When Stanley Clarke was up there, dawning a traditional cap and gown, to receive his honorary PhD, I was very proud of him, and his character.
But as soon after Stanley got up there, and blasted Miles Davis on calling, and saying Miles was a Car freak and said Miles must been on drugs for Miles alleged theories on musical space, which Stanley contrived as a punch line... (as looking for others to laugh) and the whole 9, I didn't laugh, nor did I find it funny.
Franky, I was very petrified, and filled with discontentment, and didn't want to believe Stanley would say something like he did. It was like a public smack-down on Miles works.
Here's the clip...
I don't believe Stanley could ever face the hard road set forth for Miles... and even as hard as it was, Miles still achieved much beauty and love in everything he ever did, or wanted to do. Miles did more than just music, and he did more for music than Stanley Clarke could understand, for Miles Davis opened the door for Stanley Clarke, and the multitudes of bassist yet born, and he did this before Stanley Clarke knew his own name.
Both Chic Corea and Lenny White came from Miles bands before there ever was a Return to Forever band. Chic and Lenny were STUDENTS of Miles.
It was only through Miles musical guest list, Stanley's future would become of interest.
Also, for someone who never played with Miles, professionally, I found Stanley's comments without merit for lack of proof, and completely utterly disrespectful. Also, there's no mention of Stanley Clarke in any of Miles Davis Autobiographies to account for such a meeting, or encounter. In fact, I can't even find the name Stanley Clarke listed within the index of Miles books. So, where's the proof?
Also, just because someone drives a Ferrari, they are car freaks?
When Stanley sounded off, Miles was already laid to rest, and in peace from this world. Why would Stanley wait so long to say these horrible and despicable things? Why would Stanley not have the courage to say these things directly to Miles face when Miles was here: alive and well?
That is so wrong, and without Stanley apologizing, I will never support Stanley's music again, (nor could my conscious allow me to do so) unless he was medically insane...
(Honestly, I must admit, I had not purchased Stanley Clarke's music since the early 80's when he played with Louis Johnson on the Rock, Pebbles and Sand album). Frankly, I thought that album very very good.
Stanley's action was like that of a coward, or a trader, to some extent, hinged on a sellout move.
I can't believe Stanley's statements, no more than anyone thinking I trust the heralds of his new line of basses (which are mere copies of Alembics).
Stanley should get on his hands and knees and thank GOD for Miles Davis.
Just as I believe Miles Davis music, and ideas were more profound than anything Stanley created musically, politically or philosophically (so far), I also believe Alembics basses are more profound than anything Stanley ever/never created and played (so far).
I would love to eat my words, for I know the taste very well... I never underestimate the power of GOD, and the forces only love could bring someone to speak, and to come to know of thy self.
If Stanley puts himself up there, as a leader, he should learn to speak with more grace of his elders and great leaders before him, and teach those younger, to prepare for the future, or simply say nothing at all. I hope he speaks to this issue, to alleviate the confusion... maybe someday he will because, I know GOD can change anybody. I hope he amend, and continue to be a force in the music.
Lastly,
Miles Davis never needed a signature horn, or dedications of any validation of valor.
Miles already know, who he be... without all the praises.
Peace and Love,
Hal-
(Message edited by toma_hawk01 on July 24, 2010)
