"There may be a new album, and there may not. Right now, we're encouraging bootlegging because there have been some great live things that ended up on the Internet. Rather than try to stop it, we like it. If nobody gave a crap about you, they wouldn't bother to bootleg you"

Burton Cummings reflects on the uncertain future of his musical output with both honesty and humor, indicating that whether a new album materializes remains up in the air. Instead of focusing solely on traditional releases, he shines a light on the dynamic relationship that artists now share with their audience through live recordings and bootlegs. Allowing and even appreciating bootlegged performances acknowledges a shift in the industry, where official releases are no longer the sole way to connect with fans or spread music.

Rather than adopting a combative stance against unauthorized recordings, Cummings embraces the phenomenon as a testament to his music's continued relevance. Bootlegging, often seen as a challenge to artists’ rights, becomes, in his perspective, an unexpected compliment. If listeners go so far as to capture, share, and treasure live shows, it only speaks to their enthusiasm. For Cummings, the very act of bootlegging demonstrates that people invest time and effort to document moments that mean something to them. This engagement serves as proof of a devoted audience, further encouraging the artist to value these unofficial tributes.

The statement hints at the transformation of the music industry, particularly in a digital era where performances are archived and circulated far beyond the physical concert venue. Cummings recognizes that efforts to combat this trend are largely futile, and prefers to see the positives instead. The eagerness of fans to spread live material becomes a badge of honor, a reassurance that the music is still alive, relevant, and cherished.

Ultimately, Cummings expresses gratitude toward his fans, perceiving their actions as evidence of sustained interest and passion. By leaning into the bootlegging culture, he fosters a deeper connection between artist and follower, blurring the lines between official and unofficial, while highlighting the communal aspect of music appreciation.