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Time Quote by Miles Davis

“I remember one time - it might have been a couple times - at the Fillmore East in 1970, I was opening for this sorry-ass cat named Steve Miller. Steve Miller didn't have his shit going for him, so I'm pissed because I got to open for this non-playing motherfucker just because he had one or two…” quote by Miles Davis
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““I remember one time - it might have been a couple times - at the Fillmore East in 1970, I was opening for this sorry-ass cat named Steve Miller. Steve Miller didn't have his shit going for him, so I'm pissed because I got to open for this non-playing motherfucker just because he had one or two sorry-ass records out. So I would come late and he would have to go on first and then we got there we smoked the motherfucking place, everybody dug it.””

Miles Davis

About This Quote

Source Interview: Rolling Stone, 1970

The musician expresses resentment toward an underperforming headliner, highlighting frustration with professional hierarchies and coping through rebellion.

In simple terms: He was angry about opening for a bad act.

Key Takeaway

Channel frustration into constructive artistic growth.

Themes

music industry professional hierarchy frustration rebellion

Mood

irritated defiant

Type

musical personal anecdote

When to use this quote

  • concerts
  • touring
  • studio sessions
  • creative collaboration

Key Concepts

performance dynamics artist ego

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can artists handle disappointment without destructive behavior?
  • What healthier outlets exist for professional frustration?
A Different Perspective

Rebellion can alienate peers and damage reputation.

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