I, of course, wanted to play real jazz. When we played pop tunes, and naturally we had to, I wanted those pops to kick! Not loud and fast, understand, but smoothly and with a definite punch.
More Quotes from Count Basie:
It's the way you play that makes it . . . Play like you play. Play like you think, and then you got it, if you're going to get it. And whatever you get, that's you, so that's your story.Count Basie
I decided that I would be one of the biggest new names; and I actually had some little fancy business cards printed up to announce it, 'Count Basie. Beware, the Count is Here.'
Count Basie
Well, if you find a note tonight that sounds good, play the same damn note every night!
Count Basie
Contrary to several conflicting stories, I got the name Count right in Kansas City in 1936 while at the Reno Club. I was known as Bill Basie at that time. One night, while we were broadcasting, the announcer called me to the microphone for those usual few words of introduction. He commented that Bill Basie was a rather ordinary name, and further that there were a couple of well-known bandleaders named Earl Hines and Duke Ellington. Then he said, Bill, I think I'll call you Count Basie from now on. Is that all right with you' I thought he was kidding, shrugged my shoulders and replied, OK.'
Count Basie
All I wanted was to be big, to be in show business and to travel... and that's what I've been doing all my life.
Count Basie
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