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Artists aren't necessarily business people. And they aren't necessarily aware of all the things that go on in their names. Some just want to make some music, but there is a lot of greed among artists as well. Whether or not we know it, we are all to blame. I think it's time - starting with the artist - to try to be a little more responsible and aware of what goes on in our name.

Tom Petty#11

ArtAwarenessBusinessEthicsGreed

About this quote

What does it mean?
Petty notes artists often lack business awareness but still bear responsibility for greed in their names. He calls for more awareness.
In plain terms
Artists need to be aware of business dealings in their name.
What can you take from it?
Artists should be mindful of business practices.

Where it applies

  • contract negotiations
  • career management
  • industry ethics

Putting it to work

  • educate yourself on contracts
  • audit business partners

Questions to consider

  • How much business should an artist know?
  • Where does blame lie?

Another view

Not all artists want to handle business affairs.

More from Tom Petty

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  3. I don't believe in censorship, but I do believe that an artist has to take some moral responsibility for what he or she is putting out there. And I think a lot…

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