Meaning: This quote by musician Jimmy Black reflects an interesting perspective on the relationship between image and identity in the music industry. In this quote, Black discusses his dissatisfaction with a dress he wore for a photo shoot, acknowledging that it didn't fit him but still considering it a great picture. He also mentions the precedent set by The Rolling Stones, who had previously done a photo shoot in drag, and uses this as a justification for his own band's decision to do the same.

The quote touches on several important themes, including the significance of visual representation in the music industry, the influence of established artists on emerging ones, and the complex interplay between personal expression and public perception.

One of the key aspects of this quote is the idea of the band's image and how it relates to the broader cultural and historical context of the music industry. The decision to wear drag for a photo shoot is a deliberate choice that carries with it a range of connotations and implications. Drag has a long history as a form of artistic expression and subversion of traditional gender roles, and its use in the context of rock music can be seen as a statement about identity, rebellion, and the blurring of boundaries.

Furthermore, Black's reference to The Rolling Stones highlights the idea of influence and precedent in the music industry. Established artists often set trends and push boundaries, and their actions can have a significant impact on the choices made by newer or less established musicians. By citing The Rolling Stones as a point of reference, Black is not only justifying his band's decision to wear drag but also positioning their actions within a broader historical narrative of rock and roll.

Additionally, the quote raises questions about the relationship between personal comfort and public image. Black's acknowledgment that the dress didn't fit him suggests a tension between his own feelings about the outfit and the perceived value of the resulting image. This tension speaks to the complex negotiation that artists often face between staying true to themselves and meeting the expectations of their audience and the industry.

In a broader sense, this quote can also be seen as a reflection of the evolving nature of gender and identity in popular culture. The willingness of musicians like The Rolling Stones and Jimmy Black's band to challenge traditional gender norms through their visual representations speaks to a larger cultural shift in which ideas about gender and self-expression are being reexamined and redefined.

In conclusion, Jimmy Black's quote offers a thought-provoking insight into the multifaceted nature of image and identity in the music industry. Through his reflections on the decision to wear drag for a photo shoot, his reference to The Rolling Stones, and his acknowledgement of the tension between personal comfort and public image, the quote raises important questions about the role of visual representation in music, the influence of established artists, and the evolving landscape of gender and identity in popular culture.