Meaning: Leo Kottke, an American acoustic guitarist known for his fingerpicking style, made this statement, "I have always thought of myself as a performer first and way down the line as a recording artist." This quote reflects Kottke's primary identity as a live performer and his secondary role as a recording artist. It sheds light on his perspective regarding his career in the music industry.

Kottke's emphasis on being a performer first highlights his passion for live music and the connection he feels with his audience during performances. This sentiment suggests that Kottke derives great satisfaction and fulfillment from the act of playing music in front of a live audience. It also indicates that he may prioritize the experience of performing and engaging with his fans over the process of recording music in a studio setting. As a performer, Kottke likely values the energy, spontaneity, and immediate feedback that come with live shows, which may hold greater significance to him than the controlled environment of a recording studio.

Furthermore, Kottke's position as a recording artist being "way down the line" in his self-perception suggests that while he acknowledges the importance of creating recorded music, he may view it as a secondary aspect of his musical identity. This viewpoint could stem from the fact that Kottke's career has been heavily centered around live performances, with his virtuosic guitar playing captivating audiences in concert settings. While Kottke has released numerous albums throughout his career, his statement implies that he sees himself primarily as a live performer rather than a musician whose primary focus is on producing studio recordings.

In the context of the music industry, Kottke's perspective as a performer first and a recording artist second offers insight into the different facets of a musician's career. It highlights the distinction between the live performance aspect of a musician's work and the process of creating recorded music. For Kottke, the thrill of performing live and connecting with audiences may hold greater significance than the meticulous process of recording and producing albums. This perspective may also reflect Kottke's belief in the transformative power of live music, where the dynamic interaction between performer and audience creates a unique and ephemeral experience that cannot be fully replicated in a studio recording.

It's worth noting that Kottke's quote aligns with the traditions of folk and acoustic music, where live performance has historically played a central role. The intimacy and authenticity of live performances are often highly valued in these genres, and Kottke's emphasis on being a performer first may be influenced by these musical traditions.

In conclusion, Leo Kottke's statement underscores his identity as a live performer who places great importance on the experience of playing music in front of an audience. It provides valuable insight into his perspective on the roles of performer and recording artist within the music industry, highlighting the significance of live performance in shaping his musical identity. Kottke's quote offers a compelling glimpse into the mindset of a musician who sees the act of performing as a fundamental aspect of his artistic expression.