Meaning: The quote "We're not trying to top ourselves with each record, obviously" by Bruce Johnston, a musician known for his work with the Beach Boys, reflects a humble and pragmatic approach to creating music. In the context of the music industry, where artists are often pressured to consistently produce chart-topping hits and surpass their previous successes, Johnston's statement offers a refreshing perspective on artistic integrity and the creative process.

One interpretation of this quote is that Johnston is emphasizing the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision and not succumbing to the pressure of outdoing previous achievements. Instead of constantly striving to surpass their own work, artists should focus on creating music that is authentic and meaningful to them. This mindset allows for a more organic and honest creative process, free from the constraints of unrealistic expectations and commercial pressures.

Furthermore, Johnston's statement can be seen as a rejection of the notion that artistic success is solely defined by commercial performance or critical acclaim. By acknowledging that the goal is not to "top ourselves with each record," he highlights the value of artistic growth and exploration, even if it doesn't necessarily lead to chart-topping success. This perspective encourages artists to prioritize personal fulfillment and creative evolution over the pursuit of external validation or accolades.

In a broader sense, the quote also speaks to the concept of artistic evolution and the natural progression of creativity. Rather than viewing each new record as a competition against previous works, Johnston's perspective suggests that each album should be seen as a unique chapter in an artist's creative journey. This approach allows for a more fluid and open-minded exploration of musical expression, unencumbered by the burden of constantly trying to outdo oneself.

Moreover, Johnston's statement may also reflect a sense of humility and groundedness in the face of success. By acknowledging that the goal is not to constantly top their previous records, artists can maintain a sense of perspective and balance, avoiding the pitfalls of ego-driven creativity or the relentless pursuit of commercial success at the expense of artistic integrity.

In conclusion, Bruce Johnston's quote "We're not trying to top ourselves with each record, obviously" offers a valuable perspective on the creative process and the mindset of artists in the music industry. It emphasizes the importance of authenticity, artistic growth, and humility, and serves as a reminder that true artistic success should be measured by the integrity and sincerity of the music created, rather than by arbitrary standards of commercial achievement. This quote encourages artists to approach their craft with a sense of purpose and genuine expression, free from the pressures of constant comparison and competition with their own past work.