I wouldn't be where I am without my fans, and I am very thankful

Hear the words of Kygo, the minstrel of modern song, who declares with sincerity: “I wouldn’t be where I am without my fans, and I am very thankful for them.” In these words we hear more than the gratitude of an artist to his listeners; we hear a timeless truth about the interwoven fabric of human achievement—that no man rises alone, and that greatness is always carried by the support of others.

The first jewel in his saying is the recognition of dependence. In a world that worships self-made heroes, Kygo admits that his journey was not traveled in solitude. His music found wings not merely because of his talent, but because thousands chose to listen, to share, to believe in him. This humility echoes the wisdom of the ancients: that the warrior’s victory is not his alone, but belongs also to the smith who forged his sword, the soldier who marched beside him, the people who gave him cause to fight.

The second flame is his thankfulness. He does not take the love of his fans for granted, nor does he see it as entitlement. He is grateful, for he knows that applause could have been withheld, and loyalty could have been denied. Gratitude transforms success into a shared triumph rather than a solitary prize. It preserves the heart from arrogance and fills it with reverence for those who lifted him.

The third truth in his words is the sacred bond between artist and audience, between leader and follower, between creator and community. Just as the poet of old required listeners to pass his verses down through memory, just as the philosopher required students to spread his teaching, so too does the modern artist require those who will receive his gift. Kygo’s fans are not passive observers but co-authors of his success, giving life and meaning to his art by welcoming it into their own lives.

History offers us a mirror in the tale of Alexander Hamilton, who rose from obscurity in the West Indies to shape the foundation of a nation. Though brilliant, he could not have advanced without the patronage of those who believed in him, nor without the readers who embraced his writings. His achievements were magnified by the support of others, just as Kygo’s music is amplified by the loyalty of his listeners. Both stories teach us that greatness flourishes when it is carried on the shoulders of community.

The fourth jewel is the reminder that thankfulness strengthens bonds. By speaking gratitude, Kygo deepens the trust of his supporters and honors the relationship that sustains his art. In this we see a lesson for all: leaders, artists, parents, and teachers must give thanks to those who follow, for without acknowledgment, loyalty fades. Gratitude is not only a virtue; it is a power that multiplies blessings.

The lesson for us is clear: do not imagine that your achievements are yours alone. Be thankful for those who believed in you, who supported you, who gave you opportunity when you had none. Speak that gratitude often, and let it shape your character. For when you honor those who lifted you, you both preserve your humility and inspire others to continue standing with you.

Practically, take time to name the “fans” in your own life—family, friends, mentors, colleagues—those whose encouragement and belief sustain your journey. Express your thankfulness to them, whether through words, deeds, or the simple act of remembrance. In doing so, you will cultivate bonds of loyalty, humility, and strength, and you will live out the wisdom of Kygo’s words: “I wouldn’t be where I am without them.”

Thus his statement becomes not only the gratitude of an artist but a teaching for all generations: we rise together, and we must be thankful together. For it is in gratitude that success is sanctified, and in humility that legacy endures.