I, of course, wanted to play real jazz. When we played pop tunes, and naturally we had to, I wanted those pops to kick! Not loud and fast, understand, but smoothly and with a definite punch.
Count BasieRead
All I wanted was to be big, to be in show business and to travel ... and that's what I've been doing all my life.
Interpretation
The speaker expresses a lifelong pursuit of dreams in show business and travel.
In this quote, Count Basie reflects on his aspirations and achievements throughout his life. He conveys the idea that his desire to become significant and to engage in show business has not only been a guiding ambition but has also shaped his entire journey, underscoring the importance of following one's dreams and passions.
In practice
This quote can be used in a motivational speech to inspire young artists to pursue their dreams.
I, of course, wanted to play real jazz. When we played pop tunes, and naturally we had to, I wanted those pops to kick! Not loud and fast, understand, but smoothly and with a definite punch.
If you find a note tonight that sounds good, play the same damn note every night!
I'll always remember when I first heard Lester [Young]. I'd never heard anyone like him before. He was a stylist with a different sound. A sound I'd never heard before or since. To be honest with you, I didn't much like it at first.
I'm saying: to be continued, until we meet again. Meanwhile, keep on listening and tapping your feet.
I never thought innovation as such was very important. Not when you have to think about it... If you're going to come up with a new direction or a really new way to do something, you'll do it by just playing your stuff and letting it ride. The real innovators did their innovating by just being themselves.
Of course, there are a lot of ways you can treat the blues, but it will still be the blues.
In essence, I owe my career to Garry Marshall. There was no known reason for him to hire me for 'Pretty Woman.'
The blaze of reputation cannot be blown out, but it often dies in the socket; a very few names may be considered as perpetual lamps that shine unconsumed.
Don't become a seeker of success. Become a person of value.
All achievements, all earned riches, have their beginning in an idea.
Everybody in the minor leagues - if you're a player, an announcer, whatever - wants to be in the big leagues.
It was such a leap in my career when 'Truman Show' came along. It's always been a long process for me insofar as recognition goes, but that's OK because you appreciate it when it comes.
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