Meaning: The quote by Jerry Only, a musician best known as the bassist for the punk rock band the Misfits, encapsulates a sentiment that has been echoed by many artists and music enthusiasts over the years. At its core, the quote emphasizes the pure and unadulterated essence of music, highlighting the belief that music should not be driven by commercial interests or political agendas. Instead, it should be a collaborative and joyous expression of creativity and camaraderie.

The first part of the quote, "Music shouldn't be based around money or politics," speaks to the idea that music should not be solely motivated by financial gain or influenced by external power dynamics. This sentiment reflects a desire for music to remain untainted by the pressures of the commercial music industry and the potential for artistic compromise that can come with it. In an ideal world, music would be created and appreciated purely for its intrinsic value and the emotional connection it fosters, rather than as a commodity to be bought and sold.

The second part of the quote, "Music should be a bunch of people that really do great songs together doing them together for the pursuit of having a good time," emphasizes the communal and collaborative nature of music-making. This sentiment underscores the importance of shared creative experiences and the joy that comes from creating and performing music with others. It speaks to the idea that music is not just about the end product, but also about the process and the relationships formed through the act of making music together.

The final part of the quote, "for the pursuit of having a good time," encapsulates the fundamental essence of music as a source of joy, pleasure, and emotional resonance. It highlights the idea that music, at its best, is a source of pure enjoyment and fulfillment, both for the creators and the listeners. This sentiment harkens back to the roots of music as a form of expression and entertainment, a means of bringing people together and uplifting their spirits.

Overall, Jerry Only's quote serves as a reminder of the intrinsic value of music and the ideals that many musicians uphold in their pursuit of artistic integrity and genuine expression. It speaks to the desire for music to remain a source of unadulterated creativity, free from the constraints of commercialism and politics, and to retain its ability to bring people together in a spirit of camaraderie and joy.

In conclusion, Jerry Only's quote encapsulates a vision of music that is rooted in authenticity, collaboration, and the pursuit of genuine enjoyment. It underscores the belief that music should transcend monetary and political influences, instead serving as a conduit for creative expression, shared experiences, and emotional fulfillment. It is a call to preserve the pure and unifying essence of music, allowing it to continue to resonate deeply with people and bring them together in celebration of its inherent beauty and power.