Meaning of "They Say I'm Different" by Betty Davis

"They Say I'm Different" is an anthem of self-empowerment and celebrating individuality. Betty Davis proudly embraces her uniqueness and challenges societal norms. The song opens with a reference to being compared to a piece of sugar cane, which symbolizes her sweetness at the core and her natural rhythm. Her great grandmother's rejection of the foxtrot in favor of boogieing to Elmore James represents a refusal to conform and a passion for a different style of music.

The mention of eating chitlins, which were traditionally associated with African American cuisine, showcases Betty Davis' cultural background and how she remains true to her roots. It also implies that she cannot help but be different since she was born and raised on this distinctive food.

Betty Davis then introduces her great grandfather, a blues lover who enjoyed rocking out to the likes of B.B. King and Jimmy Reed. This connection to blues music indicates her inherited taste for a genre that sometimes challenges social conventions. By referencing influential artists like Big Momma Thornton, Lightning Hopkins, Howling Wolf, Albert King, and Chuck Berry, she aligns herself with those who have also established their unique presence in the music industry.

The repetition of the line "That's why they say I'm different / That's why they say I'm strange" emphasizes society's tendency to label those who deviate from the norm. However, rather than viewing these labels as negative, Davis celebrates them. Being different and strange is what sets her apart and gives her an undeniable appeal and distinctiveness as an artist.

The extensive list of blues musicians, including T-Bone Walker, Muddy Waters, Leadbelly, Sonny Terry, Brownie Mcghee, Son House, Freddie King, and Bessie Smith, pays homage to the legends who have influenced her own musical style. The mention of Bo Diddley further reinforces the message of standing out, as his unique rhythm and signature style broke barriers in the music industry.

Ultimately, "They Say I'm Different" is a testament to embracing individuality, celebrating uniqueness, and defying societal expectations. It encourages listeners to be comfortable with who they are and to showcase their own distinctiveness rather than conforming to societal norms.