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.

In this quote, Dexter Gordon describes jazz as a living music that has evolved over time. He emphasizes how it is not just a genre of sound, but one that reflects the emotions, dreams, and hopes of the people who create and listen to it. For Gordon, jazz is not static or confined to the past, but rather, it is an ongoing, dynamic expression of the human experience, continually adapting to the feelings and circumstances of its time.

The quote also underscores the deeply emotional and personal connection that jazz has with its listeners and performers. It is not just about technical skill or musical complexity, but about conveying the inner world of individuals, particularly the feelings of the moment. Jazz has always been a platform for expressing joy, pain, struggle, and triumph, and Gordon celebrates its ability to capture the essence of life itself.

The origin of the quote can be traced back to Gordon’s long career in jazz, a genre he helped shape. As a saxophonist, Gordon was deeply involved in the evolution of jazz, contributing to its growth and diversification. His statement reflects his belief in the vibrancy and relevance of jazz, acknowledging its roots in the lives of everyday people and its continuing role in reflecting the changing world.