Meaning: The quote you provided is an expression of concern from Geezer Butler, a renowned musician and the bassist of the legendary heavy metal band Black Sabbath. In this quote, Butler is expressing his dissatisfaction with the current state of metal music, suggesting that it has become overly manufactured and lacks the genuine artistic expression that he associates with music.

When Butler mentions that metal music is "totally produced now" and compares it to a "conveyor belt," he is critiquing the commercialization and homogenization of the genre. The phrase "totally produced" implies that he feels the music has become overly polished and manufactured, possibly at the expense of raw emotion and authenticity. Comparing it to a "conveyor belt" suggests that metal music has become formulaic and mass-produced, lacking the individuality and creativity that he values in the art form.

Furthermore, Butler's statement that the current state of metal music is "not music to me" is a powerful declaration of his disappointment with the direction in which the genre has evolved. As a musician who has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound and ethos of heavy metal, Butler's perspective carries significant weight within the music community.

It's important to note that Butler's critique of contemporary metal music is not unique to him. Many fans and musicians within the metal community have expressed similar concerns about the commercialization and homogenization of the genre. The rise of digital production tools, streaming platforms, and the influence of corporate interests have all contributed to a shift in the way music is created, distributed, and consumed. These changes have led to debates about authenticity, artistic integrity, and the impact of commercialization on artistic expression.

In response to the challenges facing metal music, some artists and fans have sought to preserve the spirit of the genre by embracing DIY ethics, underground scenes, and a rejection of mainstream trends. This has led to the emergence of subgenres and movements that prioritize creativity, individuality, and a rejection of commercial pressures.

While Butler's critique may be seen as a lament for a bygone era of metal music, it also serves as a call to action for artists and fans to uphold the core values of the genre and resist the pressures of commercialization and homogenization. By recognizing the importance of authenticity and artistic expression, Butler's words encourage a reevaluation of the current state of metal music and a recommitment to its roots.

In conclusion, Geezer Butler's quote reflects a deep concern about the commercialization and homogenization of metal music, as well as a desire to uphold the values of authenticity and artistic expression within the genre. His perspective highlights the ongoing tension between artistic integrity and commercial pressures in the music industry, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the unique spirit of metal music.