In essence, the speaker is conveying that during a period when their work was less visible or acknowledged by others—specifically three years—the individual produced an exceptionally large volume of music compared to any other time in their career. This statement suggests a prolific and intense creative phase.
Exploring beyond the surface, this quote encapsulates the idea that creativity can flourish independently of external validation. The period described is not marked by public recognition or attention; rather, it's characterized by a deep dive into personal expression and artistic experimentation. It also hints at how artists might find their most productive periods when they are free from the pressure to meet expectations set by others or commercial demands. This phase allows for an uninhibited exploration of one’s creativity, leading to an abundance of work that may surpass what is typically produced under more public scrutiny.
Ryan Adams, the artist who made this observation, is known for his prolific output across various musical genres and a career spanning several decades. His candid reflection on his creative process sheds light on the internal nature of artistic creation and how periods of relative obscurity can be incredibly productive.
