" You’re supposed to create new standards. The more you play songs by your peers, they become standards, you know? Miles Davis played ‘Gingerbread Boy’ ‘cos he and Jimmy Heath were cool, you know? That’s how the culture goes. "
- Robert Glasper

In essence, the quote emphasizes the role of artists in shaping musical standards and traditions within their community. It suggests that musicians contribute to the evolution of music by performing works created by their contemporaries, thus elevating these pieces to a level where they are recognized as significant and influential.

Digging deeper into the quote's implications, it highlights how cultural shifts happen through mutual respect and collaboration among peers in an artistic field. When artists such as Miles Davis play compositions by fellow musicians like Jimmy Heath, they not only support their colleagues but also establish these pieces as benchmarks within the genre. This interconnected web of creativity fosters a vibrant and dynamic musical culture where each artist's work is validated through collective appreciation and performance.

Robert Glasper, an American pianist, composer, and producer, made this insightful statement about the nature of artistic influence and collaboration in music. Known for his innovative approach to jazz, hip-hop, and R&B, Glasper has been influential in blending different genres to create a fresh sound that resonates with contemporary audiences while respecting musical traditions.