Meaning: The quote by musician Adam Ant reflects the challenges he faced in the music industry, particularly during a period when the traditional model of record sales and label support was undergoing significant changes. In this quote, Adam Ant candidly discusses the decline in record sales, his struggles with record companies, and the negative impact on his career.

During the time Adam Ant refers to, the music industry was experiencing a shift in consumer behavior, with a noticeable decrease in the purchase of physical records. The rise of digital music platforms and file sharing had a profound impact on the way people accessed and consumed music. This shift in consumer habits had a direct effect on the sales and success of traditional record albums, causing frustration and uncertainty for many artists and record labels.

In addition to the changing landscape of music consumption, Adam Ant mentions his record company's lack of support for him. This highlights the challenges that artists often face when dealing with record labels, which have significant control and influence over an artist's career. If a record label is not fully behind an artist or does not see commercial potential in their work, it can have detrimental effects on the artist's career trajectory.

Adam Ant's experience with three different record companies further underscores the difficulties he encountered in finding stable and supportive partnerships within the industry. The constant change in representation and lack of continuity can disrupt an artist's creative process and overall career progression. It also suggests that the industry may have been in flux during this time, with labels struggling to adapt to the new music consumption landscape.

The mention of touring at the wrong time reflects the impact of timing and external factors on an artist's success. Touring is a critical component of promoting and sustaining a music career, but external circumstances such as market saturation, economic downturns, or shifting cultural trends can significantly affect the success of a tour. Adam Ant's experience highlights the vulnerability of artists to external influences beyond their control, which can have a profound impact on their livelihood and creative output.

The emotional toll of these challenges is evident in Adam Ant's statement that it "destroyed" him. This candid admission sheds light on the personal and psychological impact of facing adversity in the music industry. The pressures of commercial success, coupled with the uncertainties of an ever-changing industry, can take a heavy toll on an artist's mental and emotional well-being.

In conclusion, Adam Ant's quote provides a poignant glimpse into the challenges he faced during a tumultuous time in the music industry. The decline in record sales, lack of support from record companies, and the impact of timing on touring all contributed to the difficulties he encountered. This quote serves as a reminder of the complex and often unforgiving nature of the music business, where external forces can profoundly affect the careers and well-being of artists.