I have been following the RJ cases for over 5 years now. My friend Pat Leblanc lives down in Mississippi and runs the Mississippi Delta Blues Society. Pat also represents the family of Elmore James and others just as LaVere did RJ's. He keeps me informed about the RJ cases as well as the business. I have heard many stories questioning the integrity of LaVere, as well as his right to represent RJ. The industry seems to agree that it is very difficult to do business with him. I heard, but I am not certain this is true, that LaVere was actually suing someone for using the expression "Dust my Broom".I suppose over the years of hearing stories, I have formed a bad opinion of him. So if real family could wrestle rights away from him, that would be OK with me.
It also makes me think about how many stories, especially in the south, are just like this one. An elusive family tree, lost relatives, etc. Most however are never going to be researched to this extent, unless Grampa's legacy in generating millions of dollars.
I am a HUGE RJ fan, as most of you know. In fact, the Mudcat may not have ever existed if I did not hear RJ's complete recordings as a teenager. If I thought for a moment that I might be related to him, I would be doing every research and test imaginable to prove it. The man is a legend, the man was magic, and maybe just maybe some of that is hereditary. Unlikely that I am a relative, being a White Polish kid from Pennsylvania, but that's OK cause I'm the reincarnated Robert Johnson.
Good luck Little Robert, it truly is amazing that you ventured onto the Mudcat. It is an honor to have you here, for without your Great Uncle, there very well be no HERE.