Meaning: This quote by Buck Owens, a prominent figure in the country music industry, sheds light on his musical influences and the impact they had on his own music. In this quote, he attributes his musical style to the influence of two iconic musicians: Bob Wills and Little Richard. By delving into the background of these influential artists and examining how their work might have shaped Buck Owens' music, we can gain a deeper understanding of the quote's significance.

Bob Wills, often referred to as the "King of Western Swing," was a pioneering figure in American music. His band, Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys, played a significant role in popularizing Western swing, a genre that combined elements of jazz, country, and blues. Wills' approach to music was characterized by a sense of freedom and spontaneity, as he and his band members often improvised and experimented with different musical styles. This free-spirited approach to music is evident in Buck Owens' quote, where he acknowledges Wills as someone who "did what the hell he thought." This suggests that Wills' willingness to break musical boundaries and follow his creative instincts left a lasting impression on Owens and likely influenced his own approach to crafting music.

Similarly, Little Richard, known as the "Architect of Rock and Roll," was a trailblazing musician whose energetic performances and flamboyant persona helped shape the early rock and roll era. Little Richard's uninhibited and dynamic stage presence, coupled with his innovative and exuberant style of piano playing, made a profound impact on the music industry. In the quote, Owens acknowledges Little Richard as another significant influence, noting that he "did what he thought." This implies that Little Richard's fearlessness in expressing himself through his music and breaking societal norms resonated with Owens and influenced his own artistic expression.

Buck Owens' recognition of Bob Wills and Little Richard as his major influences highlights the diverse musical elements that shaped his unique sound. By embracing the uninhibited creativity and boundary-pushing spirit of these two influential musicians, Owens was able to carve out his own distinctive place in the country music landscape. His music reflects a blend of traditional country, honky-tonk, and rock and roll influences, which can be attributed, in part, to the impact of Wills and Little Richard on his musical development.

In conclusion, Buck Owens' quote serves as a testament to the enduring influence of Bob Wills and Little Richard on his musical journey. Their fearless and innovative approaches to music left an indelible mark on Owens, shaping his own musical style and contributing to his enduring legacy in the country music genre. This quote not only highlights the interconnectedness of musical influences but also underscores the power of artistic expression and individuality in shaping the trajectory of a musician's career.