Born With The Blues

Brownie McGhee's song "Born With The Blues" is a poignant reflection on a life steeped in hardship and resilience. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of McGhee's journey from childhood to adulthood, marked by the omnipresence of the blues. He speaks of inheriting the blues from his parents, suggesting that this emotional and cultural burden is almost a familial legacy. This notion of being 'born with the blues' underscores a sense of inevitability and acceptance of his life's struggles.

The song delves into McGhee's personal experiences, using powerful imagery to convey his hardships. He describes using his guitar as a pillow and hollow logs as his bed, emphasizing a life of poverty and constant movement. The blues, in this context, is not just a musical genre but a companion and a means of survival. McGhee's lyrics reveal a deep connection to the blues, not just as a form of expression but as a fundamental part of his existence. The repeated refrain about his parents also having the blues reinforces the idea that this is a generational struggle, one that he has inherited and continues to live with.

Despite the somber tone, there is a sense of resilience and defiance in McGhee's words. He acknowledges his hardships and the emotional toll they take, yet he remains unashamed. This defiance is a crucial aspect of the blues tradition, where the expression of pain and suffering is also a form of empowerment. McGhee's ability to articulate his struggles through music becomes a testament to his strength and resilience. The song ultimately serves as a powerful narrative of survival, identity, and the enduring spirit of the blues.