Meaning: This quote by Sonny Rollins, a renowned American jazz tenor saxophonist, reflects his experience and influence in the modern jazz and progressive jazz movement. Sonny Rollins has been a prominent figure in the jazz world, known for his innovative improvisation, powerful tone, and rhythmic complexity. His statement about playing with the heavyweights in the modern jazz and progressive jazz movement signifies his deep involvement and collaboration with some of the most influential musicians in the genre.

Sonny Rollins' career spans several decades, during which he has collaborated with numerous iconic figures in jazz music. His statement indicates that he has had the privilege of performing alongside the most influential and talented musicians in the modern and progressive jazz scene. This experience has not only shaped his musical journey but has also contributed to the development and evolution of jazz as a genre.

The modern jazz movement, also known as bebop, emerged in the mid-1940s and was characterized by its complex harmonies, fast tempos, and improvisational virtuosity. Some of the heavyweights in this movement included legends such as Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonious Monk, and Max Roach, among others. These musicians revolutionized jazz with their innovative approaches to harmony, rhythm, and improvisation, and their influence continues to resonate in contemporary jazz music.

In addition to the modern jazz movement, Sonny Rollins also references the progressive jazz movement. Progressive jazz, often associated with the post-bop era, expanded upon the innovations of bebop and incorporated elements of modal jazz, free jazz, and avant-garde experimentation. Notable figures in the progressive jazz movement include John Coltrane, Ornette Coleman, Miles Davis, and Charles Mingus, all of whom pushed the boundaries of traditional jazz and expanded the possibilities of the genre.

By acknowledging that he has played with the "who's who" of these movements, Sonny Rollins highlights the significance of his collaborations with these influential musicians. His experiences performing alongside these heavyweights have likely contributed to his own growth as an artist and have left an indelible mark on the trajectory of jazz music.

It is worth noting that Sonny Rollins himself is considered a heavyweight in the jazz world, having made significant contributions to the genre through his innovative compositions and groundbreaking improvisational style. His influence on successive generations of jazz musicians is immeasurable, and his impact continues to be felt in the contemporary jazz landscape.

In conclusion, Sonny Rollins' quote reflects his deep connection to the evolution of jazz music and his invaluable contributions to both the modern jazz and progressive jazz movements. His collaborations with the heavyweights of these movements have undoubtedly played a crucial role in shaping his artistic vision and have left an enduring legacy in the realm of jazz music. Sonny Rollins' statement serves as a testament to the rich history and ongoing innovation within jazz, and his own status as a luminary in the genre.