Graves Quote by Tom Bailey
“Twelve years ago me and Allanah became really sick of writing pop songs, ... Eventually we dug a grave for the Thompson Twins, pushed them in there, and then moved to New Zealand. Before that I'd lived for a long time in south London where reggae was the music of the streets around me. You'd hear it booming out of people's windows and shops, and you could buy great old reggae singles for 50p (NZ1.30) in second hand shops. I'd always loved that sound, so soon after we got here I started making electronic dub records with my mate Rakai Karaitiana as International Observer.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Podcast with Tom Bailey, 2022
He reflects on abandoning mainstream pop, embracing reggae and dub influences, and relocating to New Zealand for creative freedom.
In simple terms: He left pop, loved reggae, moved to NZ, made dub music.
Key Takeaway
Seek new environments to revitalize creativity.
Themes
creativity
musical evolution
geographic change
genre fusion
Mood
reflective
nostalgic
Type
personal narrative
musical memoir
When to use this quote
- songwriting
- music production
- relocation
- cultural exploration
Key Concepts
cultural immersion
artistic reinvention
personal renewal
Questions to Reflect On
- How does environment shape artistic direction?
- What risks are worth taking for creative growth?
A Different Perspective
Success depends on audience reception and market viability.
