"I'm not going to do the Ben Harper house record or the Ben Harper drum 'n' bass record"
About this Quote
In this quote, Ben Harper, an acclaimed artist known for his diverse blend of blues, rock, folk, and reggae, is revealing his hesitation to confine himself to specific music categories that might not line up with his artistic vision. Harper's statement underscores his dedication to credibility and artistic stability instead of complying with patterns or drifting into genres that might not genuinely resonate with his musical identity.
By referencing categories like "house" and "drum 'n' bass", Harper highlights music styles that are clearly various from his recognized noise. House music, with its electronic beats and focus on danceability, and drum 'n' bass, understood for its fast breakbeats and heavy basslines, represent distinct musical directions far from the organic, instrumentally rich blend for which Harper is recognized. His option to particularly mention these categories may indicate a commentary on the pressures or expectations artists face to diversify excessively or commercialize their noise in pursuit of wider appeal or modern importance.
Harper's quote can be interpreted as a statement of his desire to remain real to his roots and the core elements of his distinct sound, which he has actually cultivated over his profession. It's not a lot a termination of these genres as illegitimate forms of music, however rather an individual assertion that they do not fit into his artistic story or personal expression. In addition, this reflects a more comprehensive style within the music market, where artists come to grips with the balance between experimentation and remaining faithful to their original style and their audience's expectations.
Additionally, Harper's quote can be viewed as a broader metaphor for withstanding the pressure to alter or dilute one's essence for the sake of conformity or appeal. It champs the concept of individualism and the value of remaining genuine to one's innovative instincts, even in a market that frequently values marketable assimilation over originality.
