Meaning: The quote "Traditionally the show must go on which is a stupid thing to say, but that in a nutshell is what's going on. We have a new record out; if we won't tour, the new record dies. It's reality - it's what business is nowadays. You just need to tour to sell your albums." is attributed to Kerry King, a musician known for being the co-founder and guitarist of the thrash metal band Slayer. In this quote, King is discussing the necessity of touring to promote and sell new music in the modern music industry.

The first part of the quote, "Traditionally the show must go on which is a stupid thing to say, but that in a nutshell is what's going on," seems to reflect King's acknowledgment of the cliché nature of the phrase "the show must go on." This phrase, often associated with the world of entertainment, conveys the idea that regardless of any difficulties or obstacles, a performance or event should continue as planned. King's dismissal of this sentiment as "stupid" may indicate his frustration with the pressure to always deliver and persevere in the music industry, despite the challenges and demands it presents.

The second part of the quote, "We have a new record out; if we won't tour, the new record dies. It's reality - it's what business is nowadays. You just need to tour to sell your albums," delves into the economic and promotional aspects of being a musician in the contemporary music landscape. King emphasizes the crucial role of touring in the success of a new album, highlighting the harsh reality that without extensive touring, the album may struggle to gain traction and reach its audience. This perspective underscores the shift in the music business where live performances and touring have become primary sources of revenue and exposure for artists, especially in an era when album sales have declined due to the prevalence of digital streaming and piracy.

King's statement encapsulates the dilemma faced by many musicians and bands in today's industry. While creating new music is a core aspect of their artistic expression, the commercial viability of their work often hinges on their ability to tour effectively and connect with fans through live performances. The pressure to constantly tour and promote new material can be physically and mentally taxing for artists, as they strive to balance their creative pursuits with the demands of the market.

Additionally, King's assertion sheds light on the fundamental shift in the music business model, where touring has become essential not only for promoting albums but also for generating income. In an age when streaming services offer instant access to vast catalogs of music, the live experience has gained heightened importance, serving as a unique and irreplaceable way for artists to engage with their audience and cultivate a dedicated fan base.

Overall, King's quote provides insight into the complex dynamics of the music industry, where the traditional notion of "the show must go on" intersects with the contemporary imperative of touring as a means of sustaining and promoting new music. It underscores the challenges and imperatives that musicians face in navigating the evolving landscape of the music business, where the interplay of artistry, commerce, and audience engagement is central to their success and longevity.

In conclusion, Kerry King's quote encapsulates the paradoxical nature of the music industry, where the imperative to tour and promote new music coexists with the artistic imperative to create and express oneself. It reflects the evolving dynamics of the music business, where the traditional ethos of perseverance collides with the modern reality of touring as a cornerstone of commercial success. This quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the challenges and imperatives facing musicians in today's music landscape.