Meaning: This quote by the renowned music critic Lester Bangs provides insight into the concept of underground music and the challenges faced by independent artists and labels in the music industry. To fully understand the quote, it's essential to delve into the context in which it was made and explore the significance of Iggy and The Stooges' early albums in the context of underground music.

Lester Bangs was a highly influential music journalist and critic known for his candid and often contrarian views on music. He was a prominent figure in the rock journalism scene of the 1970s and 1980s, and his writings have had a lasting impact on music criticism. In this quote, Bangs is discussing the commercial performance of Iggy and The Stooges' first couple of albums, highlighting their relatively modest sales figures.

The reference to the albums selling "twenty five thousand between the two of them" underscores the idea that these albums did not achieve mainstream commercial success. Bangs' use of this specific sales figure serves to emphasize the underground nature of the music produced by Iggy and The Stooges. The fact that Bangs chooses to cite these sales figures as a point of reference for discussing underground music suggests that he views them as emblematic of the independent and non-commercial aspects of the music industry.

Furthermore, Bangs' mention of "independent labels and things like that" indicates his recognition of the role played by independent record labels in facilitating the distribution and promotion of underground music. Independent labels have historically served as vital platforms for artists operating outside the mainstream, offering them the opportunity to release their music and connect with niche audiences. By bringing attention to independent labels, Bangs underscores the importance of these entities in fostering the growth and visibility of underground music.

Iggy and The Stooges, led by the charismatic frontman Iggy Pop, were known for their raw and aggressive style of rock music, which challenged conventional norms and pushed the boundaries of the genre. The band's early albums, including "The Stooges" and "Fun House," are now regarded as seminal works that have had a profound influence on subsequent generations of musicians. However, at the time of their release, these albums did not achieve significant commercial success, as Bangs points out. Despite this, their impact on the development of underground and alternative music cannot be overstated.

The quote reflects Bangs' appreciation for music that operates outside the confines of mainstream commercialism. Bangs was a vocal advocate for artists and bands that were unafraid to defy conventions and explore new sonic territories. His championing of underground music, as evidenced in this quote, aligns with his broader ethos as a critic who sought to elevate the voices of unconventional and boundary-pushing musicians.

In conclusion, Lester Bangs' quote provides valuable insight into the dynamics of underground music and the challenges faced by independent artists and labels. By referencing the modest sales figures of Iggy and The Stooges' early albums and highlighting the role of independent labels, Bangs sheds light on the resilience and creativity of artists operating in the underground music scene. His words serve as a reminder of the enduring importance of non-commercial and independent music in shaping the cultural landscape.