Meaning: The quote by musician Mike Gordon touches on the balance between creating music for commercial success and creating music for artistic expression. Gordon suggests that while getting radio play may be a consideration for some artists when creating an album, it is not the primary factor in selecting the songs. This quote reflects the tension that many musicians face between staying true to their artistic vision and catering to commercial demands.

When artists set out to create an album, they often have various objectives in mind. For some, achieving radio play and commercial success is a significant goal. This may influence the selection of songs, with an emphasis on creating tracks that are catchy, easily digestible, and likely to appeal to a broad audience. However, for other artists, the primary focus may be on artistic expression, experimentation, and pushing creative boundaries. These artists may prioritize creating music that is deeply personal, innovative, and reflective of their unique vision, without being overly concerned about its commercial viability.

Mike Gordon's statement suggests that, for him and perhaps his band, the primary consideration in choosing songs for an album is not centered on the potential for radio play or commercial success. Instead, their focus may be on musical integrity, creativity, and expressing themselves authentically through their music. This approach reflects a commitment to artistic purity and a willingness to prioritize creative fulfillment over commercial considerations.

In the music industry, the tension between art and commerce is an age-old struggle. Many artists grapple with the need to balance their creative impulses with the demands of a market-driven industry. Some may find themselves compromising their artistic vision in pursuit of commercial success, while others may resist commercial pressures and strive to maintain their artistic integrity at all costs.

Gordon's perspective also raises questions about the role of radio play and commercial success in the music industry. While achieving radio play can undoubtedly elevate an artist's visibility and reach a broader audience, it can also lead to a certain level of homogenization in the music that gets produced and promoted. Artists who prioritize radio play may feel compelled to conform to mainstream trends and expectations, potentially sacrificing their unique creative voices in the process.

On the other hand, artists who prioritize artistic expression over commercial success may face challenges in reaching a wider audience and gaining recognition in a competitive industry. While their music may be innovative and artistically fulfilling, it may not always align with the preferences of mainstream audiences or radio programmers.

Ultimately, the quote by Mike Gordon sheds light on the complex dynamics at play in the music industry. It serves as a reminder that artists must navigate a delicate balance between artistic integrity and commercial viability, and that the choices they make in selecting songs for an album can have far-reaching implications for their careers and artistic legacies.

In conclusion, Mike Gordon's quote encapsulates the nuanced relationship between art and commerce in the music industry. It underscores the importance of considering the motives and priorities behind creating an album, and the potential trade-offs between artistic expression and commercial success. By highlighting the significance of song selection beyond just radio play, Gordon offers a thought-provoking perspective on the multifaceted nature of music creation and the challenges that artists face in navigating the intersection of art and commerce.