Art Quote by Todd Rundgren
“Artists should re-emphasize performance and de-emphasize recording. You always make more money if you have a healthy performing life than you will if you have even a moderately healthy recording life. Don't make recording the most important thing you do. Make performing the most important thing you do, and then you can make recordings and sell them at your shows, because record labels aren't going to be around to help you get on the radio stations, and the radio stations probably aren't going to play you anyway.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Music Business Talk, 2015
Prioritizing live performance over studio recording can be more financially sustainable for musicians as live shows generate direct revenue and fan engagement.
In simple terms: Focus on performing live to earn more and stay relevant.
Key Takeaway
Invest in live shows first.
Themes
music industry
career strategy
live performance
recording
revenue streams
Mood
pragmatic
inspirational
Type
advice
strategic
When to use this quote
- tour planning
- concert promotion
- merchandise sales
- direct-to-fan marketing
- live streaming
Key Concepts
artist development
fan connection
digital distribution
industry change
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance performance and recording?
- What revenue can live shows provide?
A Different Perspective
Recording still matters for legacy and artistic expression, but may not be primary income.
