"I was very young at the time, and I mainly appreciated their vocal qualities, even though I was already living as they did - as black performers in a white world"

The quote by Bobby Short reflects a confluence of individual and expert experiences framed by race and artistry. Bobby Short, renowned for his profession as a cabaret singer and pianist, subtly communicates his early and instinctive connection to the complexities of racial dynamics within the music market and society at large.

The phrase "I was really young at the time" highlights a point in Bobby Short's life when he was still developing his understanding and identity. Youth often includes a sense of innocence or naiveté, which can influence how one views and engages with complex social narratives, like race. At this stage, Short's focus was mostly on the "singing qualities" of his musical impacts, suggesting an appreciation for the aesthetic and technical aspects of music rather than the social ramifications or the historic struggles linked with his life as an African-American artist.

The expression "I mainly appreciated their vocal qualities" underscores the affection Short had for the craft and artistry of his musical predecessors. This recommendation suggests a developmental duration where creative skill and expression were main to his gratitude, possibly before he completely understood the more comprehensive socio-cultural significance of their work.

The latter half of the quote, "even though I was currently living as they did - as black entertainers in a white world", exposes an early life matching the difficulties his impacts dealt with-- navigating a mainly white society. This part of the quote resolves the persistent racial barriers and the duality of presence that black performers often experience, requiring to adjust and flourish in environments that are not inherently inclusive or fair.

In essence, Bobby Short's words catch the double awakening of artistry and social awareness. As he matured, there likely came a deeper understanding of the racial characteristics at play in his life and career, deepening his appreciation for the strength and impact of those black performers who came before him. This reflection mirrors the journey of lots of artists who learn to navigate and eventually wield their special cultural heritage as a poignant impact in their work and their more comprehensive societal contributions.