I like to focus on making the music sound simple and true, and very lush and full. I think music should take you to somewhere else where you have the space to contemplate or exercise your imagination. All the while you should be feeling real good, like when you have a delicious and decadent meal, macaroni and cheese or foie gras.

In this quote, Alice Smith discusses her approach to music, emphasizing that it should sound both simple and true while also being rich and lush. She believes that music should not just be a technical composition, but an experience that transports listeners to another place, offering them the space to contemplate and engage their imagination. For Smith, music is about creating an environment where the listener can be fully immersed in the sound, allowing them to escape from everyday life and experience something deeper.

Smith compares the experience of listening to music to the feeling of enjoying a decadent meal, such as macaroni and cheese or foie gras. These foods are comforting, indulgent, and rich—qualities she wants to infuse into her music. The comparison highlights the idea that music, like a good meal, should be satisfying and emotionally fulfilling, providing not just nourishment but pleasure. It’s about creating a sensory experience that makes you feel good and engaged, something that offers both a sense of joy and luxury.

The origin of the quote stems from Smith's artistic philosophy as a musician. Known for blending genres like soul, R&B, and pop, Smith has always focused on creating music that resonates deeply with listeners. Her desire to make music that is accessible, yet emotionally rich, reflects her commitment to creating an experience that is both profound and enjoyable. By using simple yet lush arrangements, she aims to create something that is universally relatable while also offering space for personal reflection.

Ultimately, Smith’s quote emphasizes that music should be a holistic experience—one that stimulates the mind and the senses. By drawing on the analogy of a delicious meal, she underlines the idea that music should not only be intellectually engaging but also emotionally satisfying, like an indulgence that leaves you feeling nourished and content. Music, for Smith, is about creating a balance of simplicity, richness, and emotional connection.