Meaning:
This quote by Emma Anderson, a musician best known for her work as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter in the band Lush, reflects the common experience of artists and performers who struggle to maintain public attention and interest over time. The quote captures the fleeting nature of media attention and the challenges of sustaining a career in the music industry.
Anderson's observation about the fickleness of the press highlights the reality that artists often experience a surge of attention and publicity at certain points in their careers, only to see it wane as new trends emerge and the media's focus shifts to other subjects. This fluctuation in media coverage can be particularly challenging for musicians and bands, as they rely on public visibility to promote their work, book performances, and connect with their audience.
The phrase "we've done well to keep going" suggests resilience and perseverance in the face of these challenges. Anderson's acknowledgment of her band's ability to persist despite the ebb and flow of media attention speaks to the determination and passion that drive many artists to continue creating and performing, even when the spotlight dims.
In the context of the music industry, maintaining relevance and momentum can be a constant struggle. Artists must navigate the complexities of an ever-evolving market, changing audience tastes, and an increasingly crowded media landscape. While some may experience a meteoric rise to fame, sustaining that level of attention and success often requires ongoing effort, adaptability, and a willingness to weather periods of relative obscurity.
The quote also sheds light on the broader issue of how artists define success and fulfillment in their careers. In an industry that often measures achievement in terms of chart positions, awards, and media visibility, Anderson's words emphasize the importance of finding satisfaction in the act of creating and performing music, regardless of external recognition.
For musicians and bands, the ability to "keep going" may involve diversifying their creative output, exploring new musical directions, or finding alternative avenues to engage with their audience, such as through live performances, collaborations, or independent releases. It may also entail cultivating a loyal fan base that appreciates their artistry beyond the fluctuations of mainstream attention.
In conclusion, Emma Anderson's quote encapsulates the cyclical nature of media attention, the resilience required to sustain a career in music, and the broader challenges that artists face in navigating the ever-changing landscape of the industry. It serves as a reminder that success in music is not solely defined by fleeting moments of press coverage or commercial accolades, but by the ability to persevere, evolve, and find fulfillment in the creative process itself.