Meaning: This quote by Dave Van Ronk, a prominent figure in the American folk music revival of the 1960s, reflects his disillusionment with the music industry and his desire to move on from it by the mid-1970s. Dave Van Ronk, also known as "The Mayor of MacDougal Street," was a highly influential figure in the folk music scene in New York City's Greenwich Village during the 1960s. His music and his contributions to the folk music community have left a lasting impact on the genre.

During the 1960s, Van Ronk was an integral part of the folk music revival, alongside other notable musicians such as Bob Dylan and Joan Baez. His distinctive voice and skilled guitar playing set him apart as a unique talent in the burgeoning folk scene. Van Ronk's influence extended beyond his music, as he also mentored and supported many up-and-coming musicians, shaping the direction of the folk music movement.

However, despite his success and influence, Van Ronk's quote reveals a sense of weariness and disillusionment with the music industry by the mid-1970s. This sentiment is not uncommon among musicians and artists who have been part of a rapidly changing and often challenging industry. The demanding nature of the music business, combined with the pressures of performing, touring, and maintaining a public persona, can take a toll on even the most dedicated and passionate artists.

Van Ronk's desire to "get out of the business" reflects a longing for a break from the demands of the industry and perhaps a yearning for a simpler, more authentic connection to music. It's important to note that the 1970s marked a significant shift in the music industry, with the rise of corporate influence and commercialization impacting the artistic freedom and creative autonomy of many musicians.

For Van Ronk, who had been a central figure in a movement known for its authenticity and social consciousness, the changing landscape of the music industry may have felt at odds with his artistic values. As a result, he expressed a sense of fatigue and a desire to distance himself from an industry that may have lost some of its original spirit and integrity.

Despite his weariness, Dave Van Ronk's impact on the folk music revival and his legacy as a musician and mentor continue to be celebrated. His music and his contributions to the folk scene have left an indelible mark on the genre, and his influence can still be felt in the work of contemporary folk artists.

In conclusion, Dave Van Ronk's quote reflects the complexities and challenges faced by artists within the music industry. His desire to step away from the business by the mid-70s speaks to the pressures and disillusionment that can arise within a rapidly changing and often commercialized industry. Despite his weariness, Van Ronk's legacy as a musician and mentor endures, leaving an enduring impact on the folk music genre.