Meaning: The quote "After The Ventures I dug Johnny Smith quite a bit" by Terry Kath, a musician, refers to his appreciation for the guitar playing of Johnny Smith. This quote provides insight into Kath's musical influences and preferences, shedding light on the impact that other musicians had on his own style and approach to playing the guitar.

Terry Kath was best known as the lead guitarist and co-lead vocalist of the rock band Chicago, which rose to fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Kath's guitar playing was characterized by its soulful, expressive style, and his powerful vocals added a distinctive element to the band's sound. As a musician, Kath drew inspiration from a variety of sources, and his quote about Johnny Smith reflects his openness to different musical styles and his admiration for the work of fellow guitarists.

The Ventures were a highly influential instrumental rock band that emerged in the early 1960s, known for their distinctive surf rock sound and their innovative use of guitar effects. Their music had a significant impact on the development of rock and roll and inspired countless aspiring musicians, including Kath. By stating "After The Ventures," Kath acknowledges the influence that The Ventures had on his musical journey, indicating that his appreciation for Johnny Smith came after being inspired by The Ventures' music.

Johnny Smith, the guitarist mentioned in the quote, was a renowned jazz guitarist known for his lyrical and melodic playing style. His technical prowess and innovative approach to the guitar earned him a place among the most respected and influential jazz guitarists of his time. Smith's work encompassed a wide range of musical styles, and his ability to blend elements of jazz, pop, and classical music made him a versatile and highly regarded musician.

Kath's use of the phrase "dug quite a bit" conveys a sense of deep appreciation and admiration for Johnny Smith's music. It suggests that Kath not only enjoyed Smith's playing but also found inspiration and influence in his work. This level of admiration indicates that Smith's music had a meaningful impact on Kath's own approach to the guitar and his development as a musician.

In the context of musical influence, it is common for artists to acknowledge and pay homage to the musicians who have inspired and shaped their own musical journey. By expressing his fondness for Johnny Smith's music, Kath provides a glimpse into the diverse influences that contributed to his development as a guitarist and musician. This quote serves as a testament to the interconnectedness of musical expression and the ongoing dialogue between artists across different genres and styles.

In conclusion, Terry Kath's quote "After The Ventures I dug Johnny Smith quite a bit" offers a glimpse into the musical influences that shaped his development as a guitarist and musician. By referencing The Ventures and expressing his admiration for Johnny Smith, Kath highlights the impact that these musicians had on his own musical journey. This quote serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of musical influences and the ways in which artists draw inspiration from one another to create and innovate within their respective genres.