Meaning: The quote "I can't judge my own stuff. That's for others. But those are the three things that I admire." by Mose Allison, a renowned musician, offers insight into the humility and self-awareness of an artist. Mose Allison was an influential jazz and blues pianist, singer, and songwriter known for his distinctive style that seamlessly blended elements of jazz, blues, and country music. His approach to music and his views on creativity reflect a deep understanding of the creative process and the role of external perspectives in evaluating one's work.

In this quote, Mose Allison acknowledges the limitations of self-assessment when it comes to evaluating one's own artistic output. He recognizes that the true assessment of his work should come from others, whether it be critics, fellow musicians, or his audience. This statement reflects a level of humility and a willingness to accept constructive criticism, showing that Allison valued external feedback and the perspectives of others in shaping his understanding of his own artistry.

Furthermore, the quote alludes to "the three things that I admire," which suggests that Mose Allison had specific qualities or aspects of creativity that he held in high regard. While the exact nature of these "three things" is not explicitly mentioned in the quote, it offers a glimpse into Allison's personal values and artistic principles. This could encompass a wide range of attributes such as musical innovation, emotional expression, technical prowess, or even broader values such as authenticity, integrity, and originality in artistic expression.

Mose Allison's statement also raises broader questions about the nature of artistic judgment and evaluation. It prompts us to consider the role of external perspectives in shaping our understanding of creative work and the importance of seeking feedback from others. It also highlights the complexities of self-assessment, acknowledging that artists may have biases or blind spots when it comes to evaluating their own creations. This recognition of the subjectivity of artistic judgment and the need for external validation is a valuable insight for aspiring artists and creators.

From a practical standpoint, this quote serves as a reminder for artists to remain open to feedback and to engage in a dialogue with their audience and peers. By acknowledging that the evaluation of one's work is not solely an internal process, Mose Allison encourages artists to embrace the perspectives of others and to remain receptive to diverse opinions and interpretations of their art.

In conclusion, Mose Allison's quote "I can't judge my own stuff. That's for others. But those are the three things that I admire" offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of artistic evaluation, the importance of external feedback, and the humility required to recognize the limitations of self-assessment. It provides valuable insights into the mindset of a prolific musician and serves as a reminder for artists to stay open to external perspectives while remaining true to their own artistic values and principles.