Meaning: This quote by Placido Domingo, a renowned musician and operatic tenor, reflects on the contrasting attitudes toward financial success in the music industry. He points out the lack of surprise when pop singers amass great wealth within a short period, suggesting that this occurrence has become normalized or expected. The underlying implication is that the music industry values and rewards certain genres or types of musicians more readily than others.

Placido Domingo's observation brings attention to the disparities in the music industry, where popular culture often elevates and celebrates the financial success of pop singers, while other genres, such as classical or opera, may not receive the same level of recognition or financial reward. This raises questions about the societal and cultural factors that contribute to these disparities, as well as the values and priorities of the music industry and its audience.

One interpretation of this quote is that it highlights the commercialized nature of the music industry, where certain genres or styles of music are more marketable and profitable than others. Pop music, with its broad appeal and commercial viability, often dominates the charts and receives extensive media coverage, leading to substantial financial gain for successful pop singers. In contrast, the classical and opera genres, while artistically rich and culturally significant, may struggle to achieve the same level of commercial success and financial reward in today's music market.

Furthermore, the quote also sheds light on the broader societal attitudes toward different forms of music and the artists who create them. It suggests a tendency to prioritize and celebrate the financial success of pop singers, while overlooking or undervaluing the achievements of musicians in other genres. This reflects a cultural bias that equates financial success with talent and recognition, potentially overshadowing the artistic merit and cultural contributions of musicians in less commercially prominent genres.

In the context of Placido Domingo's own career as an opera singer, this quote may also be seen as a reflection of his experiences and observations within the music industry. As a celebrated figure in the classical and opera world, Domingo has likely witnessed firsthand the challenges and disparities faced by artists in these genres, despite their exceptional talent and artistic contributions. His statement serves as a reminder of the need to recognize and support musicians across all genres, acknowledging their artistic impact and contribution to the diversity of musical expression.

In conclusion, Placido Domingo's quote encapsulates a critical commentary on the unequal treatment and valuation of musicians in different genres within the music industry and broader society. It draws attention to the prevailing attitudes toward financial success, fame, and recognition, and the implications of these attitudes for artists in various musical genres. By provoking contemplation on these issues, the quote prompts a reconsideration of the value placed on diverse forms of musical expression and the equitable treatment of musicians across the industry.