Meaning: Ruth Brown's quote "There was a time we decided that it was songs that were done especially from my background because of the things we were dealing with, but nowadays, anybody who has a need, and can find the need, they can sing the blues" speaks to the evolution and inclusivity of the blues genre. Ruth Brown was a prominent American blues singer and actress who played a significant role in shaping the landscape of blues music during the mid-20th century. Her statement reflects the changing dynamics of the blues genre and its accessibility to a wider range of artists and experiences.

The blues genre has deep roots in African-American history and culture, originating from the experiences of African-American communities in the southern United States. It served as a powerful form of expression for the struggles, hardships, and emotions faced by these communities, often stemming from the legacy of slavery, discrimination, and social inequality. Early blues music was deeply rooted in the African-American experience, reflecting the pain, resilience, and hope of a marginalized community.

Ruth Brown's quote acknowledges the historical context of blues music, where it was initially seen as a form of expression specifically tailored to the experiences of the African-American community. The music was a way for people to communicate their struggles, joys, and sorrows in a society that often marginalized their voices. However, as time progressed, the blues genre began to transcend its original cultural boundaries and became more inclusive, allowing artists from diverse backgrounds to find a voice within its expressive and emotive style.

The quote also emphasizes the universal nature of human emotions and struggles, suggesting that anyone who has experienced hardship and can relate to the deep emotions expressed in blues music can sing the blues. This sentiment speaks to the democratization of the blues genre, allowing individuals from various backgrounds to connect with and express themselves through this powerful musical form.

The evolution of the blues genre has seen it grow beyond its original cultural context, embracing a diverse range of artists and experiences. This inclusivity has enriched the genre, allowing for a broader spectrum of stories and emotions to be shared through its music. As a result, the blues has become a global phenomenon, with artists from all walks of life finding inspiration and solace in its expressive and soul-stirring melodies.

Ruth Brown's quote serves as a testament to the enduring relevance and adaptability of the blues genre. It highlights the genre's ability to resonate with the human experience, transcending cultural and historical boundaries to offer a voice to those who have faced adversity and struggle. The evolution of the blues genre reflects the ongoing journey of music as a universal language that speaks to the shared emotions and experiences of humanity.

In conclusion, Ruth Brown's quote encapsulates the transformation and inclusivity of the blues genre, acknowledging its historical roots while emphasizing its capacity to connect with a diverse range of artists and experiences. The blues has evolved into a universal form of musical expression, offering solace and a voice to those who have faced hardship and adversity, regardless of their background or cultural origins. It continues to serve as a poignant and resonant art form that speaks to the universal human experience.