Meaning: Teena Marie, also known as Lady T, was an American singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist known for her work in the R&B, soul, and funk genres. The quote in question reflects her experience as an artist and her involvement with a record label at a particular point in her career. Let's break down the quote to understand its significance and the context in which it was made.

"They told me that they are starting a classic label, and wanted me to be the first artist."

In this part of the quote, Teena Marie is recounting the initial interaction with the record label. The label informed her of their intention to launch a classic label, which suggests a focus on timeless and high-quality music. They expressed a desire for her to be the flagship artist for this new venture. This indicates the label's confidence in her talent and potential to represent the essence of their classic label.

"So I signed, and am producing myself, and writing my own music, but I'm their first artist on their classic label."

By stating that she signed with the label, Teena Marie acknowledges her decision to enter into a professional agreement with them. This decision likely involved negotiations regarding the terms of her contract, including creative control and artistic autonomy. Additionally, her role as a producer and songwriter underscores her multifaceted involvement in the creation of her music. This level of creative input aligns with her desire to maintain a high degree of artistic control over her work.

"And I have creative control."

This assertion is a pivotal aspect of the quote, emphasizing the significance of creative control to Teena Marie. It highlights the importance of autonomy and the ability to make artistic decisions without undue influence from external parties. For many artists, creative control is a fundamental aspect of their artistic integrity and the ability to fully express themselves through their music.

This quote encapsulates the essence of an artist taking charge of her career and artistic output. It reflects a significant moment in Teena Marie's journey, where she was entrusted with the role of spearheading a new label's artistic direction. Her ability to produce and write her own music, coupled with the assurance of creative control, speaks to her confidence in her abilities and the trust placed in her by the label.

In a broader context, this quote sheds light on the dynamics between artists and record labels, particularly in the realm of creative freedom and control. It underscores the value of artists being able to steer their own artistic vision and the impact this autonomy can have on their body of work. Teena Marie's experience serves as a testament to the importance of artists advocating for their creative rights and the potential rewards that come with such advocacy.

In conclusion, Teena Marie's quote encapsulates a pivotal moment in her career, highlighting her role as the inaugural artist on a new classic label and the creative control she wielded in that capacity. It underscores the significance of artistic autonomy and the impact it can have on an artist's creative output. This quote serves as a testament to Teena Marie's dedication to her craft and her unwavering commitment to maintaining artistic integrity in the music industry.