“...Every note you play is important! No filler. Respect the rhythm section. If you can't say it in two or three choruses...keep it in the case.”
“We would have better rhythm section players during jam sessions if horn owners were a bit more courteous. No more than three per song and fewer choruses. This will give the congregation room to breathe and thrive with positive energy.”
- Roy Hargrove
"Knowing songs helps us to understand the fabric of the music both melodically and lyrically. If you know the words you can interpret the feeling or mood of the song. Knowing melodies extends your improvisational tools from academic to memorable."
- Roy Hargrove
Jackie McLean - Jacknife
Blue Mitchell - Blue's moods
Charlie Parker - Bird with strings
Charlie Rouse - Unsung hero
Clifford Jordan - Glass bead games
Midnight star - No parking on the dance floor
Parliament - Trombipulation
LTD - Devotion
Prince - For you
Run DMC - Raising hell
"Rhythm and melody! Everybody understands that. There is always that phrase that sticks in your head. Or that beat that makes you dance." - Roy Hargrove
"I was told by an elder: Composing is important. This is how you find your identity in music." - Roy Hargrove
Clifford Jordan - Mosaic
Kenny Dorham - Live at the Cafe Bohemia
Eric Dolphy - Out to lunch!
Art Blakey - Soul finger
Duke Pearson - Honeybuns
"If it’s not swinging then what’s the point?"
"Music is a kind of ministry. It has the power to uplift. In the right circumstances, we are vessels that give unconditional blessing to those listening. We must use this gift carefully, wisely." - Roy Hargrove