You've Got To Give Me Some

Bessie Smith's song 'You've Got To Give Me Some' is a masterclass in the use of double entendre, a common technique in blues music that allows for multiple interpretations of the lyrics. On the surface, the song appears to be a playful request for various items, from meat to candy to cream. However, the underlying meaning is a candid expression of sexual desire and longing, a theme that was often explored in the blues genre, especially by female artists who used their music to assert their own needs and desires in a society that often suppressed them.

The lyrics are filled with clever metaphors and innuendos. For instance, when Smith sings about craving 'round steak' or a 'sweet sweet lollipop,' she is not just talking about food but is using these items as symbols for physical affection and intimacy. The repeated plea, 'You gotta give me some,' underscores a sense of urgency and desperation, highlighting the intensity of her longing. This use of everyday items to represent deeper, more intimate desires is a hallmark of blues music, allowing artists to discuss taboo subjects in a way that was both accessible and socially acceptable.

Bessie Smith, known as the 'Empress of the Blues,' was a pioneering figure in the early 20th century music scene. Her powerful voice and emotive delivery brought a raw honesty to her performances, making her one of the most influential blues singers of her time. 'You've Got To Give Me Some' is a perfect example of how she used her music to explore complex emotions and societal issues, all while entertaining her audience with wit and charm. The song not only showcases her vocal prowess but also her ability to navigate and challenge the cultural norms of her era through her art.