Meaning: This quote by John Deacon, the bassist of the legendary rock band Queen, reflects the band's autonomy and control over their music and releases. Throughout their career, Queen was known for their innovative and genre-defying music, and this quote highlights their determination to maintain creative control over their output.

In the context of the music industry, artists often face pressure from record labels and industry executives to release certain songs as singles or to conform to market trends. However, Deacon's statement emphasizes Queen's commitment to making their own decisions about which songs to release as singles and how to present their music to the world.

This level of artistic independence was not always common in the music industry, particularly during the time when Queen rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s. Many artists experienced significant pressure from record companies to adhere to commercial formulas and industry standards when selecting singles for release. In contrast, Queen's approach allowed them to showcase the breadth of their musical talent and diversity, presenting a wide range of musical styles and themes to their audience.

By retaining control over their single releases, Queen was able to showcase their versatility as a band. From the operatic rock of "Bohemian Rhapsody" to the stadium anthem "We Will Rock You" and the introspective ballad "Who Wants to Live Forever," their singles spanned a wide spectrum of musical genres and emotions. This approach not only demonstrated their musical prowess but also endeared them to a diverse and dedicated fan base.

Moreover, Queen's insistence on making their own decisions about single releases reflects their commitment to artistic integrity. It allowed them to prioritize their creative vision and maintain authenticity in their music, rather than succumbing to external pressures or commercial demands. This dedication to artistic freedom and control over their work likely contributed to the enduring legacy of their music and its continued relevance across generations.

In a broader sense, Deacon's statement speaks to the importance of artistic autonomy and the ability for musicians to make decisions that align with their creative vision. It highlights the significance of maintaining artistic control in an industry that can often prioritize commercial success over artistic expression. Queen's approach serves as a powerful example of how artists can assert their independence and create music that is true to their unique artistic identity.

Overall, John Deacon's quote encapsulates Queen's commitment to artistic autonomy and the importance of making decisions that resonate with their creative vision. Their ability to choose their own singles and maintain control over their music allowed them to leave a lasting impact on the music industry and cement their status as one of the most influential and beloved bands in the history of rock music.