Meaning: This quote by John Barrow, a politician, highlights the importance of promotion in the music industry. It emphasizes that simply releasing a record is not enough to succeed in the competitive market. Instead, artists and record labels must actively engage in promotional activities to stand a chance of competing effectively. The quote implies that promoting a record is an essential part of the process, and without it, the product may struggle to gain traction in the market.

In the music industry, releasing a record is just the first step in a complex and multifaceted process. Once the music is recorded and ready for release, the real work begins. This is where promotion becomes crucial. Promoting a record involves a wide range of activities aimed at creating awareness, generating interest, and ultimately driving sales. This can include everything from marketing campaigns and advertising to live performances, interviews, and social media engagement.

The quote suggests that despite the creative and artistic aspects of making music, the music industry is also a business, and artists and record labels must be willing to "play the game" in order to succeed. This means understanding the importance of marketing and promotion in reaching potential listeners and fans. Without effective promotion, even the most talented and innovative musicians may struggle to gain visibility and recognition in a crowded and competitive market.

Furthermore, the quote alludes to the idea that promoting a record is not just an option but a necessity. In today's digital age, the music market is saturated with a vast array of artists and content, making it increasingly challenging for new releases to capture the attention of audiences. As a result, promotion has become an integral part of the music industry ecosystem, and artists and record labels must allocate resources and effort to ensure their music reaches its intended audience.

Moreover, the quote reflects the reality that success in the music industry is not solely determined by the quality of the music itself. While artistic merit is undoubtedly important, the ability to effectively promote and market a record can significantly impact its commercial success. This underscores the need for artists and industry professionals to understand the promotional landscape and develop strategic plans to maximize the visibility and impact of their music releases.

In conclusion, John Barrow's quote encapsulates the essential role of promotion in the music industry. It serves as a reminder that releasing a record is just the beginning of a larger process that requires active engagement in promotional activities. By acknowledging the importance of playing the promotional "game," artists and record labels can better position themselves to compete in the marketplace and increase the likelihood of their music gaining traction and success.