The story behind the rumor that Robert Johnson sold his soul was that his wife died during child birth because Robert had made a deal with the devil and that was punishment for playing secular music.
During his life very little attention was paid to his music, it wasn't until 1936 and 37 that his music became available to listen to at home. Up until then you had to catch a live performance on street corners and Saturday dances in and around the Mississippi delta area.
Another reason for speculation was that Robert would disappear for weeks and months only to return better than he was before at playing guitar and singing his songs.
So what do you think deal or no deal?