Meaning: The quote "What makes bebop legitimate is the fact that when it was done, it was illegitimate" by Matthew Shipp, a renowned musician, encapsulates the essence of bebop music and its impact on the jazz genre. Bebop emerged during the 1940s as a revolutionary style of jazz that defied conventional norms and challenged the established musical traditions of the time. This quote alludes to the notion that bebop's legitimacy and significance stem from its departure from the mainstream and its willingness to break free from the constraints of traditional jazz.

Bebop music is characterized by its complex harmonies, rapid tempos, and improvisational style, which marked a departure from the more structured and melodic approach of earlier jazz forms. Musicians such as Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonious Monk, and Bud Powell were instrumental in pioneering bebop and pushing the boundaries of jazz music.

Shipp's quote suggests that bebop's legitimacy lies in its willingness to challenge the status quo and embrace a sense of rebellion against the established norms of the time. By defying conventions and embracing a more unconventional and experimental approach to music, bebop paved the way for a new era of artistic expression and creativity within the jazz genre.

Bebop's "illegitimacy" at the time of its emergence refers to the resistance and skepticism it faced from traditionalists and mainstream audiences. The rapid tempos, intricate melodies, and intricate improvisation techniques were initially met with resistance and criticism. However, it was precisely this departure from the norm that allowed bebop to carve out its own distinct identity and establish itself as a legitimate and influential movement within the jazz landscape.

The quote also implies that bebop's legitimacy is rooted in its ability to challenge preconceived notions of what jazz music should be, and in doing so, it redefined the boundaries of the genre. Bebop's emphasis on virtuosity, individual expression, and musical innovation set the stage for the evolution of jazz as an art form, influencing subsequent generations of musicians and reshaping the trajectory of jazz history.

Furthermore, Shipp's quote can be interpreted as highlighting the transformative power of bebop, as it not only reshaped the musical landscape of its time but also laid the groundwork for future developments in jazz and other musical genres. Its influence can be seen in the fusion of different musical styles, the emergence of avant-garde jazz, and its impact on the broader cultural and artistic movements of the 20th century.

In conclusion, Matthew Shipp's quote encapsulates the revolutionary spirit of bebop and its enduring impact on the jazz genre. By challenging the norms and conventions of its time, bebop redefined the boundaries of jazz music and established itself as a legitimate and influential movement. Its willingness to embrace innovation, individual expression, and artistic freedom cemented its place in the annals of music history, inspiring generations of musicians and reshaping the trajectory of jazz as an art form.