See also Robert Johnson (musician), a Delta Blues musician

Robert "Bob" Johnson (born 18 March 1944) is a British guitarist formerly in the electric folk band Steeleye Span from 1972-77 and again from 1980-2001.

Bob Johnson was born in London; his mother was a music teacher. He became a member of Steeleye Span in 1972 after being introduced by fiddler Peter Knight. He first appeared on the group's fourth album, Below the Salt, where he took lead vocals on the track "King Henry". Along with King Henry, Bob was introduced many of the band's better-known songs into the reportoire, such as Thomas the Rhymer, Alison Gross, Long Lankin and Gaudete^[1].

Despite taking lead vocals on many songs, Johnson was something of a background member. He left Steeleye temporarily in 1977 to work on a concept album called The King of Elfland's Daughter with Peter Knight. However, he returned in 1980 to record Sails of Silver.

After Tim Hart's departure from the band in 1980, Johnson became the sole guitarist and a more prominent member, taking on a central role for the albums Back in Line (1986) and Tempted and Tried (1989).

Johnson left Steeleye Span in 2000 due to health reasons, but returned in 2001 to record Present--The Very Best of Steeleye Span. However, his remaining health issues prevented him from touring, so he was replaced by Ken Nicol.

Johnson is a qualified Psychologist, having completed a degree with the University of Hertfordshire. He also gives guitar lessons. He and his former wife Jane (now divorced) have two children, Barnaby and Holly.

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