"The colored folks been singing it and playing it just like I'm doin' now, man, for more years than I know. I got it from them"
- Elvis Presley
About this Quote
In this quote, Elvis Presley is acknowledging the impact of African American artists on his own music. He acknowledges that the design of music he is performing has actually been around for many years, and he credits the "colored folks" for developing and popularizing it. By saying "I got it from them," Elvis is acknowledging that he is not the begetter of this music, however rather he has actually discovered and adjusted it from the African American neighborhood. This quote highlights the cultural appropriation that has occurred in the music market, where white artists often acquire popularity and success by performing music that was initially produced by individuals of color.
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