Meaning: This quote by Leo Kottke, a renowned musician known for his innovative fingerpicking style on the acoustic guitar, offers insight into his perspective on the music industry and his unique place within it. In this quote, Kottke expresses a sense of detachment from the traditional ebbs and flows of the industry, attributing it to his unconventional approach and relentless dedication to performing.

Kottke's statement, "I'm not subject to their rise and fall because I'm not accepted by them, so I have my own little curve going on," reflects his belief that he operates outside the mainstream music industry's trends and fluctuations. He implies that his music career exists on a separate trajectory, one that is not contingent on the acceptance or validation of the industry at large. This independence from the industry's sway allows Kottke to maintain a unique artistic path, unencumbered by the pressures and expectations that often accompany commercial success.

The phrase "A lot of it is because of how much I play, I think I connect like when all you had was Vaudeville, I think I have an audience by performing a lot!" sheds light on Kottke's work ethic and his belief in the power of live performance to forge genuine connections with his audience. By drawing a parallel to the era of Vaudeville, a form of variety entertainment that thrived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Kottke emphasizes the importance of consistent and extensive performance in cultivating a dedicated fan base. He suggests that his relentless touring and live appearances have been instrumental in building a loyal following, harkening back to a time when live entertainment was the primary means of engaging with audiences.

Kottke's assertion that he "connect[s] like when all you had was Vaudeville" underscores his belief in the enduring impact of live performance as a means of artistic expression and audience engagement. In an age where digital platforms and streaming services dominate the music landscape, Kottke's emphasis on the visceral and immediate connection forged through live shows serves as a reminder of the timeless power of in-person musical experiences.

Furthermore, Kottke's reference to having "an audience by performing a lot" highlights the symbiotic relationship between artist and audience. By consistently sharing his music through live performances, Kottke has cultivated a dedicated fan base that appreciates his commitment to the craft and his willingness to engage with them directly. This approach not only sets Kottke apart from conventional industry norms but also reinforces the value he places on the communal experience of music, where the artist and the audience coalesce in a shared moment of artistic expression.

In conclusion, Leo Kottke's quote encapsulates his distinctive perspective on the music industry, emphasizing his autonomy from its commercial fluctuations and his unwavering commitment to live performance as a means of connecting with his audience. By embracing a path that diverges from traditional industry trajectories and prioritizing the intimate connection fostered through extensive live engagements, Kottke exemplifies an artist who remains true to his craft and dedicated to forging genuine connections with his listeners.