Meaning: The quote "Since you knew they was goin' to cheat you anyway, I recorded under any name with all of 'em" by John Lee Hooker, the influential blues musician, reflects a deep sense of mistrust and frustration in the music industry. This quote encapsulates the challenges faced by many artists, particularly in the early days of the music business, where exploitation and dishonesty were prevalent.

John Lee Hooker was a highly respected and influential figure in the world of blues music. Born in Mississippi in 1917, he became known for his unique guitar style and emotive vocals, which earned him a place in the Blues Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Throughout his career, Hooker experienced the complexities and injustices of the music industry, which are echoed in the quote.

The quote suggests that Hooker felt compelled to take evasive action in response to the perceived unscrupulous behavior of those in the industry. By recording under different names, he sought to protect his work and maintain a degree of control over his music. This defensive approach speaks to the challenges faced by many artists who struggled to navigate an industry fraught with exploitation and betrayal.

The sentiment expressed in the quote reflects a broader issue within the music industry, where artists have historically been vulnerable to exploitation by record labels, managers, and other industry figures. From unfair contracts and withheld royalties to unauthorized use of music, artists have faced numerous challenges in protecting their rights and ensuring fair treatment.

In the early days of the music industry, many artists, particularly those from marginalized communities, were taken advantage of by those in positions of power. This exploitation often led to artists feeling disillusioned and distrusting of the industry as a whole. The quote by John Lee Hooker captures this sense of disillusionment and the lengths to which artists had to go to protect themselves and their work.

The quote also speaks to the resilience and resourcefulness of artists in the face of adversity. Despite the challenges and mistreatment they encountered, many artists found ways to assert their agency and protect their creative output. Recording under pseudonyms or using alternative means to navigate the industry allowed artists to maintain a degree of control and autonomy in an environment that often sought to undermine them.

Ultimately, the quote by John Lee Hooker serves as a poignant reminder of the injustices that have plagued the music industry and the resilience of artists who have sought to assert their independence and protect their creative endeavors. It sheds light on the complexities of navigating an industry where exploitation and mistrust have been pervasive, while also highlighting the determination of artists to safeguard their artistry in the face of adversity.