I like to watch the news, because I don't like people very much and when you watch the news... if you ever had an idea that people were really terrible, you could watch the news and know that you're right.
Frank ZappaRead
Most people wouldn't know music if it came up and bit them on the ass.
Interpretation
The quote critiques people's lack of understanding and appreciation of music.
Frank Zappa's statement highlights the idea that many individuals are unaware of the depth and nuances of music, suggesting that they do not recognize its significance or value in their lives. He implies that music, which is often taken for granted, deserves a more attentive and profound appreciation from people, rather than a cursory or superficial engagement.
In practice
In a discussion about the importance of music education, this quote could emphasize the need for deeper engagement with the art form.
I like to watch the news, because I don't like people very much and when you watch the news... if you ever had an idea that people were really terrible, you could watch the news and know that you're right.
The richest people in the world aren't particularly smart or happy. And the happiest people in the world aren't particularly smart or rich.β¦ That leaves me making music. But we can't talk about that.
Bad facts make bad law, and people who write bad laws are in my opinion more dangerous than songwriters who celebrate sexuality. Freedom of speech, freedom of religious thought, and the right to due process for composers, performers and retailers are imperiled if the PMRC and the major labels consummate this nasty bargain.
Don't mind your make-up, you'd better make your mind up.
Music is always a commentary on society.
I'm more interested in melodic things. I think the biggest challenge when you go to play a solo is trying to invent a melody on the spot.
A poet is a professional maker of verbal objects.
As far as I am concerned the paint is the person. I want it to work for me just as flesh does
Life is short and art is long.
A recurring ideal, I find, is that of simplicity. At times there comes the desire to write with great precision and clarity, words so simple and moving that they bring tears to the eyes.
The creative musician ... is ... the radio receiver, not the broadcasting station. His personal discipline is to improve the quality of the components, the transistors, the speakers, the alloys in the receiver itself, but never to concern himself overmuch with putting out the program. The program is there; all he has to do is receive it as far as possible.
There aren't that many things left that haven't already been done, especially with music. I'm interested in ideas that can shake us all up.
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