Equal Quote by B. B. King
“It seems like I always had to work harder than other people. Those nights when everybody else is asleep, and you sit in your room trying to play scales. I just wonder where I was when the talent was being given out, like George Benson, Kenny Burrell, Eric Clapton ... oh, there's many more! I wouldn't want to be like them, you understand, but I'd like to be equal, if you will.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Musician's Reflection, 2015
Feeling of unfair effort compared to naturally gifted peers, questioning why talent seems pre‑distributed.
In simple terms: Hard work feels unequal when others seem born with talent.
Accept effort, seek growth, not comparison.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- practice sessions
- career development
- self‑assessment
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you leverage your hard work into unique strengths?
- What does “equality” mean in artistic development?
Talent also requires discipline and opportunity, not just innate skill.