1030]

I almost forgot to mention that truck. It really adds a dimension to the overall dirt road deal with the Devil meme. I too have a project 1969 stepside that is so much a thing that explains who I am. I love the old simpler things in life that endure time. I am going to seek you out and shake your hand some day . I of course will buy your tunes. maybe I can accompany you with our two old chevys in the background. We can call it the RC cola and Moon Pie breakdown !

[@RussEastburn]

Harpist for 52 years myself Adam you are inspiring. And a nice guy--- thanks for this and all you do for this magnificent instrument. Would love a jam sometime

[@HowardEllisonUKVoice]

Dazzling talent! Started harp this week, thrilled and motivated by Adam's great teaching - then happened upon this jaw-dropper.

[@charlesklein2228]

This is damned brilliant! Fantastic performance and video. Loved every second of it!

[@ristorajala7756]

Thank you for giving us this piece blues art. I felt so good after hearing this. Breath taking skill and talent. I also dig your taeching clips.

[@gasjebasje99]

I've listened to 3 versions of this song, and this one personally is my favorite. The original version has a classic charm to it that you can only hear in songs of that era, and the version by Clapton is very well performed and easy to get into, but I like how this version does a great job at being a modern tune and still have that 'rocking chair on porch' kind of sound to it.

[@thatphotodude]

Adam, thank you, just flipping thank you. I am stuck in a rut on my harp and this just makes me get off my ass and keep learning!

[@florianstark4991]

Love your music and your car!! both are awesome

[@eddyengland5398]

10 years on, and he is still going strong. Great stuff

[@herivas7618]

Simplesmente fantástico. Maravilhoso A tempo não escutava uma harmônica tão vigorosa, pulsante e cheia de personalidade pra dizer pouco, como essa. Parabéns.

[@h.farhad6176]

Simply an awesome track. Thank you kindly for uploading the track. Be Blessed. Amen.

[@tomas11155]

I listen to this almost everyday... amazing skills, beautiful sound and nice feelings... I just love it

[@toddboswell9397]

Tonight was 400th time watching from the woodshed . Thanks Adam and Mr. Satan.

[@candelerotito]

Since yesterday I do notstop to reproduce this song... I am horse guide... I play harp a little bit, but sir gossow is absolutely the number one!!!!!!!!! 😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎😎💯💯💯😜

[@patrickkoh1056]

this is a man who lives for and by music, he rocks!

[@MrWomax]

patrick Koh he mostly bluses muaha... ok I'm outta here.

[@jasondavis3824]

I would to drive to Mississippi to meet and play a little

[@jasondavis3824]

Adam your my favorite harp player

[@moogybannahilstopaflingon6803]

Really, really wicked! Just blown away!It's so amazing to see someone who is so good at doing something!Thank you for sharing and please continue!

[@jackhyde5457]

Man I'm loving it!!!!! Greatest music I heard in a long time. This man is heart and soul!!!

[@michaelmorgan8812]

G'day Adam, Michael from Australia, even though I was born down under, this sure sounds like home to me, I'm a drummer and I just love playing the drums along to your tunes, keep up the great work brother. Peace, Love and Blessings.

[@lindseyzacek5211]

Still playing because you..let's play the blues...I'm getting it now..thanks...I rock a c.

[@Reaganmurphy4596]

Hello Lindsey 👋

[@soufianbrom1049]

Nothing to say......just a pure art ❤⚡⚡🧢🧢💥

[@Modernbluesharmonica]

I'm playing a Hohner Marine Band, key of D. I'm playing it cross harp (second position) in the key of A.

[@danielfaller5617]

Except that actualy youre really killin' it.

[@hetjamesfield4473]

Adam... I know that Crossroads.. I know that two spooky trees very very well. Trust me. They are there for a reason. I have to go back there asap.. I will just say to you that, this is THE REAL Crossroads. It happend here... I have one question Adam. I know who told and showed me, but please, how did you find out about it? And have you tryed it? If not, well, then DONT! Please trust me, it is not good.

[@hetjamesfield4473]

Was back there... Nothing happent. Yet. But it Will. Btw, i Will tell just that ... This Is not the only place, there are 4 or 5 more.... I Will get back Here when..... 👋👋

[@ArtofDreaming1]

many thanks but more so you knock this song out of the park. Second I hear it thats where I go. never get tired of it.

[@drdave5150]

This is fantastic

[@victorsia1434]

Never much of a harmonica blues fan,but Adam Gussow rocks it!

[@BuckrBill]

Adam thank you very much for the workshop you put on yesterday on the riffs for this song for Tomlin’s students a definite highlight day in my harmonica journey thank you take care stay safe peace

[@TrikeRoadPoet]

A run of notes and you take flight across a sea of the blues, the back beat marks time as the music sets your mind to wandering memories and possibilities. Awesome!

[@yodawok]

Just watched "Satan and Adam" on Netflix (must watch for blues lovers)... Wow... blown away... Thank you for getting it done!!

[@ralphturnbull916]

Man i is totaly blown tankflyralph @outlook.com. watford england

[@ralphturnbull916]

Great sound

[@michaelschaefer9535]

Met them in NYC back in the late 80s early 90s. Best street buskers I ever saw.

