The Meridian School’s Post

Miles Davis used to famously turn his back to the audience when he played his trumpet, especially later in his career. Many felt the gesture was arrogant and off putting. But Miles had his reasons… For one, he was deeply committed to the music and his craft and thought of himself as an artist and not a “shuckin and jivin’” entertainer. Turning his back allowed him to immerse himself in the creative process, and maintain a connection with other artists performing alongside him; it was said he was focused on sending cues to his sidemen as they played. He was known to avoid spectacle, and to prioritize his music over all else. But there was also an element of silent protest in Miles’ stance. Turning away established a boundary between his artistry, and the world that denied respect, equity and opportunity to his community of Black jazz artists. He believed strongly that the music he was making was high art and deserved to be understood as such. So he delivered it in such a way that there was nothing to react to but the music itself. Either you engaged with it or you didn't. He wasn't going to try to draw you in. There are parallels between Miles’ story and the lives of many professionals of color that I know. We’re not here for window dressing or to fill quotas, but to be respected as thought leaders, professionals and masters of our craft. It might be a reason that so many of us have worked hard to earn credentials and experiences, building LinkedIn profiles that demonstrate unquestionable expertise. When people ask about role models and inspiration, I’m sure you, like me, pull from many aspects of life, including family, business, sports, and religion. Many of my heroes and inspirations come from the #jazzgiants who established a new art form in the twentieth century against all odds. I love talking about music giants like Bird, Monk, Diz, Billie, Duke, Count and Coltrane and learning from their personal stories of perseverance. What stories inspire you?