"There were so many individual styles thirty or forty years ago"

This quote by Buddy Rich is describing the musical styles of the past. He is stating that thirty or forty years earlier, there were a range of different musical styles that were popular. This might be referring to the different genres of music that were popular at the time, such as jazz, rock, pop, and classical. It might also be referring to the various designs of playing within each genre, such as swing, bebop, and blend. Rich is likely revealing his affection for the variety of musical styles that were readily available during this time period. He is most likely also expressing his gratitude for the imagination and innovation of the artists of the past. This quote is a pointer that music is constantly evolving which there is always something brand-new to find.