Meaning:
The quote "My songs grow on people - like warts" is attributed to the late Glenn Frey, who was a founding member of the iconic rock band, the Eagles. As a musician, singer, songwriter, and actor, Frey made a significant impact on the music industry, leaving behind a legacy of timeless songs and memorable performances. This particular quote, while humorous in its delivery, holds deeper meaning when examined in the context of Frey's career and the nature of his music.
In interpreting this quote, it's important to consider the dual nature of the comparison. On one hand, the reference to warts, typically associated with a negative connotation, might seem peculiar when used in connection with music. Warts are often viewed as unwanted, unsightly growths that can be difficult to remove. However, on the other hand, the idea of songs growing on people is a common sentiment in the world of music. It speaks to the way certain melodies, lyrics, and rhythms can embed themselves in the minds and hearts of listeners, gradually becoming more appreciated and cherished over time.
Frey's choice of words in this quote may reflect his understanding of the gradual and sometimes unexpected impact that his music had on audiences. Just as warts can grow on the skin without immediate notice, his songs may have crept into people's consciousness, gradually becoming a part of their musical landscape. It's a playful yet thought-provoking analogy that invites reflection on the enduring, infectious nature of his music.
When examining Frey's career and the music he created with the Eagles, it becomes evident that his songs did indeed "grow on people" in a manner akin to the gradual development of warts. The Eagles' repertoire includes numerous classic hits that have stood the test of time and continue to resonate with audiences across generations. Songs like "Hotel California," "Take It Easy," "Desperado," and "Lyin' Eyes" have become ingrained in the fabric of popular music, their appeal enduring and expanding over the years.
What sets Frey's music apart is its ability to embed itself in the listener's consciousness in a way that is reminiscent of the growth of warts. Initially unassuming, his songs have a way of persisting and leaving a lasting impression, much like the gradual emergence of warts. The analogy, therefore, serves as a testament to the enduring impact and staying power of his musical creations.
Furthermore, the quote offers insight into Frey's perception of his own work and its reception by the public. It suggests a level of self-awareness and humility, as he humorously acknowledges the gradual, almost unnoticed way in which his music may have taken root in the lives of his listeners. Rather than claiming instant, overwhelming appeal, he presents his songs as entities that quietly grow on people, much like warts do, until they become an integral part of their musical experience.
In conclusion, Glenn Frey's quote "My songs grow on people - like warts" encapsulates the enduring impact and gradual resonance of his music. It reflects his understanding of the subtle, persistent manner in which his songs have embedded themselves in the hearts and minds of listeners, much like the gradual growth of warts. This quote serves as a whimsical yet insightful commentary on the enduring appeal of Frey's musical legacy, highlighting the lasting impression his songs have made on audiences worldwide.