I think people, just because of digital recording and how computers have become such an important part of our lives, I think the means to record music now is in more people's hands. It's a lot cheaper than it used to be.

In this quote, Lou Barlow discusses the democratizing effect that digital recording and computers have had on the music industry. He highlights how the accessibility and affordability of digital technology have made it possible for more people to create and record music. Unlike in the past, when professional-grade recording equipment was expensive and out of reach for most individuals, the tools for producing music are now more readily available to the general public.

Barlow points out that computers have played a key role in this shift, making it easier and more cost-effective for aspiring musicians to record their work at home. With the rise of digital recording software and affordable hardware, people no longer need to rely on expensive studios or specialized equipment. This accessibility has significantly lowered the barriers to entry for music production, allowing a broader range of voices to be heard in the industry.

The quote also touches on the impact of this affordability on the creative process. Since the costs associated with recording have decreased, musicians can experiment more freely and produce music without the financial pressures that once existed. This shift has led to an explosion of independent music and a more diverse range of genres, as creators can now produce and share their music with a global audience.

Ultimately, Barlow’s statement emphasizes the profound changes in the music industry brought about by digital technology, particularly computers and digital recording. The availability of these tools has empowered a new generation of musicians to create, record, and distribute their work, democratizing the music-making process and making it more inclusive than ever before.