“I hate rankings about who is better. I don’t deal with technique, I deal with emotions.”
I am no longer interested in hyper-technical and funambolic musicians who are not capable of transmitting emotions. Better four notes expressed with the soul than a thousand without them.
Think of Robert Johnson, B.B.
King, Chet Baker, Joao Gilberto.
Charlie Watts was for me the essence of the Stones sound, without doing any spectacular stunts. Many will not agree.
I’ve read a lot of posts about lists of musicians but for me music isn’t competition, it’s sharing.”
-Jimmy page~
In a world increasingly obsessed with lists and rankings, there emerges a refreshing perspective from one of the greats of rock music, Jimmy Page. His sentiments echo a truth often overshadowed by technical prowess and flashy performances. Page’s stance on music—one that prioritizes emotion over technicality—resonates deeply with anyone who believes that true artistry lies in the ability to connect, not compete.
For many, the allure of ranking musicians stems from an innate desire to categorize and compare. It’s commonplace to engage in spirited debates over who is the greatest guitarist, vocalist, or band of all time. But Page’s assertion that “I hate rankings about who is better” challenges us to reconsider our approach to music appreciation. He makes a compelling argument that music should not be a competition but a shared experience.
**The Soul of Simplicity**
At the core of Page’s philosophy is the idea that the emotional weight of music far surpasses any intricate technical feat. In his words, “Better four notes expressed with the soul than a thousand without them.” This sentiment pays homage to legendary musicians like Robert Johnson, B.B. King, Chet Baker, and Joao Gilberto—names that may not always top charts but whose musical contributions are profoundly felt.
Consider Robert Johnson, whose haunting blues melodies resonate with raw pain and authenticity. Or B.B. King, whose ability to convey heartache through a single note on his guitar is unmatched. Chet Baker’s wistful trumpet and Joao Gilberto’s bossa nova rhythms are similar in that they evoke deep emotional responses, often with minimalistic techniques. These artists didn’t rely on flamboyant displays; they reached into the soul of their listeners.
**Charlie Watts: The Unsung Hero**
Page’s admiration for Charlie Watts, the drummer of The Rolling Stones, further emphasizes this point. He noted, “Charlie Watts was for me the essence of the Stones sound, without doing any spectacular stunts.” Watts exemplified the idea that sometimes it’s the subtle, understated contributions that provide the foundation for something extraordinary. While many might view drumming through the lens of technical complexity, Watts delivered an authenticity that helped define the iconic sound of one of the greatest rock bands in history. His rhythm was not about flash; it was about feeling—a testament to Page’s belief in the emotional core of music over technical bravado.
**Music as a Shared Experience**
In a landscape dominated by viral hits and performative displays, Page reminds us that “music isn’t competition, it’s sharing.” This perspective fosters a sense of community among music lovers, urging us to appreciate what each artist brings to the table without the constraining pressure of ranking or comparison. The magic of music is in its ability to unify diverse experiences and emotions. Every note played and every word sung has the potential to touch lives, heal wounds, and inspire joy.
Ultimately, the essence of music lies not in the accolades earned or the technical prowess displayed but in the capacity to resonate with others on an emotional level. So, the next time we find ourselves caught up in the debate of who’s better, let’s remember Jimmy Page’s wise words. Let’s celebrate the artists who move us, whether they wield a guitar with the intricacy of a virtuoso or express themselves through a simple, soulful melody. For in the end, it’s these shared moments of connection that truly matter.
