Big Bill Broonzy (1893-1958)

 Big Bill Broonzy (1893-1958) was a popular blues musician during the 1930's and a major contributor to the Chicago blues scene before World War II.  He grew up in the South and moved North as he became a professional musician. His music during the 1930's was mainly in the style of "city blues," an often more methodical style of blues created as southern blues musicians moved North during the Great Migration.

 

Big Bill Broonzy playing his guitar

Broonzy's song "Black, Brown, and White" addresses the inequality and racism experienced by African Americans in the 20's and 30's. The lyrics mention unequal employment opportunities for black and white Americans, unequal salary, Jim Crow laws, and question why a black man who has fought for his country should have to endure racism back at home. Although the song became a staple of his live concerts, record companies refused to record the song until years later.

"When Will I Get to Be Called a Man," like "Black, Brown, and White," describes the inequality of race relations. The lyrics focus on the subordinate identity of African Americans, especially the unequal treatment of those who fought in WWI.