They're not particular whether you're playing a flat 5th or a ruptured 129th as long as they can dance.
Dizzy GillespieRead
I think the idea is now for blacks to write about the history of our music. It's time for that, because whites have been doing it all the time. It's time for us to do it ourselves and tell it like it is.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Black artists should take control of their own musical narratives.
Dizzy Gillespie emphasizes the importance of Black musicians and writers in actively participating in the documentation and storytelling of their own musical heritage, rather than allowing it to be predominantly narrated by others. This call for ownership and authenticity highlights a need for a diverse perspective in the understanding and appreciation of music history.
Themes
MusicHistoryNarrativeOwnershipIdentity
In practice
Example use cases
In a panel discussion about the evolution of jazz music, this quote can highlight the importance of Black voices in music history.
More from Dizzy Gillespie
All quotes →How do I know why Miles walks off the stage? Why don't you ask him? And besides, maybe we'd all like to be like Miles, and just haven't got the guts.
Dizzy GillespieRead
I'd like to play for you one of my compositions, my only composition.
Dizzy GillespieRead
Learn to play the piano, man, and then you can figure out crazy solos of your own.
Dizzy GillespieRead
I don't care much about music. What I like is sounds.
Dizzy GillespieRead
I always try to teach by example and not force my ideas on a young musician. One of the reasons we're here is to be a part of this process of exchange.
Dizzy GillespieRead
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