Meaning: The quote "Stop doing what the record companies are doing and do what's in your heart" by Leif Garrett, a musician, encapsulates the essence of artistic integrity and the importance of staying true to oneself in the music industry. This powerful statement serves as a reminder for musicians to prioritize their own creative vision and authenticity over conforming to the demands and trends set by record labels and industry standards.

In the music industry, artists often face pressure from record companies to fit into certain molds or to produce music that aligns with prevailing commercial trends. This can lead to a dilution of the artist's unique voice and vision, as they may find themselves compromising their artistic integrity in pursuit of commercial success. Leif Garrett's quote encourages musicians to resist this pressure and instead focus on creating music that genuinely resonates with them and reflects their personal experiences, emotions, and beliefs.

By urging musicians to follow their hearts, Leif Garrett emphasizes the importance of authenticity and self-expression in music. Authenticity in music refers to the genuine and sincere expression of an artist's thoughts, emotions, and experiences through their music. When artists stay true to themselves and create music that is deeply personal and authentic, it often resonates more strongly with audiences, fostering a deeper connection and emotional impact.

Furthermore, following one's heart in music allows for greater artistic freedom and innovation. When musicians prioritize their own creative instincts and inspirations, they are more likely to push boundaries, explore new sounds, and break away from formulaic approaches to music. This can result in the creation of truly original and groundbreaking music that defies conventions and leaves a lasting impact on the industry and listeners.

Leif Garrett's quote also highlights the potential pitfalls of conforming to the expectations of record companies. While commercial success and mainstream recognition are often important goals for musicians, blindly adhering to industry trends and demands can lead to a loss of individuality and artistic vision. Moreover, it can contribute to the homogenization of music, where artists produce formulaic, cookie-cutter songs that lack depth and personal significance.

In essence, "Stop doing what the record companies are doing and do what's in your heart" serves as a rallying cry for musicians to reclaim their creative agency and prioritize their unique artistic expressions. It encourages artists to resist external pressures and instead focus on creating music that is authentic, heartfelt, and true to their own creative instincts.

Ultimately, Leif Garrett's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring value of artistic integrity and the transformative power of music that springs from the heart. It resonates with musicians and music enthusiasts alike, underscoring the timeless importance of staying true to one's artistic vision and creating music that emanates from a place of genuine passion and authenticity.