I don't hold it against Dizzy [Gillespie], you know, but…
![“I don't hold it against Dizzy [Gillespie], you know, but if a guy wants to play a certain way, you work towards that. If he stops - he's full of crap, you know. I mean, I wouldn't do it, for no money, or for no place in the white man's world. Not just to make money, because then you don't have…” quote by Miles Davis](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/aed/miles-davis-1842_apes_i-don-t-hold-it-against-dizzy-gillespie_1460081.jpg)
“I don't hold it against Dizzy [Gillespie], you know, but if a guy wants to play a certain way, you work towards that. If he stops - he's full of crap, you know. I mean, I wouldn't do it, for no money, or for no place in the white man's world. Not just to make money, because then you don't have anything. You don't have as much money as whoever you're trying to ape; that's making money by being commercial. Then you don't have anything to give the world; so you're not important. You might as well be dead.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
True artistic expression requires authenticity, not chasing profit or imitation; compromising leads to emptiness.
In simple terms: Stay true, avoid copying for money.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize authenticity over commercial gain.
Themes
authenticity
artistic integrity
commercialism
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- music industry
- visual arts
- writing
- entrepreneurship
Key Concepts
creative originality
cultural identity
self‑worth
Questions to Reflect On
- What balance can artists strike between integrity and livelihood?
- How does imitation affect creative growth?
A Different Perspective
The view may undervalue practical financial needs of artists.