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Art Quote by Richie Havens

“I remember the first time I was booked into a jazz club. I was scared to death. I'm not a jazz artist. So I got to the club and spotted this big poster saying, 'Richie Havens, folk jazz artist.' Then I'd go to a rock club and I'm billed as a 'folk rock performer' and in the blues clubs I'd be a…” quote by Richie Havens
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“I remember the first time I was booked into a jazz club. I was scared to death. I'm not a jazz artist. So I got to the club and spotted this big poster saying, 'Richie Havens, folk jazz artist.' Then I'd go to a rock club and I'm billed as a 'folk rock performer' and in the blues clubs I'd be a 'folk blues entertainer.'”

Richie Havens

About This Quote

The quote reflects on the anxiety of being labeled in various music genres, revealing the fluidity of artistic identity and the pressure of expectations.

In simple terms: Genre labels cause fear and confusion.

Key Takeaway

Embrace your unique artistic identity.

Themes

identity creativity performance

Mood

anxious reflective

Type

personal observational

When to use this quote

  • live performances
  • career planning
  • branding
  • self‑acceptance

Key Concepts

sociology self‑concept artistic expression

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do labels affect your self‑view?
  • Can you define yourself beyond categories?
A Different Perspective

It may not apply to non‑performers.

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