" I have made that one of my policies never to play anything that I’ve already put on record. "
- Sam Rivers

In the world of jazz music, musicians often find themselves performing their recorded songs repeatedly at live shows. However, Sam Rivers, a renowned saxophonist and composer, took a unique stance on this common practice. He firmly believed that once he had committed his musical ideas to record, it was important for him not to replay those exact pieces in live performances.

This quote speaks to the creative spirit of improvisation and innovation that is central to jazz music. By refusing to replicate recorded material during live shows, Rivers emphasized the importance of spontaneity and the value of the moment-to-moment interaction between musicians and their audience. This approach not only keeps the performance fresh and engaging for listeners but also challenges artists to continuously evolve and explore new musical territories.

Sam Rivers was a pioneering jazz musician known for his contributions as both an instrumentalist and composer. His innovative playing style and commitment to pushing boundaries in music earned him significant acclaim within the jazz community. His philosophy of never repeating recorded material underscores his dedication to improvisation and the dynamic nature of live performances, making him a respected figure in the world of jazz.