Meaning: The quote "Bowie is a musician, but he works like a painter. Thom always thought that we should aspire to that" by Ed O'Brien, a musician, refers to the artistic approach of David Bowie and its influence on other musicians. This quote captures the idea that Bowie's creative process and approach to music-making parallel that of a visual artist, particularly a painter. It also highlights the admiration and aspiration of other musicians, such as Thom Yorke of Radiohead, to adopt a similar approach in their own work.

David Bowie, an iconic figure in the music industry, was known for his innovative and boundary-pushing approach to music and performance. Throughout his career, Bowie constantly reinvented himself, both musically and visually, drawing inspiration from various art forms and artistic movements. His ability to blend different artistic disciplines and his willingness to experiment with new sounds and styles set him apart as a truly unique and influential musician.

The comparison of Bowie's work to that of a painter suggests that his creative process involved a deep level of thought, experimentation, and attention to detail, much like a painter meticulously working on a canvas. This approach allowed Bowie to craft multi-dimensional and visually evocative musical compositions that transcended traditional boundaries and genres.

Thom Yorke, the lead vocalist and primary songwriter of Radiohead, is known for his innovative approach to music and his willingness to push the boundaries of conventional songwriting and sound. It is evident from O'Brien's quote that Yorke, and likely many other musicians, found inspiration in Bowie's artistic philosophy and approach. By aspiring to work "like a painter," musicians like Yorke seek to infuse their music with a similar level of creativity, depth, and visual storytelling, akin to the way a painter approaches their canvas.

The quote also speaks to the idea that musicians can draw inspiration from a wide range of artistic mediums, not just from within the realm of music itself. Bowie's ability to draw from visual art, fashion, and literature demonstrates the interconnectedness of different artistic disciplines and the potential for cross-pollination of ideas and creativity.

In a broader sense, O'Brien's quote emphasizes the importance of embracing a multidisciplinary approach to creativity and the value of seeking inspiration beyond one's immediate field. By drawing parallels between Bowie's work and that of a painter, the quote encourages musicians to approach their craft with a sense of artistic freedom and exploration, allowing for a more expansive and innovative creative process.

Ultimately, the quote serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of David Bowie's artistic legacy and his ability to inspire and influence musicians across different generations. It highlights the significance of adopting a holistic and open-minded approach to creativity, one that transcends traditional boundaries and embraces the diverse influences of artistic expression.

In conclusion, Ed O'Brien's quote encapsulates the profound impact of David Bowie's artistic approach on the music industry and the enduring influence of his multidisciplinary and visually evocative creative process. It also underscores the importance of embracing a multidimensional and exploratory approach to music-making, drawing inspiration from diverse artistic disciplines, and aspiring to work with the depth and creativity of a painter.