Meaning: The quote "I recorded with Sinatra, but the recording business is a very strange strata right now" by Skitch Henderson, a renowned musician and conductor, offers insight into the complexities and challenges faced by artists and musicians in the ever-evolving landscape of the recording industry. Skitch Henderson's words encapsulate the nuanced nature of the music business, highlighting both the opportunities and obstacles that musicians encounter in their pursuit of artistic expression and commercial success.

Skitch Henderson, born Lyle Russell Cedric Henderson, was a prominent figure in the music industry, known for his work as a pianist, conductor, and bandleader. His experience collaborating with legendary artists such as Frank Sinatra provides a glimpse into the inner workings of the recording business during his time. Henderson's statement reflects a sense of ambiguity and uncertainty surrounding the industry, indicating that the dynamics and structures within the recording business are in a state of flux.

The mention of recording with Sinatra underscores Henderson's firsthand experience with the high echelons of the music industry. Collaborating with an iconic figure like Sinatra not only speaks to Henderson's talent and reputation but also sheds light on the intricacies of the recording process and the relationships between artists, producers, and record labels. This experience likely exposed Henderson to the inner workings of the industry, including the challenges and idiosyncrasies that define the "strange strata" he refers to.

The phrase "strange strata" suggests a multifaceted and enigmatic environment within the recording business. It implies that the industry is layered, complex, and perhaps unpredictable, with various forces at play that influence the creation, distribution, and consumption of music. This characterization aligns with the ever-changing nature of the music business, where technological advancements, shifting consumer behaviors, and industry practices continually reshape the landscape in which artists operate.

Henderson's observation about the current state of the recording business prompts reflection on the challenges and opportunities that musicians face in today's digital age. The advent of digital streaming platforms, online music stores, and social media has revolutionized the way music is produced, marketed, and consumed. While these technological advancements have democratized access to music and expanded artists' reach, they have also disrupted traditional revenue models and introduced new complexities to the industry.

Furthermore, the "strange strata" of the recording business may allude to the power dynamics and economic realities that shape the experiences of musicians. Issues such as royalty distribution, intellectual property rights, and the influence of corporate entities on artistic expression are part of the intricate tapestry that defines the contemporary music industry. Navigating this terrain requires not only talent and creativity but also business acumen and an understanding of the evolving mechanisms that drive the commercial aspects of music.

Henderson's words serve as a reminder that the recording business is a multifaceted ecosystem, characterized by a blend of artistic passion, commercial imperatives, and technological disruptions. As musicians navigate this landscape, they must adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of the industry while staying true to their artistic vision. Understanding the "strange strata" of the recording business entails grappling with its complexities, embracing innovation, and advocating for fair treatment and compensation within a rapidly evolving environment.

In conclusion, Skitch Henderson's quote offers a thought-provoking glimpse into the challenges and enigmas of the recording business. His experience recording with Sinatra and his astute observation about the "strange strata" of the industry provide valuable insights into the complexities, uncertainties, and opportunities that define the contemporary music business. By contemplating Henderson's words, musicians and industry stakeholders can gain a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of the recording industry and the ongoing efforts to navigate its ever-evolving terrain.