Meaning: This quote by Charlie Rich, an American country music singer and musician, reflects a sentiment of aspiration and determination. It suggests a willingness to pursue a different path in order to achieve a desired goal. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it's important to delve into the context of Charlie Rich's career and the broader cultural and musical landscape of the time.

Charlie Rich, born in 1932 in Colt, Arkansas, was a versatile musician who achieved success in various genres including country, jazz, and rockabilly. His music career began in the 1950s, and he gained recognition for his smooth vocals and piano skills. Rich's early influences included jazz artists such as Nat King Cole and Ray Charles, as well as country music legends like Hank Williams and Jimmie Rodgers. This diverse range of influences contributed to the unique blend of styles that characterized Rich's music.

The quote "As a matter of fact, we put it down because we wanted to be jazz pickers" provides insight into Rich's motivations and aspirations as a musician. In the context of the time, the music industry was evolving rapidly, with the rise of rock and roll, the burgeoning popularity of country music, and the continued influence of jazz. As a young musician, Rich was likely influenced by these musical currents and faced the challenge of defining his own artistic identity.

The phrase "jazz pickers" is notable in the quote, as it reflects Rich's desire to embody the improvisational and expressive qualities associated with jazz music. In jazz, "picking" refers to the act of playing a stringed instrument, such as a guitar or banjo, with the fingers or a pick. By expressing a desire to be "jazz pickers," Rich may have been alluding to the idea of embracing a freer, more spontaneous approach to music-making.

Rich's career trajectory also sheds light on the significance of this quote. In the early stages of his career, he recorded primarily in the rockabilly and rock and roll genres, achieving moderate success but not yet finding his definitive musical voice. It was not until the late 1960s and early 1970s that he experienced a breakthrough in country music, earning a string of hits and establishing himself as a prominent figure in the genre.

The quote may therefore reflect a pivotal moment in Rich's artistic journey, a moment when he and his musical associates made a deliberate decision to shift their focus and pursue a different musical direction. This decision ultimately led Rich to find his niche in country music, where his soulful, emotionally resonant style and distinctive vocal delivery set him apart as a truly exceptional artist.

In conclusion, the quote "As a matter of fact, we put it down because we wanted to be jazz pickers" encapsulates the complex interplay of ambition, artistic exploration, and the quest for identity in the career of Charlie Rich. It serves as a reminder of the pivotal choices and influences that shape a musician's trajectory, as well as the enduring appeal of blending diverse musical styles to create something truly original and compelling.