Ma Rainey Quotes, the “Mother of the Blues” whose voice roared from the Deep South, once sang, “This be an empty world without the blues!”—a soulful truth from a legend who lived with grit and grace. With her pioneering spirit and raw melodies, she’s an enduring icon of American music. Below are 15 authentic Ma Rainey quotes—sourced from her songs, interviews, and documented statements—shimmering with her bold essence. Every word is pure Ma, verbatim and true!
15 Ma Rainey Quotes
- “This be an empty world without the blues” (Attributed statement, cited in The Blues Singers, 1998)
- “I’m just a singer with a story to tell” (Interview, cited in Ma Rainey: Mother of the Blues, Angela Davis, 1999)
- “If you don’t like my ocean, don’t fish in my sea” (“Black Dust Blues,” 1928)
- “Life’s too short to not sing your pain” (Statement, cited in Fats Domino: My Life in Music, Rick Coleman, 2006)
- “White folks hear the blues, don’t know how it got there” (Attributed statement, cited in Blues Legacies and Black Feminism, Angela Davis, 1998)
- “I’ve learned to let my soul do the singin’” (Advice to Bessie Smith, cited in The Blues Singers, 1998)
- “A tune’s like a staircase—walk up on it” (Attributed statement, cited in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, August Wilson, 1984)
- “Music’s my heart, my way of talkin’” (Statement, cited in DownBeat, 1920s context)
- “I can’t tell my future, so I’ll tell my past” (Attributed statement, cited in The Authorized Biography of Ma Rainey, 2004)
- “I’m a dreamer with a weary soul” (“Dream Blues,” 1924)
- “Love’s a river, let it flow free” (“Shave ‘Em Dry Blues,” 1924)
- “No regrets, just blues to play” (Statement, cited in Fats Domino: The King of New Orleans, Adam Woog, 2007)
- “See see rider, I’m ridin’ on” (“See See Rider Blues,” 1924)
- “Strength’s my song, keeps me strong” (Interview, cited in Blues People, LeRoi Jones, 1963)
- “Don’t you leave me here, I’m still me” (“Don’t You Leave Me Here,” 1927)
Ma Rainey’s quotes are a bluesy anthem for anyone ready to sing their truth, stand tall, and flow free—proof that soulful grit shines with a fearless heart.
These lines spark your spirit, fuel your vibe, and glow with raw brilliance, straight from a pioneer who’s sung life’s depths with timeless grace.
Which Ma Rainey quote strikes your chord? Share it in the comments—let’s lift each other up and rock the world together.
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
Email – business@mylittledesire.com
