I learned from Ethel Waters, Duke Ellington, Adelaide…
![“I learned from Ethel Waters, Duke Ellington, Adelaide Hall, the Nicholas Brothers, the whole thing, the whole schmear. [The Cotton Club] was a great place because it hired us, for one thing, at a time when it was really rough [for Black performers].” quote by Lena Horne](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/e9f/lena-horne-15555_adelaide_i-learned-from-ethel-waters-duke-ellingt_478684.jpg)
“I learned from Ethel Waters, Duke Ellington, Adelaide Hall, the Nicholas Brothers, the whole thing, the whole schmear. [The Cotton Club] was a great place because it hired us, for one thing, at a time when it was really rough [for Black performers].”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
She credits the Cotton Club for providing rare employment to Black artists during a discriminatory era, highlighting its role as a crucial platform for talent.
In simple terms: The club gave Black performers jobs when opportunities were scarce.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and support venues that uplift marginalized artists.
Themes
racial equality
artistic opportunity
historical context
Mood
reflective
critical
hopeful
Type
historical
social commentary
When to use this quote
- musicians seeking gigs
- actors auditioning
- historical research on segregation
- advocacy for inclusive arts venues
Key Concepts
employment
cultural significance
racial barriers
Questions to Reflect On
- How can modern institutions learn from both the positive and negative aspects of such venues?
- What responsibilities do today’s cultural platforms have toward marginalized creators?
A Different Perspective
The club also perpetuated segregation and exoticized Black culture for white audiences.