There used to be a band where I lived, Knee Deep Shag, that were local Gods, if you will. People flocked to them because they were pure and didn't give a shit about airplay or selling records. However, as the group began to gain a larger following, the music began to change. Somebody saw an opportunity to make a buck off these guys and their sound completely changed. They went from a funk/soul/rock band to a straight up pop group. Funny thing about pop songs is they are usually devoid of any substance or staying power. There just isn't any depth, and in KDS's case, people began to see through them and realize that they were in it to make it, not to play what they loved to play.

Some of my friends say that Phish has sold out in a way, and I tend to argue that with great ferocity. They point to how their albums seem to have gotten a little more simple from the technical standpoint, ala Junta/Rift. However, I see an evolution and an organic growth. I see a development in the technical and exploration. I see a band taking chances and not being afraid of being burned. What I don't see is a band trying to get on the radio. I see a band trying to be a band, make music that they want to make and to attract fans not by airplay, but by their play. I should coin that phrase... anyway, I'm digressing from the point. If you play what you want to play and people listen, in my opinion, you've made it. If you play what you're expected or told to play, you're made.