Meaning: Ronnie Montrose, an American rock guitarist, made this statement to express his perspective on the process of writing vocal-oriented songs. The quote reflects his belief that creating music solely for the purpose of conforming to a particular style or expectation can feel uninspired and mechanical, akin to going through the motions. Montrose suggests that if one is going to engage in repetitive actions, it might as well be in a different context, such as physical labor or service industry work. This quote provides insight into Montrose's artistic approach and his inclination towards instrumental music.

Ronnie Montrose was known for his work in bands such as Montrose and Gamma, as well as for his collaborations with various artists in the rock music scene. As a guitarist, he had a significant impact on the development of hard rock and heavy metal music. His perspective on songwriting, as reflected in the quote, sheds light on his creative process and his preference for instrumental music over vocal-oriented compositions.

When Montrose mentions "going through the motions," he is likely referring to the feeling of producing music simply to fulfill an expectation or to conform to a certain trend or genre. For him, this approach lacks genuine creativity and passion. Instead of engaging in this type of musical expression, he suggests that one might as well perform any repetitive task, such as hammering or serving fries, where the repetitive nature of the action is more explicit and perhaps more honest.

This quote also highlights the value that Montrose placed on authenticity and creative integrity in music. By expressing his disdain for writing vocal-oriented songs as mere "repetitive motions," he emphasizes the importance of artistic sincerity and originality. Montrose's musical legacy reflects his commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories, and this quote offers a glimpse into the mindset that drove his artistic endeavors.

Moreover, the quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the commercial and mainstream aspects of the music industry. Montrose's aversion to writing vocal-oriented songs suggests a resistance to the pressures of creating music that caters solely to commercial success or radio airplay. His preference for instrumental music may stem from a desire to focus on the musicality and emotional expression inherent in instrumental compositions without the constraints of traditional song structures or lyrical content.

In conclusion, Ronnie Montrose's quote encapsulates his perspective on the creative process and the authenticity of musical expression. By rejecting the notion of "going through the motions" in songwriting and advocating for instrumental music over vocal-oriented compositions, he underscores the importance of artistic integrity and originality. This quote serves as a testament to Montrose's commitment to pushing artistic boundaries and staying true to his creative vision, leaving a lasting impact on the world of rock music.