[@ArtofDreaming1]

I know this the era of customized harps but I have gotten some of the most beautiful ,perfect notes out of my marine band, Couldn't have sounded better. I really wish this video gets the attention it deserves. Clearly you do a superlative job one of my favorites. And that is a rare place sublime achievement. just great!

[@nerenahd]

I can watch Adam playing all day long and forget about everything😆

[@TWhat-wq7to]

Ive been learning to play from his lessons then I stumble across this. He has great character and seeing him ripping that beautiful truck and I like him even more!

[@blakestanley3891]

I’m 57 years old been playing harp since I was 12 you humble me, keep up the good work my friend.

[@jasonvarn368]

THIS IS TALENT at it's EPIC EXTREME AMAZING BEST DISPLAY I HAVE SEEN YET TO DATE!!!! I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS THANK YOU SO MUCH ADAM GUSSOW LOVE YOU BRO and EVERYTHING YOUR DOING ON THIS PLANET IT'S INCREDIBLE AND YOUR AWESOME MAN!!!! I APPRECIATE YOU AND EVERYTHING YOU DO!!!!

[@spencerkunikiwass4660]

This man has his own sound & style and I'll be diggin' this for more than just awhile. I am a believer...

[@JooJooShrimp]

@CosmicStorm Ripping off? Blues is about passing on the tradition and keeping the legacy of those that came before you and inspired you alive.

[@neilbillington8684]

@CosmicStorm You're wrong. He is covering what has become a blues standard - and chiefly on guitar - but while he's digging into the blues tradition he is giving it his own flavour, and playing the harp completely in his own style. None of the traditional guys played like that - or could play like that.

[@3deltadave]

it's a masterpiece Adam. You totally psyched me to to go jam for a few hrs!!! Love the octaves in there too!

[@wayne9518]

I guess this has become my favorite. Every time it pops up I watch/listen again. Which probably makes it pop up more often. Lather, rinse, repeat.

[@f.d.miller3903]

As a 61 year old has been guitarist playing since 13 yrs old.....im so, so, so impressed.

[@frankanalla55]

This is great piece of blues. I hear you Robert Johnson!!

[@garywilliamson9130]

Love this version of this song,what talent, I'm trying to learn to play the harmonica but sound like a catfish eating a bowl of porridge, lot more practice before I sound like you Adam! Respect

[@nerenahd]

I am gonna learn this version of yours on my harp, Adam. Great musicians for me are those who inspire people, and that Sir, you do.

[@Len_Carson]

Wishing you a very happy birthday Adam.. Thankyou for your tireless energy and keeping the music alive 🎶🎵🎶🎵🎶🎵🎶🎵🎶

[@prairiestrong1106]

I think I have a tear in my eye, this is outstanding. I’ve got happy feet now.

[@marciobm7810]

Very good video and performance! Hugs from Brazil! 🇧🇷👊

[@sveca9950]

The sound of a harp is amazing.

[@moogybannahilstopaflingon6803]

Something in your tone and the beautiful and subtlety brutal way you bend those notes is GENIUS MAN!Definitely some of the best harp I've ever had the pleasure to hear.Man, those runs are from heaven (maybe Hell) and they sound absolutely fantastic.A true master!

[@gussowsclassicbluesharmoni2726]

thanks! That's a great handle, BTW.

[@bernardtroude9320]

Bravo, c'est une personne comme vous qui encourage les débutants comme moi à continuer!

[@poszukiwacz4491]

Man, you make me come alive every day, even though I feel like crying.

[@allenclark338]

Gets better every time I hear it.

[@Penandroll]

sir..that was a kick ass performance!.

[@MARKIEBANUNCE]

FUCKING A!!!!!

[@douglascarrier2938]

Love this cut of crossroads man..... just too cool !!!!

[@thgorobets]

Thank you, Adam, that's so great and inspiring!

[@Len_Carson]

Love coming back to this rendition. Hats off to you Mr.Gussow..

[@Modernbluesharmonica]

Thanks!

[@martharousse5707]

It is sooo good to hear this man again can't get enough of him blessings to you

[@laskartrece]

Beautiful!! Well done master!

[@ShariHaley]

That was Totally AWESOME!! You can Rock that Harp my friend!!

[@chriswirges5202]

This is so perfect, so completely awesome. It doesn't get any better than that ❤️

[@paulmccarthy6081]

Simply beautiful. Much love

[@GreterThurnburger]

I'm still looking for one of Jason's songs, but YOU got that harp back in my mouth today, thank you, Professor..

[@richardsherwin3259]

Awesome! I've always loved your videos on instruction and the time you give with them to us mere mortals. I'm off to iTunes to buy this album! All the best

[@contrafax]

LOVELY, I really enjoyed this version.

[@thedutchman3929]

I just realised this is been up for a long time. How did I not see this before...new to the planet. No matter..everything I said stands of course...but just wanted to thank you. I've learned alot of technique from you. Thank you brother. DK

[@florianstark4991]

Music and car are fantastic!!