Meaning: The quote "Well, that's the secret of commerciality, a simple style and you stick with it" by Les Baxter, a renowned musician and composer, encapsulates a fundamental principle in the world of commercial music and art. Les Baxter, known for his innovative approach to music production and his ability to blend different musical styles, understood the importance of simplicity and consistency in creating commercial success. In this quote, he highlights the significance of maintaining a straightforward and consistent style as a key factor in achieving commercial appeal.

Commerciality in the context of music and art refers to the ability of a piece of work to attract a wide audience and generate financial success. It encompasses the elements that make a piece of music or art popular and commercially viable, such as its accessibility, appeal, and marketability. Baxter's insight into the "secret of commerciality" speaks to the underlying principles that contribute to the widespread success and recognition of creative works in the commercial sphere.

The emphasis on "a simple style" in Baxter's quote underscores the idea that music or art that is easily accessible and relatable to a broad audience tends to have greater commercial potential. A simple style does not necessarily imply a lack of depth or complexity; rather, it suggests a clarity and directness in the expression of artistic ideas. This simplicity can make the work more approachable and appealing to a wider range of listeners or viewers, thus increasing its commercial viability.

Furthermore, the notion of "sticking with it" in Baxter's quote emphasizes the importance of consistency and continuity in maintaining a successful commercial style. Artists and musicians who establish a recognizable and consistent aesthetic or sound often find greater commercial success, as their audience comes to associate them with a particular style or genre. By staying true to their artistic vision and maintaining a consistent approach, creators can build a loyal fan base and capitalize on the commercial potential of their work.

Les Baxter's own career exemplifies the principles embedded in this quote. As a pioneer of exotica music and a prolific composer and arranger, Baxter developed a distinctive style that combined elements of jazz, exotica, and orchestral music. His innovative approach to music production and his ability to create lush, evocative soundscapes set him apart in the commercial music landscape of his time. By adhering to his unique style and consistently producing music that resonated with a wide audience, Baxter achieved significant commercial success and left a lasting impact on the music industry.

In conclusion, Les Baxter's quote "Well, that's the secret of commerciality, a simple style and you stick with it" offers valuable insights into the principles of achieving commercial success in the realm of music and art. The emphasis on simplicity and consistency underscores the importance of creating work that is accessible, relatable, and consistent in its artistic vision. By understanding and applying these principles, artists and musicians can enhance the commercial potential of their creative output and connect with a broader audience.