Meaning: Alex Chilton, a musician known for his work with the bands The Box Tops and Big Star, made the above statement, reflecting on his time spent in Memphis in the late '70s and early '80s. The quote illustrates Chilton's deep connection to the music of the region and his ongoing exploration and incorporation of blues styles into his own work.

During his time in Memphis, Chilton immersed himself in the study of country blues players and their musical styles. This period of immersion and study left a lasting impact on his approach to creating music. He mentions that with every record he makes, he finds himself drawing from the blues styles that he had studied and remembered during his time in Memphis.

Chilton's statement speaks to the profound influence that the music of Memphis had on him and his artistic development. Memphis, with its rich musical heritage and vibrant blues scene, provided a fertile ground for Chilton to delve into the roots of American music and draw inspiration from the country blues players who had made a mark on the city's musical landscape.

The late '70s and early '80s were a pivotal time for Chilton as he delved into the deep well of blues music, honing his craft and expanding his musical vocabulary. This period of study and exploration would inform his musical output for years to come, as evidenced by his acknowledgment that the blues styles he encountered during his time in Memphis continued to find their way into his later recordings.

Chilton's approach to appropriating blues styles demonstrates a deep respect for the music and its origins. Rather than simply imitating or replicating the styles of the country blues players he studied, Chilton sought to internalize and reinterpret these influences, incorporating them into his own musical expression in a way that was authentic and meaningful to him.

It is worth noting that Chilton's musical journey was not confined to a single genre or style. While he drew heavily from the blues traditions he encountered in Memphis, he also ventured into other musical territories, experimenting with rock, pop, and alternative sounds. His ability to seamlessly integrate diverse influences into his music speaks to his versatility and open-minded approach to creativity.

In the broader context of music history, Chilton's quote serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of blues music and its impact on generations of musicians. The blues, with its raw emotional power and expressive qualities, continues to captivate and inspire artists across different genres and eras. Chilton's words reflect a universal truth about the enduring allure of the blues and its ability to resonate with musicians on a deep, personal level.

In conclusion, Alex Chilton's quote encapsulates his deep connection to the music of Memphis and the profound influence of the blues on his artistic journey. His time spent studying country blues players in the late '70s and early '80s left an indelible mark on his musical sensibilities, shaping the way he approached and incorporated blues styles into his own work. Chilton's acknowledgment of the enduring impact of these blues traditions on his music serves as a powerful reminder of the timeless allure and relevance of the blues in the broader landscape of musical creativity.