St. Louis Blues

Bessie Smith's rendition of 'St. Louis Blues' is a poignant exploration of heartache, longing, and resilience. The song opens with the singer expressing her sorrow at seeing the evening sun go down, a metaphor for the end of a relationship. Her lover has left town, and she is left grappling with the pain of his absence. The repetition of the line 'Feel tomorrow like I feel today' underscores the depth of her despair, suggesting that her sorrow is unending and inescapable.

The lyrics also delve into themes of jealousy and competition, as the singer laments the influence of a 'St. Louis woman with her diamond rings' who has seemingly lured her man away. This woman is depicted as manipulative, using her material wealth and appearance to control the man. The singer's visit to a gypsy for a fortune-telling session highlights her desperation and her willingness to seek any means to win her lover back. The gypsy's advice to avoid wearing black and to go to St. Louis offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting that there is still a chance for reconciliation.

Throughout the song, Bessie Smith's powerful voice conveys a range of emotions, from deep sorrow to fierce determination. The vivid imagery, such as the comparison of her love to a schoolboy's love for pie and a Kentucky Colonel's love for mint and rye, adds a touch of humor and relatability to the otherwise somber narrative. The song also touches on themes of racial identity and pride, with references to the man's dark complexion and his prowess in various aspects of life. 'St. Louis Blues' is a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences, capturing the complexities of love, loss, and resilience in the face of adversity.