Dust My Broom
Elmore James & Robert Johnson Lyrics

The song "Dust My Broom" by Elmore James and Robert Johnson is a classic blues record that explores themes of heartbreak, infidelity, and the desire for escape. The song's opening line, "I'm gon' get up in the mornin', I believe I'll dust my broom," suggests a sense of agency and determination on the part of the singer. He is ready to move on and "dust off" his troubles, including a girlfriend who has been unfaithful to him with a "black man." The lyrics go on to describe the singer's attempts to track down his girlfriend, from writing letters and telephoning every town he knows, to contemplating far-flung destinations such as the Philippines and Ethiopia.

Throughout the song, the singer expresses his dissatisfaction with his girlfriend's behavior, stating that he doesn't want a woman who is with every "downtown man she meet[s]." The lyrics suggest a sense of betrayal and bitterness as the singer considers his options for finding a new partner or simply returning home. Overall, the song is a powerful representation of the blues genre, with its mournful melody and poetic lyrics revealing the deep emotion and pain that can arise from romantic relationships.