Meaning: Thurston Moore, a musician and co-founder of the influential alternative rock band Sonic Youth, made this statement in an interview, reflecting on the state of the music industry and the challenges faced by musicians in making a living from their art. The quote highlights the disparity in financial success within the music industry, with Moore acknowledging that while some artists, such as the legendary rock band Black Sabbath, have achieved significant wealth and success, the majority of musicians struggle to attain similar levels of financial stability.

In the first part of the quote, Moore states, "No one really gets rich doing this," suggesting that the pursuit of a career in music is not typically a path to substantial wealth. This sentiment resonates with the experiences of many musicians who often face financial uncertainty and struggle to make a sustainable income from their creative work. The music industry is notoriously challenging, with a vast number of talented artists vying for limited opportunities for recognition and financial reward.

Moore's reference to Black Sabbath as one of the few exceptions to the rule serves to emphasize the rarity of achieving significant wealth through music. Black Sabbath, as a pioneering and highly successful rock band, has enjoyed enduring commercial success and has amassed considerable wealth over the years. By contrasting the financial success of Black Sabbath with the broader reality of struggling musicians, Moore underscores the notion that achieving substantial wealth in the music industry is the exception rather than the norm.

The statement "We don't sell any records anymore" speaks to the profound shift in the music industry landscape due to technological advancements and changes in consumer behavior. With the rise of digital streaming platforms and the decline of physical album sales, many musicians have experienced a decline in revenue from traditional record sales. This shift has posed significant challenges for artists who relied on album sales as a primary source of income. In this context, Moore's comment reflects the harsh reality faced by many musicians in the modern music industry, where the traditional revenue streams have been disrupted, making it increasingly difficult to earn a living solely from music sales.

Overall, Thurston Moore's quote encapsulates the financial struggles and shifting dynamics of the music industry. It serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent difficulties in achieving financial success as a musician, while also shedding light on the broader impact of industry changes on artists' livelihoods. Despite these challenges, Moore's candid reflection on the state of the music industry also underscores the resilience and passion that drive musicians to continue creating and sharing their art, even in the face of financial uncertainty.