"You need better technique than I have to play jazz, but what you have to do is the same thing, isn't it?"
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Charlie Watts, the prominent drummer of The Rolling Stones, uttered this informative declaration, reflecting his modest viewpoint on musicianship and his understanding of jazz as an art form. At its core, this quote encapsulates both the reverence and the universality present in music.
When Watts states, "You need much better technique than I need to play jazz", he is acknowledging the technical proficiency typically associated with jazz artists. Jazz, as a category, is identified by complex rhythms, complex improvisations, and a high level of technical capability. By admitting that he might not possess the skill required to master such components, Watts is showing humbleness and paying homage to jazz musicians who devote their lives to mastering the intricacies of their craft.
However, the 2nd part of his declaration--"however what you have to do is the same thing, isn't it?"-- recommends a much deeper connection between various musical categories. Here, Watts proposes that, despite the technical distinctions, the essence of making music stays continuous across genres. Whether playing rock, jazz, or any other design, musicians make every effort to reveal feeling, share stories, and develop a dialogue with their audience. This pursuit of credibility and interaction is a typical thread that joins all musicians, no matter the technical needs of their selected style.
Watts's declaration also implies a sense of uniformity within the music neighborhood. It suggests that while the requirements and needs of each genre might vary, the supreme goal stays the exact same: to communicate feeling and cultivate a shared experience in between entertainer and listener.
In essence, Watts's quote is a reflection on the shared journey of musicianship. It highlights the idea that while various categories might need particular abilities, the basic function of music-- to communicate and connect-- is universal, transcending the borders of technique and style.
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