Meaning: Norman Granz, a renowned music impresario, made this statement in reference to his influential role in championing jazz music and promoting the careers of numerous jazz musicians. Granz was a pivotal figure in the development and popularization of jazz during the mid-20th century, and his impact on the genre cannot be overstated.

Granz's contribution to jazz can be understood through his work as a concert promoter, record producer, and manager. He is perhaps best known for founding the record label Verve Records, which became a home for many legendary jazz artists, including Ella Fitzgerald, Oscar Peterson, and Dizzy Gillespie. Additionally, Granz organized numerous jazz concerts and tours, providing a platform for musicians to showcase their talents to a wider audience.

One of Granz's most significant contributions to jazz was his commitment to racial equality within the music industry. At a time when segregation and discrimination were pervasive, Granz was a staunch advocate for civil rights and used his influence to challenge these injustices. He insisted on equal pay and treatment for all musicians, regardless of their race, and famously refused to book his artists at venues that practiced segregation.

Granz's dedication to promoting jazz as a sophisticated and virtuosic art form also played a crucial role in shaping the public perception of the genre. Through his "Jazz at the Philharmonic" concert series, Granz presented jazz in prestigious concert halls, elevating its status and challenging the notion that it was solely "popular" or "lowbrow" music. This helped to establish jazz as a legitimate and respected form of artistic expression.

In addition to his work as a promoter and producer, Granz was also a shrewd manager who negotiated lucrative deals for his artists, ensuring that they received fair compensation for their talents. His business acumen and dedication to the well-being of the musicians under his wing earned him the respect and gratitude of many in the jazz community.

The quote "Jazz was uplifted by what I did" reflects Granz's deep conviction that his efforts had a meaningful and lasting impact on the jazz genre. His tireless advocacy for racial equality, his support for emerging talent, and his unwavering commitment to presenting jazz as a sophisticated art form all contributed to the elevation of the genre.

Norman Granz's influence on jazz reverberates to this day, as his legacy continues to inspire musicians, industry professionals, and jazz enthusiasts alike. His pioneering work in promoting racial equality and his unwavering dedication to showcasing the artistic brilliance of jazz musicians have left an indelible mark on the genre, shaping its evolution and ensuring its enduring relevance in the world of music.

In conclusion, Norman Granz's quote encapsulates his profound impact on jazz and serves as a testament to his visionary leadership in elevating the genre to new heights. His tireless efforts to promote jazz as a sophisticated art form and his unwavering commitment to racial equality have solidified his place as a true champion of the genre. Granz's legacy continues to resonate in the world of jazz, inspiring a new generation of musicians and advocates to carry forward his vision for the genre.