9. Robert Johnson - The Complete Recordings
Considered one of the "founding members" of the 27 Club, Robert Johnson is a legendary figure in blues music, with myths about him selling his soul to the devil in exchange for a shot at success remaining popular even today. But behind the mythical tales lies something much more interesting: A collection of fuzzy, technically excellent blues songs that have since evolved into larger-than-life creations. Re-assembled in rigorous fashion, The Complete Recordings is the only collection fans of Johnson need to own, as it contains every song - and every version of every song - the blues master recorded during his short career. From the masterful "Cross Road Blues" to the still ominous "Hellhound On My Trail," both of which remain standards for any burgeoning blues musicians, these recordings are endlessly engrossing, to the point where skipping the alternate takes of any given song still feels wrong. After all, it doesn't matter how many times you hear that revolutionary, boogie bass line in "I Believe I'll Dust My Broom," it's not going to get any less satisfying.