If you are a superstar, or whatever you want to call yourself, a person who's had outrageous success, and you decide to go indie and tell the record companies to screw themselves? That takes a certain amount of courage. And bullheadedness, really.

Daryl Hall's quote speaks to the courage required for individuals who have achieved significant success in their careers to make bold decisions that defy conventional expectations. Specifically, he refers to the act of a superstar—someone who has reached the height of fame and fortune—choosing to go indie (independent) and take control of their career by rejecting the influence of traditional record companies. This decision requires both courage and a certain level of stubbornness or bullheadedness, as it involves stepping away from established systems of power and risking the comfort and security that comes with mainstream success.

Hall emphasizes that breaking away from the record companies—which have historically played a dominant role in shaping an artist’s career—demands not only bravery but also a willingness to face the challenges and unpredictability that come with going independent. By choosing this path, artists are taking control of their own destiny, but they are also choosing to face a more uncertain future without the support or guidance of the major players in the industry. This type of decision is marked by a blend of courage and resolve, as it requires a strong belief in one's abilities and the willingness to stand firm in the face of potential setbacks.

Daryl Hall, an influential musician and half of the popular duo Hall & Oates, understands the music industry and the pressures artists face within it. Having achieved massive success, Hall is familiar with the dynamics of the mainstream music industry and the challenges involved in breaking away from it. His statement reflects his own experiences and observations of how artists who take such risks often embody a blend of courage and stubbornness that makes them stand out in an industry driven by corporate interests.

Ultimately, Hall's quote highlights the strength of character needed to pursue one’s own artistic vision, even when it means going against the grain and challenging the established systems that brought success. It serves as a reminder that courage and independence often require the willingness to face uncertainty and defy conventional paths, qualities that many successful artists demonstrate when they take control of their careers.