You've got your passion. You've got your pride. But don't you know that only fools are satisfied? Dream on, but don't imagine they'll all come true.
Billy JoelRead
Videos destroyed the vitality of rock and roll. Before that, music said, "Listen to me." Now it says, "Look at me."
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on how music's focus has shifted from being an auditory experience to a visual one due to the influence of videos.
Billy Joel's quote highlights a significant change in the music industry, suggesting that the emergence of music videos has altered the way audiences engage with music. Originally, music commanded attention through its sound and emotional depth, encouraging listeners to focus on the auditory experience. However, the rise of video content has shifted this dynamic, prompting music to prioritize visual appeal over musical integrity, which could detract from the essence of the art form.
Themes
MusicVideosRock And RollVisualAuditory
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech about the evolution of art, this quote can be used to emphasize the impact of technology on perception.
More from Billy Joel
All quotes βWell I never had a place that I could call my very own/That's all right, my love, 'cause you're my home.
Billy JoelRead
If it seems like I've been lost in 'lets remember', If it seems I'm gettin' older and missin' my younger days, well you shoulda known me much better, cause the past is something that never got in my way.
Billy JoelRead
I consider myself to be an inept pianist, a bad singer, and a merely competent songwriter. ... I'm probably writing music now for the same reason as I started writing songs when I was 14-to meet women. ... If you make music for the human needs you have within yourself, then you do it for all humans who need the same things. You enrich humanity with the profound expression of these feelings. ... My songs are like my kids.
Billy JoelRead
No matter what culture you're from, everyone loves music.
Billy JoelRead
Sweetness flows from your appearance and your beauty makes me fall more in love with you. Anytime I feel low, I think about the good times you have given me and everything seems good again.
Billy JoelRead
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