Meaning: The quote "I met Sonny after (Blind Boy) Fuller died, and me and Sonny played in the streets like everybody else" is an insightful reflection by Brownie McGhee, a renowned blues musician. The quote captures a pivotal moment in McGhee's life and provides a glimpse into the world of street musicians and the rich tradition of blues music.

Brownie McGhee was an influential figure in the blues community, known for his exceptional guitar skills and soulful vocals. He was born in 1915 in Knoxville, Tennessee, and grew up immersed in the vibrant blues scene of the American South. His encounter with Sonny Terry, a harmonica player, was a significant turning point in his career.

The quote refers to the period following the death of Blind Boy Fuller, a prominent blues musician who had a profound impact on McGhee's life and career. Fuller's passing marked a transition for McGhee, and it was during this time that he met Sonny Terry. The duo of McGhee and Terry would go on to become one of the most iconic partnerships in blues history.

The image of McGhee and Sonny playing in the streets speaks to the raw and authentic nature of their music. Street performances were a common practice for blues musicians, providing them with a platform to connect with their audience in an intimate and unfiltered manner. It was in these impromptu performances that the essence of the blues was truly felt, as musicians poured their hearts and souls into their music, often drawing from their own experiences of hardship and resilience.

The quote also alludes to the sense of community and camaraderie that characterized the blues scene. McGhee's reference to playing in the streets "like everybody else" underscores the shared experience of struggle and creativity among blues musicians. It speaks to the democratizing power of music, transcending social barriers and bringing people together through the universal language of the blues.

Furthermore, the quote sheds light on the personal connection between McGhee and Sonny Terry. Their partnership was not just a professional collaboration but also a deep friendship rooted in mutual respect and a shared passion for the blues. Together, they brought a new dimension to the blues genre, with McGhee's intricate guitar work complementing Terry's virtuosic harmonica playing.

In a broader context, the quote serves as a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of the blues. Despite the challenges and setbacks that McGhee faced, he found solace and purpose in the music that he and Sonny Terry created together. Their performances in the streets symbolize the indomitable nature of the blues, transcending adversity and persevering through the power of artistic expression.

In conclusion, Brownie McGhee's quote offers a poignant glimpse into the world of blues music, capturing the essence of community, creativity, and perseverance. It reflects a pivotal moment in McGhee's life and career, as well as the enduring legacy of the blues as a vehicle for personal and collective expression. McGhee's words resonate with the raw authenticity and emotional depth that define the blues, serving as a reminder of its enduring impact on the cultural landscape.