"We all kind of grew up together with Art Blakey because we all were young and he gave us a chance to write. We had to write something that was good and to sit up with a great guy like Art Blakey and watch him"

This quote by Freddie Hubbard speaks to the effect Art Blakey had on his profession and the professions of many other young jazz artists. Blakey was a prominent jazz drummer and bandleader who offered many young musicians an opportunity to write and perform. Hubbard was one of those musicians, and he speaks fondly of the experience of having the ability to compose and carry out with Blakey. He likewise mentions the advantage of being able to see Blakey perform, which was an excellent learning experience for Hubbard and other young artists. This quote speaks to the effect Blakey had on the jazz community, and how he offered young musicians a possibility to grow and develop their skills. It likewise speaks with the regard and affection Hubbard had for Blakey, and how he had the ability to learn from him and grow as a musician.