Welcome to our collection of insightful and memorable quotes by the legendary jazz saxophonist, Dexter Gordon. With a career spanning decades, Dexter Gordon left an indelible mark on the world of music with his innovative style and unmistakable sound. Born in Los Angeles in 1923, Gordon rose to prominence during the bebop era, earning acclaim for his technical prowess, rich tone, and improvisational genius.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dexter Gordon captivated audiences worldwide with his soulful melodies and dynamic performances. His contributions to the jazz genre are celebrated not only for their musical brilliance but also for their profound influence on generations of musicians. As a leading figure in the bebop and hard bop movements, Gordon’s work continues to inspire and resonate with jazz enthusiasts and aficionados alike. Below, we present a curated selection of Dexter Gordon’s most memorable quotes, offering insight into his musical philosophy, creativity, and passion for the art form.
What I’m doing, I prefer to call that jazz, because it is a beautiful word – I love it. Dexter Gordon
To have a little recognition, that is very nice, you dig. It is good for the ego, for the psyche. Dexter Gordon
If you can’t play the blues… you might as well hang it up. Dexter Gordon
When you know the lyrics to a tune, you have some kind of insight as to it’s composition. If you don’t understand what it’s about, you’re depriving yourself of being really able to communicate this poem. Dexter Gordon
If I were to call it black music, that would be untrue. I don’t know what that is, unless it would be some African drums or something. Dexter Gordon
Darlin… be-bop is the music of the future. Dexter Gordon
It’s certainly not just a spot opinion; it’s something that obviously has been building up for years. It is also very good for publicity, and it is the kind of recognition that maybe will help financially, also. Dexter Gordon
Music is a reservoir… of sounds. Dexter Gordon
The music scene is more competitive in the States. Dexter Gordon
In nuclear war all men are cremated equal. Dexter Gordon
Jazz to me is a living music. It’s a music that since its beginning has expressed the feelings, the dreams, hopes, of the people. Dexter Gordon
A lot of times I go back to record and to make a tour, but I’m very happy to do it, because it gives me an opportunity to dig and hear what’s going on. Dexter Gordon
In jazz, there is a lot of European influence harmonically. Dexter Gordon