Meaning: Kenny Hickey, a musician best known as the guitarist and co-founder of the gothic metal band Type O Negative, made the statement, "I look at it as one single entity. I dehumanize the audience. This way, I don't get nervous, you know?" This quote provides insight into Hickey's perspective on performing for an audience and offers a glimpse into the mindset of a musician when faced with the pressure of live performances.

In the quote, Hickey expresses his approach to dealing with the anxiety and nervousness that often accompany live performances. By "dehumanizing the audience," he dissociates himself from the individuals comprising the crowd, viewing them as a collective entity rather than a group of distinct individuals. This mental shift allows him to distance himself from the potential intimidation or pressure that may arise from acknowledging the presence of a large audience.

The concept of dehumanizing the audience can be interpreted in various ways. It may involve viewing the audience as a singular mass rather than a collection of individuals, which can help alleviate the pressure of performing in front of a large group. Additionally, dehumanization can serve as a psychological defense mechanism, enabling performers to focus on their craft without being overwhelmed by the individual gaze of countless spectators.

One potential interpretation of Hickey's statement is that by dehumanizing the audience, he is able to shift his focus away from the potential judgment or scrutiny of individual audience members. Instead, he sees the audience as a unified entity, allowing him to channel his energy and attention into delivering a compelling performance without succumbing to nerves or self-doubt.

It's important to note that Hickey's approach may not resonate with all performers, as each artist may have their own strategies for managing performance anxiety. For some, connecting with individual audience members and drawing energy from their presence may be a source of inspiration and motivation. However, Hickey's perspective sheds light on the diversity of approaches to managing the psychological challenges of live performance.

From a psychological standpoint, dehumanization of the audience can be seen as a coping mechanism that enables performers to navigate the emotional and psychological demands of the spotlight. By reframing the audience as a singular entity, performers like Hickey may find it easier to immerse themselves in their music and stage presence, free from the distractions or pressures that individual scrutiny might bring.

Furthermore, Hickey's statement underscores the complexity of the performer-audience dynamic. While the audience plays a crucial role in shaping the atmosphere and energy of a live performance, the psychological impact of performing in front of a crowd can vary widely among artists. Hickey's approach provides a glimpse into the inner workings of a musician's mindset, highlighting the strategies and mental frameworks that can help them navigate the challenges of live performance.

In conclusion, Kenny Hickey's statement, "I look at it as one single entity. I dehumanize the audience. This way, I don't get nervous, you know?" offers a thought-provoking perspective on the psychological strategies employed by performers to manage the pressures of live performance. By dehumanizing the audience, Hickey adopts a mindset that allows him to distance himself from individual scrutiny and focus on delivering an engaging and impactful performance. This quote serves as a reminder of the diverse approaches and coping mechanisms utilized by artists to navigate the emotional and psychological complexities of the stage.