Different Quote by Nellie McKay
“I was in school for jazz voice, which is the dumbest way to spend $35,000 a year. I just felt like a rip-off of good jazz singers. I didn't feel like I was being anything special, and I always wanted to be special. It's like you know you have something inside you that's gonna make you different than everybody else and make you somebody in this life, but you wish you could figure out what it is, because at most things, you're either mediocre or really, really bad.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Podcast "The Music Makers", 2019
The speaker feels their expensive jazz voice education was wasteful and unfulfilling, yearning for a unique talent that distinguishes them from mediocrity or failure.
In simple terms: Expensive training felt pointless; seeking a special talent.
Key Takeaway
Identify and nurture your unique strength.
Themes
self‑doubt
education
artistic identity
Mood
frustrated
reflective
Type
personal
motivational
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- artistic development
- financial planning
- personal growth
Key Concepts
self‑actualization
value of education
creative authenticity
Questions to Reflect On
- What unique skill can you develop outside traditional paths?
- How can you assess the true value of an investment?
A Different Perspective
Talent may not be discovered through formal schooling alone.
