I didn't want there to be a computer on stage. When I see people with computers on stage, I think, 'Are you sending e-mail?' That's so corny.

The quote, "I didn't want there to be a computer on stage. When I see people with computers on stage, I think, 'Are you sending e-mail?' That's so corny," comes from Pat Metheny, a renowned American jazz guitarist and composer. In this statement, Metheny expresses his reluctance to incorporate computers into his live performances. He associates the presence of technology on stage with a sense of impersonality and disconnection from the art of performance, particularly in a live music setting. Metheny seems to suggest that using computers on stage, especially for things like sending emails or handling technical tasks, detracts from the authenticity of the performance.

The origin of this quote reflects Metheny's personal views on the relationship between technology and art. While he is a musician who has embraced technological innovation in his music, particularly in his work with electronic instruments, Metheny draws a line when it comes to technology's role in live performances. To him, the presence of computers on stage during a performance introduces a level of artificiality that he finds unappealing. He associates this with the idea that a performance should feel genuine and immersive, rather than distracted by digital devices or external technology.

In a broader sense, the quote reflects a cultural and artistic debate about the role of technology in creative expression. Some artists, like Metheny, value the human connection and emotional energy that comes from live performances, while others embrace technology as an essential tool to enhance their art. Metheny’s comment about people using computers to check email during a show highlights his frustration with how technology can sometimes undermine the essence of a live performance, making it feel less spontaneous and more mechanical.

Ultimately, Metheny’s quote is a commentary on the balance between innovation and tradition in the creative arts. While technology can enhance musical production and creativity, he advocates for a performance experience that remains rooted in human interaction and emotional connection, without the distraction of unnecessary technology.