Meaning: This quote by John Lee Hooker, a prominent blues musician, speaks to the lack of mainstream promotion and support for blues music compared to other genres that receive heavy rotation on TV and radio. Hooker's words convey a sense of frustration with the commercialization and forced consumption of music that lacks authenticity and artistic depth.

Blues music has a rich history rooted in African American culture and experience. It emerged in the late 19th century, originating in the Deep South of the United States, and has since evolved into various subgenres such as Delta blues, Chicago blues, and electric blues. The genre is characterized by its emotive lyrics, soulful melodies, and distinctive use of the blues scale. Blues musicians often draw from personal hardships and societal injustices to create music that resonates with the human experience.

Despite its cultural significance and influence on popular music, the blues has historically struggled to gain widespread recognition and support from mainstream media outlets. This lack of exposure has been a point of contention for many blues artists, including John Lee Hooker, who felt that the genre was overshadowed by more commercially viable styles of music. The quote reflects Hooker's belief that the blues are marginalized in favor of music that is heavily promoted and imposed on audiences through mass media channels.

In today's music industry, the dominance of TV and radio in shaping musical trends and consumer preferences remains significant. Commercial radio stations and television networks often dictate which songs and artists receive airplay, contributing to the saturation of certain genres while neglecting others. This phenomenon can be attributed to various factors, including corporate interests, marketability, and the influence of popular culture on music consumption.

As a result, many artists find themselves struggling to break through the barriers created by mainstream media's limited representation of diverse musical styles. The blues, with its raw and unfiltered expression of emotion, often falls outside the scope of what is deemed commercially viable by the entertainment industry. This marginalization has led to a lack of exposure for blues musicians and a reduced opportunity for their music to reach a wider audience.

In contrast, genres that are heavily promoted and backed by TV and radio tend to dominate the airwaves, shaping public perception and taste. This phenomenon can lead to a homogenization of musical content, where certain styles are prioritized at the expense of others. As John Lee Hooker suggests, such pervasive promotion can "choke stuff down people's throat," limiting their freedom of choice and exposure to a diverse range of musical experiences.

It's important to recognize the impact of media promotion on musical diversity and the representation of underrepresented genres such as the blues. While the quote reflects the frustration of a blues musician, it also sheds light on broader issues related to commercialization, artistic integrity, and the power dynamics within the music industry. As audiences, we have a role to play in seeking out and supporting a wide array of musical expressions, including those that may not receive the same level of backing from mainstream media channels. By embracing a more diverse musical landscape, we can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable music industry.