If you want to be a good blues singer, people are going to be down on you, so dress like you're going to the bank to borrow money.
B. B. KingRead
I just wonder where I was when the talent was being given out, like George Benson, Kenny Burrell, Eric Clapton... oh, there's many more! I wouldn't want to be like them, you understand, but I'd like to be equal, if you will.
Interpretation
What this quote means
B.B. King expresses a feeling of awe towards renowned guitarists while conveying a desire for recognition as an equal.
In this quote, B.B. King reflects on his admiration for legendary guitarists like George Benson, Kenny Burrell, and Eric Clapton. He doesn't wish to emulate them exactly, but instead hopes for acknowledgment on the same level, which highlights both his humility and aspiration within the world of music. His words encapsulate the blend of respect for peers and the quest for personal validation in one's own artistic journey.
Themes
TalentEqualityMusicAdmirationAspiration
In practice
Example use cases
During a music workshop, this quote can inspire aspiring musicians to appreciate their own journey.
More from B. B. King
All quotes βThe way I feel today, as long as my health is good and I can handle myself well and people still come to my concerts, still buy my CDs, I'll keep playing until I feel like I can't.
B. B. KingRead
Everything I record, I just try to sound like me and come up with songs that suit what I do and then just go for it. I never know what the public's going to like, anyway.
B. B. KingRead
A guitar is like an old friend that is there with me.
B. B. KingRead
I have not been a good father, but no father has loved his children more. Like my father, I decided the best thing I could do for my kids was work and provide. Fortunately, I've been able to do that. Unfortunately, my work was on the road, and that's meant a life of one-nighters.
B. B. KingRead
People all over the world have problems. And as long as people have problems, the blues can never die.
B. B. KingRead
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