In this statement, Kamasi Washington reflects on a period during his musical career when he was deeply involved in various projects outside of his core band collaboration. Despite having a strong bond with his fellow musicians due to their shared history and growth together, the time they spent working individually made coming back together for collaborative sessions feel like a rare and precious opportunity.
On a deeper level, Washington's words highlight the value of personal connections and teamwork in an industry where individual success often requires time apart from core creative groups. His statement underscores how these periods of separation can enhance the appreciation and significance of reunions, creating a sense of camaraderie and purpose that might be missed if musicians were always together. This perspective also touches on the broader theme of balancing personal projects with collaborative efforts to maintain both professional growth and meaningful relationships within a community.
Kamasi Washington is an accomplished jazz musician known for his unique blend of contemporary and traditional sounds, often incorporating elements from various genres into his work. He has gained recognition not only as a talented saxophonist but also as a composer and arranger with a distinctive voice in the modern jazz scene. His statement offers insight into the challenges and rewards of maintaining long-term musical partnerships while pursuing individual aspirations.