Meaning: Les Baxter was a prominent American musician, composer, and conductor known for his extensive work in the exotica genre. The quote "I aim my arrangements at what will fit and colorfully frame the song in the best way possible" encapsulates Baxter's approach to music composition and arrangement. In this quote, Baxter emphasizes the importance of creating arrangements that not only complement the song but also enhance its impact through colorful and fitting musical framing.

Baxter's emphasis on "what will fit" in his arrangements suggests a keen awareness of the musical elements and dynamics within a song. This approach reflects his attention to detail and his ability to tailor his arrangements to the specific needs of each composition. By considering what will fit harmoniously within a piece of music, Baxter sought to create arrangements that seamlessly integrated with the song, enhancing its overall impact.

Furthermore, Baxter's mention of "colorfully frame the song" highlights his intention to add depth, texture, and vibrancy to his arrangements. Just as a beautifully crafted frame can enhance the impact of a painting, Baxter aimed to create musical frameworks that would elevate the songs he worked on, adding layers of richness and distinctiveness to the overall sound.

Baxter's approach to arranging music aligns with his broader contributions to the exotica genre, where he often combined traditional orchestral elements with exotic and tropical sounds to create lush, evocative musical landscapes. His arrangements were characterized by their lush and immersive qualities, often evoking imagery of faraway places and exotic experiences.

In practice, Baxter's arrangements often featured a diverse array of instruments, including percussion, woodwinds, and strings, to create a multi-layered sonic tapestry. By skillfully blending these elements, he was able to create arrangements that not only fit the songs he worked on but also added a captivating and colorful dimension to the music.

Baxter's approach to arrangement reflects a deep understanding of the role of an arranger in enhancing the emotional and aesthetic impact of a song. His ability to craft arrangements that sensitively and creatively complemented the core essence of a piece of music speaks to his skill as a composer and conductor.

Throughout his career, Baxter worked on a wide range of projects, including film scores, studio recordings, and live performances. His arrangements were integral to defining the mood, atmosphere, and emotional resonance of the music he worked on, showcasing his commitment to delivering arrangements that not only fit but also added a vivid and captivating frame to the songs.

In conclusion, Les Baxter's quote sheds light on his approach to music arrangement, emphasizing the importance of creating arrangements that seamlessly fit and enhance the songs they accompany. His commitment to crafting colorful and fitting musical frames speaks to his dedication to creating arrangements that elevate and enrich the music, showcasing his skill as a musician and arranger. Throughout his career, Baxter's arrangements left an indelible mark on the world of music, serving as a testament to his enduring legacy as a visionary musician.