Meaning: The quote "Blues is a natural fact, is something that a fellow lives. If you don't live it you don't have it. Young people have forgotten to cry the blues. Now they talk and get lawyers and things." by Big Broonzy, also known as Big Bill Broonzy, is a reflection on the essence of blues music and its connection to lived experiences. Broonzy, a prolific blues musician, songwriter, and guitarist, is known for his influential contributions to the development of blues music in the 20th century.

In this quote, Broonzy emphasizes the authenticity and raw emotional expression that is inherent in the blues. He suggests that blues is not just a musical genre or a set of notes and chords, but rather a deeply rooted aspect of life that is intimately tied to personal experiences and hardships. By stating that "Blues is a natural fact, is something that a fellow lives," Broonzy underscores the idea that the blues is not something that can be simulated or replicated artificially; it is a genuine and lived reality for those who have experienced its trials and tribulations.

The phrase "If you don't live it you don't have it" further emphasizes the authenticity and experiential nature of the blues. Broonzy implies that true understanding and embodiment of the blues can only come from personal encounters with its themes of struggle, loss, and resilience. It cannot simply be learned or adopted as a musical style without a genuine connection to its emotional core.

Broonzy's observation about young people "have forgotten to cry the blues" and instead "talk and get lawyers and things" reflects his concern about the evolving nature of blues music and its departure from its roots. He laments the shift away from the raw emotional expression and vulnerability that characterized traditional blues music, suggesting that contemporary society's focus on material pursuits and legal matters has led to a disconnection from the authentic emotional depth of the blues.

Overall, Broonzy's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the deeply personal and experiential nature of the blues. It underscores the importance of genuine lived experiences and emotional authenticity in the expression of this musical genre. Furthermore, it prompts reflection on the evolution of blues music and the potential impact of societal changes on its traditional themes and expressions.

In summary, the quote by Big Bill Broonzy encapsulates the essence of blues as a lived reality, emphasizing the significance of personal experiences and emotional authenticity in the expression of this influential musical genre. It serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the evolving nature of blues music and its connection to societal shifts, while reaffirming the enduring importance of genuine emotional expression in the blues tradition.