Meaning: This quote by Brownie McGhee, a renowned blues musician, reflects his experience of taking his music to the streets of Harlem and New York City. It encapsulates the resilience and determination required to survive as a street musician, and the significance of bringing music back to its roots. Let's explore the context and implications of this quote in more detail.

Brownie McGhee was a prominent figure in the blues and folk music scene during the mid-20th century. As an African American musician, he faced numerous challenges and obstacles in pursuing his musical career, particularly in the era of segregation and racial discrimination. McGhee's quote alludes to his collaboration with Sonny Terry, a harmonica player, as they ventured into the vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood of Harlem in New York City.

The mention of "street playin'" in Harlem and New York highlights the significance of street performance as a means of reaching audiences directly and making a living as a musician. Street playing, or busking, has a long-standing tradition in urban centers, providing a platform for artists to showcase their talents, connect with diverse audiences, and earn a livelihood. For McGhee and Terry, street playing was not just a means of survival, but also a way to bring their music to the people, bypassing traditional venues and engaging with the raw energy of the streets.

The reference to "survived" in the quote suggests the challenges and uncertainties associated with street playing. It speaks to the resilience and tenacity required to sustain a career as a street musician, facing the unpredictability of the streets, weather conditions, and the fluctuating reception of passersby. McGhee's choice of words conveys the notion of perseverance in the face of adversity, reflecting the grit and determination of artists committed to their craft.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the idea of "bringing it back to the streets again," signaling a return to the origins of their music and a reaffirmation of their connection to the grassroots. Despite any commercial success or recognition they may have attained, McGhee and Terry valued the authenticity and immediacy of street performance, recognizing the power of music to transcend social barriers and resonate with ordinary people on the streets.

In a broader context, this quote resonates with the rich tradition of African American music and its deep roots in the urban landscape. Harlem, in particular, has been a historic hub of artistic and cultural expression for the African American community, giving rise to influential musical genres such as jazz, blues, and gospel. By taking their music to the streets of Harlem and New York, McGhee and Terry were participating in a tradition that has long been integral to the cultural fabric of the city, contributing to its vibrant tapestry of sounds and rhythms.

In conclusion, Brownie McGhee's quote offers a poignant glimpse into the world of street musicians, encapsulating the challenges, resilience, and sense of purpose that characterize their experiences. It speaks to the enduring spirit of artists who find fulfillment and sustenance through their music, even in the most unassuming and unprivileged spaces. Through their street playing in Harlem and New York, McGhee and Terry not only survived but also reaffirmed the enduring power of music to thrive in the grassroots of urban life.

The quote serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of street performance as a vital and authentic form of musical expression, embodying the spirit of perseverance and the unyielding commitment to bring music to the people, wherever they may be.