“I've changed music four or five times. What have you done of any importance other than be white?”

— Miles Davis

Miles, the Autobiography (1989) (co-written with Quincy Troupe, p. 371.)
At a White House reception in honor of Ray Charles 1987, this was his reply to a society lady seated next to him who had asked what he had done to be invited.
1980s

Adopted from Wikiquote. Last update June 3, 2021. History

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Miles Davis30

American jazz musician 1926–1991

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“I've changed music four or five times. What have you done of any importance other than be white?”

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Miles Davis30

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