That's why I do this music business thing, it's communication with people without having the extreme inconvenience of actually phoning anybody up.

In this quote, Morrissey, the iconic lead singer of The Smiths, humorously reflects on his approach to the music business. He suggests that creating and performing music provides him with a way to communicate with people, but without the need for direct, often uncomfortable, personal interaction, such as phoning others. For Morrissey, music becomes an outlet for self-expression and connection, where he can convey his thoughts, emotions, and ideas to a broad audience without the more personal and intimate form of communication that a phone call requires.

The quote also sheds light on Morrissey’s introverted nature and his preference for distance in human interaction. Despite being a public figure, he expresses that the performance of music allows him to share his messages without the need for direct confrontation or the inconvenience of face-to-face communication. This highlights the power of artistic expression as a bridge between the artist and their audience, enabling deep connection without traditional forms of social engagement.

Morrissey’s comment also speaks to the evolving role of music as a form of communication in the modern world. With the advent of digital platforms, artists can now reach millions of people through recordings and performances, effectively communicating messages to a wide audience without needing to personally engage with each listener. This aligns with the broader theme of how media and technology have transformed communication, making it more accessible but also more distant.

Ultimately, Morrissey’s quote is a playful yet insightful take on the relationship between the artist and the audience. By using music as a form of communication, he navigates the complexities of human connection in a way that allows for emotional expression while avoiding the personal discomfort that may come with more direct, traditional forms of communication like phone calls.