"This is Manchester, we do things differently here."
About Tony Wilson
Tony Wilson — Life and Legacy
Tony Wilson was a pivotal figure in the British music landscape, best known for founding Factory Records and his role in promoting the Manchester music scene. His distinctive approach to creativity and identity is reflected in his numerous quotes, which often challenge conventional norms. For instance, Wilson stated, 'the only way to deal with the future is to function in the present,' highlighting his belief in the necessity of being present to navigate life's uncertainties. This perspective underscores his commitment to authenticity and self-expression, which he championed throughout his career. Wilson's core thinking revolved around the idea that creativity is not just an artistic endeavor but a fundamental aspect of personal identity. He believed that one's experiences shape their creative output, as seen in his encouragement for individuals to embrace their unique narratives. His quote about the future, 'I think the future is a place we can create,' encapsulates his belief in the power of agency and innovation. By fostering a culture of creativity, Wilson challenged the status quo and inspired many to pursue their passions. Today, Wilson's quotes resonate with those seeking to understand the complexities of identity and creativity. His insights continue to inspire individuals to reflect on their own experiences and the narratives they create, making his work relevant in discussions about personal expression and cultural evolution.
Quote collection
Tony Wilson quotes
15 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"Most of all, I love Manchester. The crumbling warehouses, the railway arches, the cheap abundant drugs. That's what did it in the end. Not the money, not the music, not even the guns. That is my heroic flaw: my excess of civic pride."
"I’ll just say one word: Icarus. If you get it, great. If you don’t, that’s fine too. But you should probably read more."
"When forced to pick between truth and legend, print the legend."
"Jazz is the last refuge of the untalented. Jazz musicians enjoy themselves more than anyone listening to them does."
"That came from my mother. She was the biggest influence on my life. I remember once refusing to get on a bus with her because she was wearing a mink, and I thought we should be taking a taxi. She just said, 'Who cares what people think?' and I remember sitting on that bus, being utterly embarrassed, but knowing somehow that she was totally correct."
"Nothing useless can be truly beautiful."
"If you live in Birmingham, then being awake is not necessarily a desirable state."
"Every band needs it's own special chemistry. And Bez was a very good chemist."
"I'm a minor player in my own life story."
"There is no celebrity quite as powerful as the local, homegrown celebrity."
"Energy, energy? Energy is, is, it's nothing more than a lot of new age hokum masquerading as religion."
"I am not a piece of hash. I'm in charge of Factory Records. I think."
"The special relationship between the region and a regional celebrity means that people feel that they have a special investment in you."
"I've been a minor celebrity since I was 23 years old."