Meaning: Derek Bailey, a British avant-garde guitarist and leading figure in the free improvisation movement, made the statement "I have always been attracted to the cottage industry side of this business." This quote reflects Bailey's perspective on the music industry and his preference for a more independent, grassroots approach to creating and distributing music.

Bailey's reference to the "cottage industry side" of the business suggests a preference for a smaller-scale, more personalized approach to music production and distribution. In traditional economic terms, a cottage industry refers to a small-scale, decentralized manufacturing model in which goods are produced by individuals or small groups, often within their own homes or small workshops. By likening the music industry to a cottage industry, Bailey may be expressing a preference for a more intimate, less corporate approach to creating and sharing music.

One interpretation of Bailey's statement is that he values the autonomy and creative control that come with a cottage industry approach. In a cottage industry, producers have greater freedom to experiment, innovate, and express their artistic vision without the constraints imposed by larger commercial interests. This aligns with Bailey’s reputation as an uncompromising and fiercely independent musician who pushed the boundaries of conventional music-making.

Furthermore, Bailey's attraction to the cottage industry side of the business may also reflect his desire for a more direct and personal connection with his audience. In a cottage industry model, creators often have closer relationships with their customers, who may value the unique, handcrafted nature of the products they purchase. By embracing the cottage industry ethos, Bailey may be signaling a desire to maintain a more intimate and authentic relationship with those who appreciate his music.

From a historical perspective, Bailey's statement can be viewed in the context of the changing landscape of the music industry. Over the past few decades, technological advances have revolutionized the way music is created, distributed, and consumed, leading to a democratization of the industry. Independent artists and small labels have increasingly been able to bypass traditional gatekeepers and directly connect with their audiences through digital platforms and social media. This shift has empowered musicians to operate more like cottage industries, managing their own production, promotion, and sales.

In the context of the broader music industry, Bailey's statement also speaks to the value of diversity and decentralization. While major record labels and commercial forces have historically dominated the music business, the cottage industry approach represents an alternative, more grassroots model that celebrates diversity, individuality, and artistic freedom. By expressing his attraction to this side of the business, Bailey may be advocating for a more inclusive and varied musical landscape.

In conclusion, Derek Bailey's quote "I have always been attracted to the cottage industry side of this business" encapsulates his affinity for a more intimate, independent, and personalized approach to music production and distribution. It reflects his commitment to artistic autonomy, direct engagement with audiences, and a broader vision of the music industry that embraces diversity and individual expression. As the music industry continues to evolve, Bailey's perspective serves as a reminder of the enduring value of creativity, independence, and the human connection at the heart of music-making.