Meaning: This quote reflects the journey of a musician who has experienced a significant transformation in their career. Jon Crosby's words convey the stark contrast between the early struggles and the current success, offering insight into the evolution of their live performances and the changing dynamics of their audience engagement.

In the first part of the quote, Crosby reminisces about the challenging times when they used to perform in front of only a couple of people in the southern region. This sets the stage for understanding the humble beginnings and the initial hurdles faced by the musician. The imagery of playing in front of just two people evokes a sense of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. It speaks to the resilience required to continue pursuing a passion despite the lack of immediate recognition or large audiences.

The subsequent part of the quote highlights a remarkable shift in the musician's career trajectory. Crosby expresses astonishment at the positive turn of events, emphasizing the notable improvement in their live shows. The contrast between playing in front of a mere few individuals to now experiencing consistently great performances signifies a profound transformation. This transformation is not only in terms of the size of the audience but also in the quality of their shows.

Furthermore, Crosby's mention of the warm-up shows adds another layer to the narrative. These shows, which were not heavily promoted yet managed to sell out, underscore the growing demand for the musician's performances. The shift from struggling to attract even a small crowd to having unadvertised warm-up shows sell out signifies a significant change in their popularity and the reception of their music.

The quote closes with Crosby expressing bewilderment at the dramatic shift, indicating that this newfound success is beyond what they had previously experienced. This sense of disbelief hints at the magnitude of the change and the rapid pace at which their career has evolved. It conveys a mix of gratitude, surprise, and perhaps a touch of uncertainty about the inexplicable transformation.

From a broader perspective, this quote encapsulates the classic narrative of an artist's journey – from obscurity to acclaim. It speaks to the perseverance, dedication, and talent required to navigate the challenges of the music industry. The quote also resonates with the experience of many artists who undergo a similar transition from struggling to find an audience to enjoying widespread recognition and success.

In conclusion, Jon Crosby's quote encapsulates the profound transformation in their music career, from playing in front of a handful of people in the early days to experiencing consistently successful shows. It serves as a testament to the resilience and evolution of an artist, offering a glimpse into the dynamics of their journey and the changing landscape of their live performances.