Meaning: This quote by Jason Newsted, a musician known for his work as the bassist for the band Metallica, reflects on his early musical influences and the impact of Gene Simmons, the bassist and co-lead vocalist of the iconic rock band Kiss. In this quote, Newsted recounts how he was inspired by Simmons to pick up the bass and emulate the rock star personas of the members of Kiss with his friends. This quote provides a glimpse into the way in which musical idols can shape and inspire the aspirations of young musicians, and how the influence of a particular artist can lead to the discovery of one's own musical path.

Jason Newsted's mention of acquiring a Gibson amp and a bass due to the influence of Gene Simmons highlights the powerful impact that role models in the music industry can have on aspiring musicians. Gene Simmons, known for his flamboyant stage presence and commanding bass lines, served as a source of inspiration for Newsted, driving him to pursue his own musical journey. The fact that Newsted and his friends would pretend to be Kiss, with Newsted favoring Gene Simmons, underscores the profound influence that iconic musicians can have on the dreams and creative endeavors of young fans.

This quote also sheds light on the role of imagination and play in the early stages of a musician's development. By pretending to be members of Kiss, Newsted and his friends engaged in a form of creative play that allowed them to inhabit the personas of their musical heroes. This type of imaginative play can be a formative experience for young musicians, as it allows them to explore their musical identities, experiment with different roles within a band, and develop a deep connection to the music that inspires them.

Furthermore, the quote serves as a testament to the enduring impact of influential musicians and bands. Kiss, with their larger-than-life personas and anthemic rock music, left an indelible mark on countless fans and aspiring musicians, including Jason Newsted. The band's ability to captivate and inspire young audiences, as evidenced by Newsted's recollection, speaks to the enduring power of music as a source of inspiration and creative fuel.

In conclusion, Jason Newsted's quote about being influenced by Gene Simmons and Kiss underscores the profound impact that musical idols can have on aspiring musicians. It speaks to the formative role of imaginative play, the enduring influence of iconic musicians, and the way in which a single figure in the music industry can shape the dreams and aspirations of a young fan. This quote serves as a reminder of the transformative power of music and the pivotal role that influential artists play in shaping the journeys of future generations of musicians.