"The blues is the foundation, and it's got to carry the top. The other part of the scene, the rock 'n' roll and the jazz, are the walls of the blues."
About Luther Allison
Luther Allison — Life and Legacy
Luther Allison was a significant figure in the blues genre, celebrated for his emotive performances and profound lyrics. His music often explored themes of resilience and freedom, drawing from his own life experiences. In his quote, 'The blues is a feeling,' Allison encapsulates the emotional depth that defines his work, suggesting that blues transcends mere musical notes to convey heartfelt stories of struggle and triumph. Allison's approach to music was deeply personal; he believed in the power of authenticity, as reflected in his statement, 'You have to be true to yourself.' This perspective not only shaped his artistry but also resonated with fans who found solace in his honesty. His ability to connect with audiences through raw emotion set him apart in a crowded music landscape, challenging norms and expectations within the genre. Today, Luther Allison's quotes and music continue to inspire, reminding listeners of the strength found in vulnerability and the importance of perseverance. His legacy lives on, influencing new generations of musicians and fans alike, as they navigate their own journeys of resilience and self-discovery.
Quote collection
Luther Allison quotes
20 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"I look in music magazines now and see things on Luther Allison, and my name's getting out there more, thanks to all the good people at Alligator Records and at my management company."
"In the blues, it just takes so long for us to get recognized."
"Leave your ego, play the music, love the people."
"I have as much input to the blues; I just never got the chance, the opportunity or maybe the respect."
"In the States, it takes you a lifetime just to get from Chicago's South Side to the West Side."
"When I got to Chicago I had to find my way."
"But my big thing was always the blues."
"I've been waiting for that bright sunshine to show up and shine in my back door someday."
"Before I left, I opened a lot of doors for a lot of people to play the blues."
"Me being a skinny guy, I could crawl into the steel pit."
"I think I'm the most positive guy still going in my generation, and I'm out there to prove that."
"I want people to recognize Luther Allison when I play."
"What I want to do, is play music for somebody who believe in me."
"Coming from the cotton plantation, the southern regions, I was brought up with real nice kids, mannered kids, who would go to church on Sunday."
"I want to play in a place people want to hear me."
"Well, I first started going to Europe in the late '70s."
"I don't want to be in some big beautiful place that nobody want me, because I play the blues."
"Well, I've had to deal with everything in my life... leavin' the family, learnin' what not and what to do."
"Jonny Lang has the power to move the music into the next millennium by reaching the ears of a new generation. The great musicians have the power to break all of the 'isms'-race, age, sex, et cetera. Jonny Lang is one of those musicians."