Sublime

So do you feel that way about your songs, that they need protecting or defending once they are released? No, not so much, because a song is sent into the world and, if you’re lucky, it is absorbed into the bloodstream of the world. The audience takes stewardship of the song. The song becomes their property. I don’t see myself as the protector of my

to express who we are. Who we are and where we are on our journey.

“Mr. Derrick, I met this old man a few months ago. Named Mr. Theo. He’s from Portugal. And he gave me a portrait that an artist had done of me. And I learned something from Mr. Theo. God gave us faces so we can see each other better. I used to not look at people’s faces so much. But I’m learning. Just like I’m looking at you right now. Mr. Derrick,

This is the essence of great art. We make it for no other purpose than creating our version of the beautiful, bringing all of ourself to every project, whatever its parameters and constraints. Consider it an offering, a devotional act. We do the best, as we see the best—with our own taste. No one else’s.

Artists who are able to continually create great works throughout their lives often manage to preserve these childlike qualities. Practicing a way of being that allows you to see the world through uncorrupted, innocent eyes can free you to act in concert with the universe’s timetable.

Respect his expertise and experience, but understand that you have something he doesn’t—amazing music.

Matt, who was given an impossible task. Replace Tom DeLonge in his own band, which has been around for twenty years. Make it your own. But not too different. Yours, but still ours. But not too much. But more. And better. Cool? You got this.