In this quote, T Bone Burnett expresses his preference for listening to music at a high volume level as part of his creative process and learning experience. He suggests that playing back recordings loudly can reveal details and nuances that might be missed when listened to softly.
The deeper meaning behind Burnett's statement is the idea that how we perceive and interact with sound, particularly in the context of music production, significantly influences our understanding and appreciation of it. Listening at high volumes can enhance one’s ability to detect subtleties such as dynamic range, frequency response, and overall quality. This practice also underscores the importance of experiencing music in its intended format, often meant for loud playback, which brings out the full spectrum of sound and emotion embedded within a recording.
T Bone Burnett is an acclaimed American musician, record producer, film scorer, and music industry figure known for his work with numerous artists and his contributions to soundtrack compositions. His insights into music production and performance reflect his deep understanding and passion for creating and experiencing rich, vibrant musical experiences.