What I try to get beyond is playing music at people and, instead, to play music with people because audience members are constantly part of the experience. What they say in their body language, what they say in their eyes, what they sing with me... it's an 'us,' and there's a communication that's like... it's like church, man.

In this quote, Al Jarreau expresses his desire to move beyond the traditional concept of performing music for an audience, to instead playing music with people. He highlights the importance of the audience as active participants in the experience, noting that their body language, their eyes, and their vocal engagement all contribute to the dynamic of the performance. Jarreau views the interaction between him and the audience as a form of communication, where the energy and connection flow in both directions, creating a shared experience. This transforms the performance into something communal, likening it to a spiritual experience, similar to the unity felt in church.

The origin of this quote comes from Jarreau’s career as a jazz vocalist and performer, known for his unique ability to blend different genres of music, including jazz, R&B, and pop. Throughout his career, Jarreau sought to break down the barrier between performer and audience, viewing live music as an opportunity for shared expression rather than a one-way exchange. His perspective reflects his belief that music is most powerful when it brings people together, rather than just entertaining them.

Jarreau’s comparison of the experience to church suggests that the connection he seeks with his audience goes beyond mere performance. In a religious context, church often represents a place of community, spiritual connection, and shared experience. Similarly, Jarreau aims to create that same sense of unity and shared energy during his performances, where both he and the audience are engaged in a collective experience that transcends the music itself.

Ultimately, Jarreau’s quote highlights his belief in the transformative power of music and the importance of making his performances an interactive and inclusive experience. For him, the act of performing is about creating an emotional bond with the audience, where the music is not just something played to people, but something shared between them. This philosophy is central to his approach to music, where communication, connection, and mutual respect are at the core of his artistry.