Meaning: The quote "I like being infamous. I think it is safe being a cult" by Adam Ant, the English musician and lead singer of the new wave band Adam and the Ants, reflects his unconventional approach to fame and his willingness to embrace a more alternative, niche following. In order to understand the meaning behind this quote, it is important to delve into the context of Adam Ant's career and his unique perspective on celebrity and music.

Adam Ant, born Stuart Leslie Goddard, rose to prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s as a prominent figure in the UK music scene. Known for his distinctive style, which combined elements of punk, glam rock, and new wave, Adam Ant cultivated a dedicated fan base and garnered a reputation for his eccentric and flamboyant stage persona. His music, characterized by catchy rhythms, bold lyrical themes, and a visually striking aesthetic, earned him a devoted following that embraced his unconventional approach to both music and fame.

The quote "I like being infamous. I think it is safe being a cult" encapsulates Adam Ant's attitude towards the traditional trappings of mainstream celebrity. Rather than seeking widespread acclaim and mass appeal, he expresses a preference for the relative safety and authenticity of being a cult figure. In this context, the term "infamous" suggests a level of notoriety or unconventional fame that may not conform to societal norms. Instead of aspiring to conventional notions of success and recognition, Adam Ant finds comfort and security in the dedicated, albeit smaller, following of a "cult" artist.

By embracing the concept of being a cult figure, Adam Ant highlights the value of authenticity and artistic integrity over commercial success. In the music industry, where artists often face pressures to conform to market demands and achieve widespread commercial success, his perspective offers a refreshing alternative. Rather than compromising his artistic vision to cater to mainstream trends, he embraces the idea of being a beacon for a more discerning and dedicated audience.

Furthermore, the quote reflects Adam Ant's understanding of the inherent challenges and pitfalls of mainstream fame. By expressing a preference for being infamous and cultivating a cult following, he implies a degree of freedom from the intense scrutiny and pressures that often accompany mainstream success. In the world of popular culture, where the spotlight can be both alluring and unforgiving, Adam Ant's willingness to embrace a more niche, loyal fan base suggests a desire for a more genuine and sustainable connection with his audience.

In conclusion, Adam Ant's quote "I like being infamous. I think it is safe being a cult" offers insight into his unconventional approach to fame and his commitment to artistic authenticity. By choosing to prioritize the depth and loyalty of a cult following over the superficial allure of mainstream recognition, he reaffirms the value of staying true to one's artistic vision and embracing a more nuanced, dedicated fan base. In doing so, Adam Ant invites us to reconsider the conventional notions of success and fame, encouraging us to appreciate the safety and authenticity of being a cult figure in a world often dominated by the pursuit of mainstream acclaim.