I’ve worked as a trial lawyer for over 30 years. I’m also a musician–jazz and rock. BB King died recently, but his influence on so many people, me included, was profound. Blues form one of the fundamental basis for both jazz and rock music. But, you ask, what could the blues have done for me in a courtroom? Here are 3 ways he influenced me.
1. The essence of the blues is not necessarily sadness. People mistakenly think that and even the expression, “I’ve got the blues,” makes us think the music is about sadness. BB King certainly recognized the sadness of life, but the music is actually a celebration of the enduring human spirit that triumphs over sadness. In that way, it touches the deepest of human feelings. When I made my closing arguments to juries, no matter how nasty my client was, I always tried to humanize him. I tried to remind the jury that in spite of the horrible crime committed, the defendant was still a human. Mercy could be called for, at times.
2. Much of the blues involves improvisation. This means the musician leaves the written music and makes up melodies on the spot as he feels like it. Of course, BB King was a master at this with his famous quivering guitar solos. Improvisation in music reflects the human aspect also—life doesn’t always go as we plan. You have to jump in a “make it up” as you so through the ups and downs. In a trial, the one thing I could always predict was that it wouldn’t go as planned, no matter how much preparation I put into it. Often, I had to improvise on the spot. Maybe even change the entire defense in the middle of the trial, if some evidence popped up that surprised everyone.
3. As good as he was, even BB King played with other musicians. His solos were great, but a big part of playing music is playing it with other people. In blues, jazz, and rock, it’s the coordination of the musicians with each other that make the music memorable. In a trial, the same is important too. I never could do it alone. There were investigators, law clerks, other lawyers, and the client. Each of them contributed to the preparation of the case for trial and helped as the trial progressed. Especially, when I had to improvise I needed the support of the team.
I know BB King was quite old, but it’s still tough to think that such a legend is gone. Luckily, his work was recorded. Lots of it. If you have time this week, find some of his music and listen for his solos, his improvisation, and the way he fits in with the other musicians. You’ll be amazed!! Read about his influence on other musicians the world over: http://www.kansascity.com/entertainment/ent-columns-blogs/back-to-rockville/article21103590.html
