Meaning: This quote by Adam Duritz, the lead vocalist of the band Counting Crows, provides insight into the nature of creating music and the longevity of a musical career. In essence, Duritz is highlighting the unpredictable nature of success in the music industry, emphasizing that not all songs on an album may become hits, and not all hits may end up on a greatest hits album. Nevertheless, the presence of successful songs is crucial for the longevity of a music career.

One of the key points that Duritz's quote underscores is the inherent unpredictability of the music industry. Despite the effort and creativity that artists put into crafting albums, the reception of individual songs can be highly unpredictable. Some songs may resonate deeply with audiences and become hits, while others may not receive the same level of recognition, despite their artistic merit. This unpredictability is a hallmark of the music industry and underscores the challenges that musicians face in navigating the commercial aspects of their craft.

Furthermore, Duritz's reference to greatest hits albums containing songs that were not necessarily hits speaks to the complex nature of curating such compilations. While greatest hits albums are typically intended to showcase an artist's most successful and well-known tracks, there may be instances where personal favorites or critically acclaimed but commercially overlooked songs are included. This highlights the multifaceted nature of an artist's body of work and the various factors that contribute to the selection of songs for compilation albums.

The notion of a music career being sustained by successful songs is a central theme in Duritz's quote. He emphasizes that the reason for an artist's longevity in the industry is rooted in the presence of successful songs. This concept underscores the importance of achieving commercial success to maintain relevance and sustainability in the music industry. Successful songs not only contribute to an artist's discography but also play a pivotal role in shaping their legacy and enduring appeal.

In essence, Duritz's quote offers a candid perspective on the realities of creating music and navigating the music industry. It acknowledges the dichotomy between artistic expression and commercial success, highlighting the nuanced interplay between creating albums, producing hits, and sustaining a long-term career. The quote provides valuable insight into the challenges and dynamics that musicians grapple with as they strive to create impactful and enduring music.

In conclusion, Adam Duritz's quote encapsulates the intricate relationship between creativity, commercial success, and longevity in the music industry. It serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of musical success, the complexities of compiling greatest hits albums, and the significance of successful songs in shaping the trajectory of a music career. By shedding light on these aspects, the quote enriches our understanding of the multifaceted dynamics that musicians contend with as they navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry.