Meaning: The quote "My mom would have liked it that I patterned myself more after Jimmy Reed" by Jimmy Smith reflects the influence of the renowned blues musician Jimmy Reed on Smith's musical style and personal development. James Oscar Smith, commonly known as Jimmy Smith, was an influential jazz musician and virtuoso of the Hammond B-3 electric organ. His innovative approach to jazz and blues music earned him a prominent place in the history of American music.

In the quote, Smith references his mother's preference for him to emulate the style of Jimmy Reed, a highly esteemed blues artist. This statement provides insight into the impact of familial influences on Smith's musical journey and showcases the significance of Jimmy Reed's artistry in shaping his musical approach.

Jimmy Reed, born Mathis James Reed, was a prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene of the 1950s and 1960s. Known for his distinctive voice and harmonica playing, Reed's music exuded a raw, emotive quality that resonated with audiences and fellow musicians alike. His songs, such as "Big Boss Man," "Bright Lights, Big City," and "Baby What You Want Me to Do," became iconic blues standards and solidified his status as a legendary figure in the genre.

Smith's acknowledgment of his mother's preference for him to align with Jimmy Reed's style suggests a deep respect for the blues tradition and the impact of Reed's music on his own artistic development. By expressing this sentiment, Smith pays homage to the influence of a fellow musician while also recognizing the importance of familial support and guidance in his life and career.

Furthermore, the quote sheds light on the interconnectedness of musical influences and the ways in which artists draw inspiration from their predecessors. For Smith, Jimmy Reed's music likely served as a source of musical and emotional connection, influencing the way he approached his own craft and the expression of his artistic identity.

In the broader context of music history, the quote exemplifies the dynamic nature of artistic influence and the ways in which musicians both pay homage to their predecessors and carve out their own unique paths within the musical landscape. By acknowledging the impact of Jimmy Reed on his own musical journey, Smith highlights the enduring legacy of blues music and its ability to shape and inspire generations of artists.

Overall, the quote "My mom would have liked it that I patterned myself more after Jimmy Reed" by Jimmy Smith encapsulates the profound influence of familial support and the enduring impact of musical predecessors on an artist's creative evolution. It serves as a testament to the interconnectedness of musical traditions and the deep appreciation that musicians like Jimmy Smith hold for the legacies of those who came before them.