I stone got crazy when I saw somebody run down them strings with a bottleneck. My eyes lit up like a Christmas tree and I said that I had to learn.

The quote "I stone got crazy when I saw somebody run down them strings with a bottleneck. My eyes lit up like a Christmas tree and I said that I had to learn." by Muddy Waters reflects his initial fascination and passion for the blues guitar technique known as the bottleneck or slide guitar. Waters describes how seeing someone play this technique for the first time sparked an overwhelming sense of excitement and inspiration in him. The phrase "my eyes lit up like a Christmas tree" illustrates how profound this moment was for him, likening it to the feeling of sheer joy and revelation that comes with a sudden, powerful realization.

Muddy Waters' use of the word "stone" to describe his reaction underscores how strongly he was moved by the sight of the slide guitar technique. This technique involves using a bottleneck (or glass tube) to slide up and down the guitar strings, creating a unique, smooth sound that became a hallmark of the blues genre. The phrase "I had to learn" reflects his drive and determination to master this technique, marking a turning point in his musical journey. It reveals the deep connection between Waters and the blues genre, and his relentless pursuit of learning and perfecting his craft.

The moment Waters describes signifies the transformation of his musical career. After being captivated by the power of the bottleneck guitar, he was determined to incorporate this style into his own playing. This moment of discovery ultimately led him to become one of the most influential blues musicians in history, helping to shape the sound of Chicago blues and influencing generations of artists.

Ultimately, Waters' quote speaks to the influence of inspiration and the profound effect that hearing a new technique can have on an artist’s trajectory. His excitement about the bottleneck slide reflects how significant moments of artistic discovery can fuel a lifelong commitment to mastering a craft and contributing to the evolution of a genre.