Skip to content

Blues Quote by Jelly Roll Morton

“I do not claim any of the creation of the blues, although I have written many of them even before Mr. Handy had any blues published. I heard them when I was knee-high to a duck.” quote by Jelly Roll Morton
Download Open image
“I do not claim any of the creation of the blues, although I have written many of them even before Mr. Handy had any blues published. I heard them when I was knee-high to a duck.”

Jelly Roll Morton

About This Quote

Source Interview: 1920s Jazz Radio Broadcast, 1925

He acknowledges early exposure to blues and his role in shaping it, despite not originating the genre.

In simple terms: He learned blues early and helped develop it.

Key Takeaway

Recognize influences while creating.

Themes

music history creativity heritage

Mood

reflective proud

Type

historical musical

When to use this quote

  • songwriting
  • performance
  • music education
  • cultural preservation

Key Concepts

blues origins cultural transmission

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance credit to predecessors with your own contributions?
  • What defines true originality in music?
A Different Perspective

He may overstate his influence without evidence.

3.1 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Jelly Roll Morton

Explore all 12 Jelly Roll Morton quotes

More Blues quotes

Browse all 1,026 Blues quotes