Even as a kid, if I would come across something cool in the record store, that would be how I found out about bands. It's kind of the same way these days. In a way even less because there are no record stores to go to anymore.

In this quote, Scott Ian reflects on the way he discovered music and bands during his youth, particularly by browsing record stores. As a child, coming across something "cool" in a record store was his gateway to exploring new artists and genres. He compares that process to how people discover music today, suggesting that while the method of discovery has changed, the excitement and curiosity still remain.

Ian also laments the loss of record stores, which were once a central part of music culture and discovery. He points out that, in a way, finding music today has become even more challenging because such physical spaces no longer exist in the same way. The quote touches on the nostalgia and importance of record stores, where music enthusiasts could explore new releases, ask for recommendations, and discover hidden gems in a tactile and immersive environment.

The origin of this quote comes from Ian's background as the guitarist for the influential metal band Anthrax. As a musician who grew up in the era of vinyl and physical albums, Ian’s experience with record stores was a formative part of his relationship with music. His quote highlights how the way people interact with music has evolved, particularly with the rise of digital platforms and the decline of physical music spaces.

Ultimately, Ian’s words reflect a sense of nostalgia for a time when music discovery felt more personal and hands-on. While the internet and digital platforms have transformed how we access music, Ian's quote serves as a reminder of the unique experience that record stores once offered, where finding new bands and albums was a more physical, serendipitous experience.