On this day March 14 1986 the musical drama Crossroads premiered in theaters. Directed by Walter Hill the film starred Ralph Macchio Joe Seneca and Jami Gertz in a blues infused road movie inspired by the legend of blues guitarist Robert Johnson.
The story followed a young guitarist played by Macchio who sets out on a journey to discover a lost Robert Johnson song while learning about the blues from an aging musician. The film blended music drama and mythology culminating in an unforgettable guitar duel featuring legendary guitarist Steve Vai.
80s insight: Ralph Macchio trained extensively for the role but the fast paced solos during the climactic guitar battle were performed by guitarist Steve Vai and Ry Cooder who also contributed to the film’s soundtrack.
The story followed a young guitarist played by Macchio who sets out on a journey to discover a lost Robert Johnson song while learning about the blues from an aging musician. The film blended music drama and mythology culminating in an unforgettable guitar duel featuring legendary guitarist Steve Vai.
80s insight: Ralph Macchio trained extensively for the role but the fast paced solos during the climactic guitar battle were performed by guitarist Steve Vai and Ry Cooder who also contributed to the film’s soundtrack.
