The Color Blue: A Deep Dive into Racial Identity and Emotion

This chapter examines Louis Armstrong's 1951 recording of 'What Did I Do to Be So Black and Blue?', exploring its poignant themes of racial identity and societal rejection. It also discusses the historical significance of the color blue in African American culture, connecting musical expression with broader narratives of struggle and resilience. The chapter intertwines personal and collective histories, highlighting the emotional depths captured in both Armstrong's performance and the context of Black musical traditions.