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For the longest time, I didn't know the name of anyone in Led Zeppelin. I didn't care about what they looked like or ate. I wanted to listen, not read about them. I've always had that philosophy. I never started playing drums to get chicks or money or anything else. Long before I had concepts of those things, I wanted to be a drummer. That's the basic concept of what I do. I'm a drummer. I play drums. We are artists as drummers, and people should realize that. Not everyone can sit down and use all four of your limbs simultaneously to create something out of wood and plastic. We're creating something beautiful, and it may not sound pretty, but if you listen with the right ear, it sounds very pretty. If you try and listen to a song without drums, you haven't got anything.

John Dolmayan#1

ArtArtistryIntegrityMotivationMusicPractice

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About this quote

What does it mean?
The author prioritizes the direct experience of music over external details about the artists. He emphasizes the skill and artistry involved in drumming, asserting its necessity in music.
In plain terms
He values listening to music and playing drums for the craft itself, not for fame or external validation.
What can you take from it?
Focus on the art and skill of your craft rather than external rewards.

Where it applies

  • learning an instrument
  • appreciating music
  • professional identity

Putting it to work

  • Practice your craft sincerely
  • Ignore superficial distractions
  • Value artistic contribution

Questions to consider

  • What motivates your practice?
  • How do you define artistic value?

Another view

Not all music requires complex drumming to be complete or enjoyable.

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