Meaning of "Mainstream" by Kansas

"Mainstream" delves deep into the idea of art versus commercialization, highlighting the struggle artists face in maintaining their integrity while trying to survive in an industry driven by profit. The song laments the pressure to conform to mainstream norms in order to achieve success, criticizing the focus on numbers and sales rather than originality and innovation. The lyrics suggest that many artists feel forced to produce music that fits the mold of popular trends, sacrificing authenticity in the process. The repetition of "survive another year" emphasizes the relentless cycle of churning out commercialized music to stay afloat in a cutthroat industry. Overall, the song serves as a poignant commentary on the compromises artists must make when faced with the demands of the mainstream music market.