Meaning: Maynard Keenan, the musician and frontman of the bands Tool, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer, made this quote in reference to the challenges of the music industry. The statement reflects the significant shifts in the music business over the past few decades, particularly in the era of digital streaming and downloading.

In the past, record sales were the primary source of revenue for musicians and record labels. However, the rise of digital music platforms and online piracy has drastically altered the landscape. With the ease of access to free or low-cost music online, the traditional model of selling records as the main source of income for musicians has become increasingly challenging.

Keenan's quote emphasizes the high threshold for profitability in the current music industry. Breaking even, which refers to recouping the expenses incurred in producing and promoting an album, now requires the sale of hundreds of thousands to millions of records. This stark reality highlights the financial pressures faced by musicians and the uphill battle to achieve financial success through album sales alone.

The shift in consumer behavior towards digital music consumption has led to a decline in physical album sales. While streaming services provide convenient access to a vast library of music, the revenue generated from these platforms is often significantly lower for artists compared to traditional album sales. This has further contributed to the financial challenges faced by musicians and the increased difficulty in turning a profit from their work.

Moreover, the evolving nature of the music industry has also impacted the role of record labels. With the traditional record deal model, artists often had to rely on advances from the label to cover production costs, marketing, and other expenses. These advances would then need to be recouped through album sales before the artist could start earning royalties. However, with the changing dynamics of music consumption and sales, the traditional model has become less sustainable for many artists.

In response to these challenges, artists have increasingly diversified their revenue streams. Live performances, merchandise sales, and licensing deals have become essential sources of income for many musicians. By leveraging these alternative revenue streams, artists can supplement the income generated from album sales and streaming royalties.

Furthermore, the rise of crowdfunding platforms has provided artists with a direct line to their fan base, allowing them to finance their projects and connect with their audience on a more personal level. This shift towards direct-to-fan engagement has empowered artists to take more control over their careers and finances, bypassing the traditional gatekeepers of the music industry.

In conclusion, Maynard Keenan's quote encapsulates the harsh realities of the modern music industry, where achieving financial viability through album sales alone has become increasingly challenging. The paradigm shift towards digital music consumption, coupled with the decline in physical album sales, has forced artists to adapt and explore alternative revenue streams. While the traditional model of selling records to break even may no longer hold true, artists have found new opportunities to connect with their audience and generate income through innovative approaches to music distribution and monetization.