Meaning: The quote "Even the most jingoistic person would have to admit that even American cultural music comes from Europe. That's what classical music is, real European music." by Sonny Rollins, an American jazz tenor saxophonist, reflects a complex and often debated aspect of music history and cultural influence. In this quote, Rollins is highlighting the undeniable influence of European classical music on American cultural music, challenging any narrow-minded or nationalist perspectives that seek to deny or downplay this connection.

American cultural music, including jazz, blues, rock and roll, and various other genres, has indeed been significantly shaped by European musical traditions. The roots of much of American music can be traced back to the folk music, classical compositions, and musical innovations of European countries, particularly those of the United Kingdom, Ireland, Scotland, and various regions of continental Europe. The migration of people and their musical traditions from Europe to America has played a crucial role in shaping the musical landscape of the United States, with each wave of immigrants contributing to the rich tapestry of American music.

Classical music, often referred to as "real European music" in Rollins' quote, holds a particularly influential position in the development of American music. The structured compositions, harmonic conventions, and instrumental techniques of European classical music have been not only integrated into American musical styles but also transformed and reinterpreted to create new and distinct forms of expression. From the incorporation of classical instrumentation and motifs in jazz and blues to the fusion of classical elements with rock and roll, the impact of European classical music on American cultural music is undeniable.

It is important to note that while acknowledging the European influence on American music, it is equally essential to recognize the contributions of African, Indigenous, and other non-European musical traditions to the development of American cultural music. The fusion and cross-pollination of diverse musical heritages have been central to the evolution of American music, giving rise to a uniquely diverse and multifaceted musical landscape that defies simple categorization or attribution to any single source.

Furthermore, Rollins' quote raises broader questions about the interconnectedness of global musical traditions and the ways in which cultural exchange and adaptation have shaped the evolution of music across different regions and eras. The quote challenges the notion of musical purity or exclusivity, highlighting the fluidity and interplay of influences that characterize the development of music.

In conclusion, Sonny Rollins' quote serves as a reminder of the intricate interplay between European classical music and American cultural music, emphasizing the deep-rooted connections and mutual influences that have shaped the musical heritage of the United States. It prompts us to appreciate the diverse origins and cross-cultural pollination that have given rise to the rich tapestry of American music, transcending boundaries and affirming the universal language of music.