Meaning: This quote by musician Jackson Browne reflects on the changing landscape of the music industry and the opportunities it presented to artists during his career. Born in 1948, Browne came of age during a period of significant transformation in the music business, particularly with the rise of independent and self-publishing opportunities for artists. In this quote, Browne acknowledges the advantages of being born at a time when such opportunities were becoming more accessible.

During the 1960s and 1970s, when Browne was beginning his career as a musician, the traditional model of the music industry was dominated by major record labels and publishing companies. Artists often had to sign with these companies in order to have their music recorded, produced, and distributed to a wide audience. This system often meant that artists had to relinquish a significant portion of their rights and earnings in exchange for the support and resources provided by these companies.

However, as technology advanced and the internet became more prevalent, the music industry began to undergo a profound shift. The rise of digital music platforms and the ability to self-publish and distribute music online meant that artists had newfound independence and control over their work. Browne's comment reflects the impact of these changes on his own career, as he was able to establish his own publishing company and retain a larger share of the revenue generated by his music.

By having his own publishing company, Browne was able to benefit directly from the sales and licensing of his music, rather than relying on a third-party publisher to manage these aspects of his career. This level of autonomy and financial independence was not as readily available to artists in previous decades, and Browne recognizes the advantages this afforded him.

In addition to the financial benefits, Browne's ability to have his own publishing company also provided him with greater creative control and ownership over his work. This allowed him to make decisions about how his music was marketed, licensed, and used, giving him a level of artistic agency that was not always afforded to artists under the traditional model of the music industry.

Browne's perspective on the timing of his career highlights the ways in which changes in the music industry have impacted the opportunities available to artists. The quote also serves as a reflection on the broader shifts in the industry and the increasing empowerment of musicians to take ownership of their creative output and financial destiny.

Overall, Jackson Browne's quote captures the spirit of innovation and independence that emerged as a result of the evolving music industry. It serves as a reminder of the opportunities that have emerged for artists to chart their own paths and achieve financial success on their own terms.