Black and Blue (Fats Waller song)

"Black and Blue" is a jazz standard, originally titled "(What Did I Do to Be So) Black and Blue," composed by Fats Waller with lyrics by Andy Razaf and Harry Brooks. It was introduced in the 1929 Broadway revue Hot Chocolates.

The song is a poignant commentary on racial discrimination and the experience of being African American in the United States during the Jim Crow era. The lyrics explore themes of social exclusion, marginalization, and the search for identity in a prejudiced society. The speaker in the song questions what they have done to deserve the treatment they receive based solely on their race.

Despite the heavy subject matter, the song is often performed with a blend of humor and pathos, reflecting the resilience and wit often employed by African Americans as a coping mechanism in the face of adversity. Waller's own performances of "Black and Blue" are known for their jaunty piano playing and expressive vocals, which manage to convey both the pain and the defiance inherent in the lyrics.

"Black and Blue" has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, including Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Nina Simone, and Etta James, demonstrating its enduring relevance and impact. Each interpretation brings a unique perspective to the song's complex themes. The song remains a powerful and important work in the history of American music, serving as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and social justice.