Meaning: The quote by Ken Hensley reflects his experience as a musician in his first professional band, THE GODS. In this quote, he acknowledges the valuable lessons he learned and the opportunity he had to play with talented musicians, which contributed to his growth and development as an artist. Ken Hensley, a renowned musician and songwriter, is best known for his work as a member of the band Uriah Heep. His career in music spans decades, and he has made significant contributions to the rock music genre.

THE GODS, formed in 1965, was a British rock band that gained prominence during the late 1960s and early 1970s. The band consisted of talented musicians who collectively contributed to the development of their sound and style. Ken Hensley's involvement with THE GODS provided him with a platform to hone his musical skills and gain valuable experience in a professional setting. This early phase of his career laid the foundation for his future success and established him as a respected figure in the music industry.

Playing with "so many great musicians" in THE GODS allowed Ken Hensley to immerse himself in a collaborative and dynamic musical environment. This exposure to diverse talents and creative influences likely broadened his musical horizons and provided him with a rich learning experience. Collaborating with other musicians can be a powerful catalyst for growth, as it encourages the exchange of ideas and the exploration of different musical approaches. Through this interaction, Hensley was able to absorb knowledge and techniques from his peers, contributing to his development as a versatile and skilled musician.

The quote also highlights the significance of learning through practical experience. While formal education and training are valuable, there is a unique kind of learning that occurs when musicians come together to create and perform music. This hands-on approach allows for the development of intuition, improvisation skills, and an understanding of the dynamics of playing with a band. THE GODS provided Ken Hensley with a real-world education in music, allowing him to apply and refine his skills in a live performance setting.

The impact of playing with talented musicians cannot be understated. Surrounding oneself with individuals who possess exceptional skill and creativity can inspire and elevate one's own abilities. The exchange of ideas and the mutual support among band members often lead to artistic breakthroughs and personal growth. In THE GODS, Ken Hensley had the opportunity to witness and participate in the collective synergy of a group of talented musicians, an experience that surely left a lasting impression on his musical journey.

In conclusion, Ken Hensley's quote encapsulates the formative impact of his time with THE GODS, his first professional band, on his musical development. The experience of playing with accomplished musicians in a collaborative environment provided him with invaluable lessons and insights that would shape his future career. It serves as a testament to the transformative power of engaging with talented peers and the profound impact of real-world, hands-on experience in the pursuit of musical excellence.