Chords Quote by Miles Davis
“The music has gotten thick. Guys give me tunes and they're full of chords. I can't play them...I think a movement in jazz is beginning away from the conventional string of chords, and a return to emphasis on melodic rather than harmonic variation. There will be fewer chords but infinite possibilities as to what to do with them.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Jazz magazine, 1975
Jazz is moving toward fewer chords, focusing on melody, opening endless creative options.
In simple terms: Less harmony, more melody expands possibilities.
Embrace melodic freedom.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- composition classes
- jam sessions
- recording studios
- music education
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does reduced harmony affect listener experience?
- What new forms can arise?
Listeners may miss harmonic richness.