Strike Blues

John Lee Hooker's 'Strike Blues' is a poignant reflection on the hardships faced by workers during a labor strike. The song captures the anxiety and uncertainty that come with prolonged periods of unemployment and financial instability. Hooker's repetitive questioning, 'What in the world gonna become of me?' underscores the deep sense of despair and helplessness that many feel when their livelihoods are threatened. This refrain serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of economic struggles, making the song resonate with anyone who has faced similar challenges.

The mention of 'Paul Chrysler' and the 'ninety days' of being 'under' likely refers to a specific labor strike involving the Chrysler Corporation, a major American automobile manufacturer. This situates the song within a particular historical and social context, highlighting the widespread impact of industrial actions on workers' lives. The reference to the welfare office and the inadequate assistance provided ('one type-a, a-beans / And one can-a tripe') further emphasizes the dire circumstances faced by those affected by the strike. Hooker's refusal to accept this minimal aid ('I said: no') reflects a sense of dignity and resistance against the dehumanizing conditions imposed on the working class.

Musically, 'Strike Blues' is rooted in the traditional blues genre, characterized by its raw emotion and simple yet powerful instrumentation. Hooker's deep, gravelly voice and repetitive guitar riffs create an atmosphere of melancholy and tension, mirroring the song's themes of struggle and endurance. The blues has historically been a genre that gives voice to the marginalized and oppressed, and 'Strike Blues' is a quintessential example of this tradition. Through his music, Hooker not only tells a personal story but also gives a voice to the collective experience of many workers facing similar hardships.