Art Quote by Ron Mael
“So much respect is given to artists who are doing things that seems sort of timeless and legitimate. That kind of legitimacy and timelessness is to me sort of the opposite of what pop music should be.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Rolling Stone, 1995
The quote contrasts enduring artistic legitimacy with the fleeting nature of pop music, suggesting pop should avoid timelessness.
In simple terms: Pop should stay fresh, not become timeless art.
Embrace change, avoid over‑legitimizing pop.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- Music criticism
- radio programming
- artist branding
- genre evolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Should pop aim for lasting impact or stay momentary?
- How does legitimacy affect artistic freedom?
Pop’s appeal lies in its ephemerality, which can be lost if it strives for permanence.