Meaning: The quote "All the classic jazz players all sang and a lot of 'em sang blues" by Mose Allison, a renowned musician, highlights the significant connection between jazz music and vocal expression. It underscores the fact that many of the iconic jazz musicians were not only skilled instrumentalists but were also vocalists who often delved into the emotional depth of blues music.

Jazz music has a rich history that encompasses various musical elements, including improvisation, syncopation, and a strong sense of rhythm. One of the most distinctive features of jazz is its capacity for individual expression and interpretation. This is evident not only in instrumental performances but also in the vocal aspects of the genre.

When Mose Allison mentioned that "all the classic jazz players all sang," he was acknowledging the tradition of jazz musicians being multi-talented individuals who could both play instruments and sing. This tradition can be traced back to the early days of jazz, with figures like Louis Armstrong, Bessie Smith, and Billie Holiday, who were not only exceptional instrumentalists but also influential vocalists.

Furthermore, Mose Allison's reference to many jazz players singing blues emphasizes the close relationship between jazz and blues music. Blues, with its origins in African American musical traditions, has been a fundamental influence on jazz music, shaping its emotional depth and storytelling capabilities. Many jazz musicians have incorporated blues elements into their music, using vocal expression to convey the raw emotions and life experiences inherent in the blues tradition.

The act of singing in jazz music also serves as a form of storytelling and emotional communication. Through their vocal performances, jazz singers have the opportunity to convey a wide range of emotions, from joy and exuberance to sadness and longing. This aspect of vocal expression adds a deeply personal dimension to jazz music, allowing musicians to connect with their audience on a profound level.

In addition to the expressive nature of jazz singing, the act of vocal improvisation is another crucial element of the genre. Jazz vocalists often engage in scat singing, a form of vocal improvisation that involves using wordless syllables and nonsensical sounds to create intricate melodies and rhythms. This form of improvisation not only showcases the technical prowess of the vocalist but also adds a playful and spontaneous quality to the music.

It is important to acknowledge the contributions of jazz vocalists in shaping the genre's evolution and influencing the broader landscape of popular music. Figures like Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, and Nat King Cole not only left an indelible mark on jazz but also helped to popularize the genre through their crossover appeal and innovative vocal techniques.

In conclusion, Mose Allison's quote encapsulates the integral role of vocal expression in jazz music, highlighting the tradition of jazz musicians being proficient singers and the deep connection between jazz and blues. The act of singing in jazz serves as a means of emotional communication, storytelling, and improvisation, adding a personal and expressive dimension to the genre. Furthermore, jazz vocalists have played a significant role in shaping the evolution of jazz and influencing the broader musical landscape, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire new generations of musicians.