Quincy Jones Interview

When it comes to Jazz and Blues players I was talking about back then.  I was not referring to the ones today. not taking away from anyone today, but that is not what I was talking about.  And in my opinion and many others, yes, they were the best.

Sorry about the misspelling of Beatles.

However, most rock musicians back in the day learned from the best Jazz and Blues players.  That is a known fact. and couldn't hold a candle to them back then.

I recently saw a documentary of rock musician side men (forgot the name) on Netflix I believe.  it was fantastic.  Those people could really play.  So yeah there are first rate musicians in every category.  has to be.  But, popular music is mostly bells and whistles and not skill.  not to say there aren't many that can really rock.

Also, to "develop" into a fine bass player is one thing.  But when you are sitting in a room with some of the very best and you are developing.  Well, again, that is what Quincy was talking about.  I don't disparage them their popularity and fame.  More power to them.

They had to learn their craft.  Sooner or later they had to play in front of people that know what they were hearing and seeing. So yeah, they did learn. 

And I do agree with you about the issue of race.  certain people can't or wont deal with it.  The believe what they want to believe instead of facts and see what they choose to see only.  it is sad and scary even now. 

But I'll stand by Quincy's assessments.  I've seen and heard similar.

Don't get me wrong.  I like and appreciate the Rolling Stones.  I can't believe they are still playing.

But to demand that James Brown who always (at that time) had sold out venues open for a newbie band most hadn't yet hear of was insulting. 

And yes, I can believe that at one time Jimmy Hendrix was "afraid" to play with those artist.  yeah, I can see that, at one time.  Doesn't mean he wasn't very good, but afraid, okay, i can see that.

This wasn't like when Prince was on stage with Clapton and many other established guitarist.  he blew them off the stage and showed the world that he was one of the best guitarist period.  his superbowl half time performance is still too me the best haft time performance. In a heavy rain, he didn't miss a step or beat and was outstanding.

I remember Ashford and Simpson (great song writers by-the-way).  I just didn't appreciate how good she really was until I hear her highlighted on Quincy's albums.  Wow.  what a voice.

enjoy

frogman;  I appreciate and welcome your input and response. I'm not saying that they were the worst musicians in the world.  I think If I picked up a guitar, that would probably be me.  violin on the other hand was a different story.  We are not talking about their music at all.  Leonard Bernstein was correct.  I'm talking about the playing talent.  especially at the time that Quincy is talking about.  They just weren't that good. 

I think we can agree to disagree on this one and notice that you and I aren't going back and forth insulting each other.  I don't understand why people do that here.

To me, when they got away from the pop music and screaming fans, their music became much better.  I think that is what also broke them up.  Musical differences, style and taste.

John wanted more esoteric style. I think they grew apart style wise. But that is another story.  I don't think it was a money issue or an issue of who should be the highlighter as with other bands.  Rufus and Chaka Khan for example.  Rufus was the music and the writing.  Both were diminished when they split.

I have no idea why Cream broke up.  Eric wanted to go solo maybe?

Anyway, some people take Quincy's interview as the ranting of a disgruntled old guy.  I don't see it that way at all. exaggeration?  maybe a little.  but I think he was right about much of what he said.

I imagine the scenario was that some outstanding musicians were in the room and heard them play with them and they looked at each other and said, "who are these guys?  they really can't play well".  Again, I was not in the room, but guess what?  he was, and he was around some real talent back in the day. Not saying the Beatles weren't.  I'm talking about Miles, Coletrane, Rollins, Sinatra, etc. 

So, I think there was a serious culture clash and a little anger over the discrepancy of funds. 

Makes me wonder, if Jazz and Blues went away and we were left with only Rock, head bangers, etc. would mainstreamers miss it?

Sorry for the long post.  A short story.  When my Daughter was growing up as a child and teenager, she was into the music of her age.  The funny thing was that when she went to College, she and her friends got into Jazz and albums also.  amazing. 

Anyway, I think the interview was very good and revealing.  Yes he is older and probably annoyed at some of the success of other styles versus the ridiculous circumstances they had to go through back in the day, but that does not mean he is wrong or lying.

Anyway, my take.  I respect your opinion.

enjoy