Meaning: The quote "I never really followed grunge" by musician Robert Quine reflects his personal perspective on the grunge music genre. To understand the significance of this quote, it is essential to explore the context in which it was made and the impact of grunge music on the music industry.

Robert Quine was an influential guitarist known for his work with artists such as Richard Hell and the Voidoids, Lou Reed, and Matthew Sweet. His statement about not following grunge suggests that he may not have been actively engaged with or interested in the grunge music scene that emerged predominantly in the Pacific Northwest during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Grunge music is often associated with bands such as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, and Alice in Chains, among others. The genre is characterized by its raw and distorted sound, often accompanied by introspective and angst-ridden lyrics. Grunge music gained widespread popularity and commercial success, particularly with the rise of Nirvana and their seminal album "Nevermind," which propelled the genre into the mainstream.

Quine's assertion that he never followed grunge may reflect a personal preference for other musical styles or an acknowledgment of the limited influence that grunge had on his own musical journey. As a guitarist with a background in punk and alternative rock, Quine's musical interests and influences may have been rooted in different traditions, leading him to distance himself from the grunge movement.

It is important to note that musicians often have diverse tastes and influences, and Quine's statement may simply reflect his individual perspective rather than a judgment of the genre as a whole. Additionally, the quote could also be interpreted as a reflection of Quine's own experiences within the music industry and his personal journey as a musician.

Grunge music had a significant impact on the music industry, marking a shift away from the glam metal and pop-oriented rock of the 1980s. The raw and authentic sound of grunge resonated with a generation disillusioned by the glossy and commercialized nature of mainstream music at the time. The genre's success also brought attention to the Pacific Northwest music scene and solidified Seattle as a hub for alternative music.

The quote by Robert Quine invites further reflection on the diversity of musical preferences and the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry. While some musicians may have been deeply connected to the grunge movement, others, like Quine, may have remained on the periphery, pursuing their own artistic paths.

In conclusion, Robert Quine's statement "I never really followed grunge" offers a glimpse into his personal perspective on the grunge music genre and the diversity of musical influences within the industry. It prompts a deeper exploration of the impact of grunge music and the individual experiences of musicians within the ever-changing landscape of popular music.