"I can play, and I know it; I'm not looking for any pats on the back. I don't have to be endorsed by anybody. I make enough to live and eat, and I'm happy with my music-and that's all I need."
About Curtis Fuller
Curtis Fuller — Life and Legacy
Curtis Fuller is a celebrated jazz trombonist whose work has significantly influenced the hard bop genre. His distinctive sound and innovative techniques have made him a pivotal figure in jazz history, particularly noted for his collaborations with legendary musicians like Art Blakey and McCoy Tyner. Fuller's quotes often reflect his deep understanding of the emotional and cultural significance of jazz, emphasizing that music is a powerful medium for expressing personal and collective struggles. One of his notable ideas is that jazz serves as a dialogue between musicians, where each note played is a response to the emotions and stories shared. He once stated that the essence of jazz lies in its ability to adapt and evolve, mirroring the resilience required in life. This perspective reveals how Fuller views music not just as an art form, but as a vital expression of human experience. Today, Curtis Fuller's insights resonate with both musicians and audiences, reminding us that resilience and creativity are intertwined. His contributions continue to inspire new generations of jazz artists, reinforcing the idea that through collaboration and personal expression, music can transcend boundaries and connect us all.
Quote collection
Curtis Fuller quotes
3 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"I more or less think that the trombone was chosen for me. I first selected a violin, which I didn't do too well with, and, ironically, the only thing left was the trombone. My next choice was a saxophone, but they didn't have any; so I think that the Creator had a lot to do with what I did...Because things just happened, you know, and I had no control over it. And I ended up with my instrument that I play now."
"It was Miles Davis who took me to New York, and Coltrane was in the band, as well as Paul Chambers, Philly Jo Jones. 'Trane took me aside, and, of course, we did Blue Trane, which was my first album-and that started everything. He had confidence that I didn't have; he saw something that I didn't see."