Meaning: Etta James, a renowned musician, made a profound statement about the deep personal connection she felt with certain songs. In this quote, she expressed that her musical journey begins and ends with these particular songs, emphasizing their significance in shaping her identity as an artist. She described these songs as having the power to touch her on a profound level, evoking emotions and experiences that lay dormant within her until she allowed them to surface through her music.

For Etta James, music was not just a form of artistic expression, but a means of self-discovery and emotional release. The quote suggests that the songs she connected with deeply served as a catalyst for introspection and personal growth. Through her music, she was able to tap into a part of herself that was previously unknown to her, unlocking a deeper understanding of her own emotions and experiences.

The phrase "laying hold of some part of me that I didn't even know was there until I let it out" conveys the transformative power of music in Etta James's life. It illustrates her journey of self-discovery and the revelation of hidden truths through the act of creating and performing music. The quote encapsulates the profound impact that these particular songs had on her, shaping her artistic identity and allowing her to connect with her audience on a deeply personal level.

Etta James's words highlight the universal nature of music as a medium for exploring and expressing one's innermost thoughts and feelings. Through her personal experience, she emphasizes the profound influence that certain songs can have on an individual, not only as a musician but as a human being. This sentiment resonates with artists and music lovers alike, as they recognize the transformative power of music in their own lives.

In conclusion, Etta James's quote captures the profound significance of certain songs in shaping her musical journey and personal growth. It serves as a testament to the transformative power of music in unlocking hidden emotions and experiences, and the profound connection that can be forged between an artist and their art. Her words inspire a deeper appreciation for the emotional depth and introspective nature of music, reminding us of its ability to touch us on a profound level and reveal aspects of ourselves that were previously unknown.