Meaning: The quote "I still prefer the bebop of the '40s. The very stuff I started out with is still the best to me. I have come full circle." by Carla Bley, a renowned musician, reflects her deep connection to and appreciation for the bebop music of the 1940s. In this quote, Bley expresses her enduring fondness for the genre, indicating that despite her musical journey and growth as an artist, she has returned to her roots and finds the music she began with to be the most meaningful and compelling to her.

Bebop emerged in the 1940s as a significant development in the evolution of jazz music. Characterized by its complex harmonies, fast tempos, and improvisational style, bebop represented a departure from the earlier swing music and marked a new era in jazz. The genre attracted a new generation of musicians who sought to explore more intricate and challenging musical expressions, and it became synonymous with the cultural and artistic innovations of the time.

Carla Bley's reference to bebop in the 1940s as "the very stuff I started out with" suggests that this style of music holds a special place in her musical origins and influences. It implies that her formative years as a musician were shaped by the sounds and innovations of bebop, laying the foundation for her artistic development and subsequent exploration of various musical genres.

Furthermore, Bley's statement that she "still prefer[s] the bebop of the '40s" conveys her unwavering admiration for the music that initially inspired and captivated her. Despite the passage of time and the evolution of musical trends, she remains deeply connected to the bebop tradition, finding its essence to be unparalleled and enduring in its appeal.

The phrase "I have come full circle" suggests that Bley has returned to her musical roots and experiences a sense of completion or fulfillment in doing so. It indicates a personal and artistic journey that has led her back to the source of her inspiration, where she finds a renewed sense of resonance and authenticity. This sentiment reflects a profound reconnection with the bebop music of the 1940s, marking a significant realization or rediscovery of the intrinsic value and relevance of her musical origins.

Carla Bley's career as a musician has been marked by innovation, experimentation, and a diverse range of musical explorations. As a composer, bandleader, and pianist, she has contributed significantly to the evolution of contemporary jazz and avant-garde music. Her statement about bebop in the 1940s provides insight into the enduring impact of this influential period in jazz history and the profound influence it has had on her artistic sensibilities.

In conclusion, Carla Bley's quote encapsulates her deep-rooted affinity for the bebop music of the 1940s, emphasizing the enduring significance of this genre in shaping her musical identity. The quote reflects a personal and artistic journey that has led her back to the music that initially inspired her, and it underscores the timeless appeal and enduring relevance of bebop in the landscape of jazz and contemporary music.