Meaning: This quote from Bootsy Collins, a renowned musician, reflects his experience working with George Clinton, the leader of the funk band Parliament-Funkadelic. In this quote, Bootsy Collins describes how George Clinton allowed him and his bandmates the freedom to express themselves creatively, embracing their unique and unconventional style. Collins also acknowledges the importance of learning from both Clinton's permissive approach and the need for structure and discipline in pursuing their musical ambitions.

Bootsy Collins' collaboration with George Clinton and the Parliament-Funkadelic collective began in the 1970s, a time when the funk genre was gaining popularity and pushing the boundaries of traditional music. George Clinton was known for his avant-garde approach to music and performance, often incorporating elaborate costumes, theatrical stage shows, and a diverse range of musical influences into the band's work. It is within this context that Bootsy Collins' quote provides insight into the dynamic and creative environment that characterized their collaboration.

In the quote, Collins expresses his appreciation for George Clinton's willingness to embrace their unconventional appearance and style. This reflects the spirit of experimentation and freedom that was central to the funk movement at the time. The emphasis on "how crazy we were looking and dressing" underscores the importance of visual and aesthetic expression in addition to musical innovation. This aligns with the larger cultural and artistic trends of the era, where musicians were exploring new forms of self-expression and pushing the boundaries of traditional norms.

Collins' statement that he "kinda liked being with George more so at the time" highlights the significant impact that Clinton had on him as a mentor and collaborator. Clinton's permissive and open-minded approach provided Collins and his bandmates with the space to explore their creativity and push the limits of their artistic expression. This nurturing environment allowed them to develop their unique musical identity and make a lasting impact on the funk genre.

However, in acknowledging the need for both lessons, Collins also recognizes the importance of structure and discipline in honing their craft. While George Clinton's permissive approach was liberating and inspiring, Collins acknowledges that he also needed guidance and boundaries to fully realize his potential as a musician. This dual perspective speaks to the complexity of artistic development, as it often requires a balance between creative freedom and the discipline necessary to refine one's skills and vision.

In summary, Bootsy Collins' quote provides a glimpse into the creative dynamics of his collaboration with George Clinton and the Parliament-Funkadelic collective. It illustrates the liberating influence of Clinton's permissive approach, as well as the recognition of the need for structure and discipline in artistic development. This quote not only sheds light on the specific working relationship between Collins and Clinton but also offers broader insights into the creative processes and influences that shape the evolution of musical genres.