Meaning: This quote by John Lee Hooker, a renowned blues musician, encapsulates the essence of the blues as a deeply personal and individualistic form of musical expression. In his statement, Hooker reflects on the unique approach to playing the blues that he learned from Will Moore, highlighting the deeply personal and distinctive nature of the blues as a musical genre. This quote sheds light on the emotional depth and personal connection that musicians bring to their interpretation and performance of the blues, making it a powerful form of artistic expression.

John Lee Hooker was a pivotal figure in the development and popularization of the blues genre. His distinctive style, characterized by its raw intensity and emotional resonance, has left an indelible mark on the music world. Throughout his career, Hooker's music reflected the essence of the blues as a deeply personal and emotive form of expression, and his quote serves as a testament to the individuality and uniqueness that he brought to the genre.

When Hooker speaks of the blues as "something different," he alludes to the deeply personal and idiosyncratic nature of the genre. Unlike other musical styles, the blues is rooted in individual experience and emotion, often serving as a means of expressing and processing intense feelings such as sorrow, longing, and resilience. This individualistic approach to the blues is what sets it apart from other musical genres, as it invites each musician to infuse their own experiences and emotions into their interpretation of the music.

The influence of Will Moore, as mentioned in the quote, speaks to the significance of mentorship and personal guidance in the development of an artist's unique approach to the blues. Moore's teachings likely played a crucial role in shaping Hooker's understanding and interpretation of the blues, contributing to the evolution of his distinctive style. This highlights the importance of passing down the tradition of the blues through personal mentorship and shared experiences, allowing each new generation of musicians to bring their own individuality to the genre.

In essence, the blues is not just a musical form but a deeply personal and emotional journey for the musician. It is a means of channeling and expressing the depths of human experience, often rooted in hardship and struggle. This personal connection to the music, as exemplified by John Lee Hooker and his mentor Will Moore, underscores the profound impact that the blues has had on countless musicians and audiences alike.

The quote also emphasizes the deeply personal and subjective nature of the blues, suggesting that there is no singular "correct" way to play it. Instead, each musician brings their own interpretation and emotional resonance to the music, resulting in a rich tapestry of individual styles and expressions. This diversity within the blues genre is what makes it so captivating and enduring, as it continues to evolve and adapt to the experiences and perspectives of each new generation of artists.

In conclusion, John Lee Hooker's quote serves as a poignant reflection on the deeply personal and individualistic nature of the blues. It highlights the emotional depth and unique interpretation that musicians bring to the genre, shaping it into something deeply personal and different for each artist. Through his words, Hooker captures the essence of the blues as a powerful form of artistic expression, rooted in personal experience and emotional resonance.