My last job I had for about a decade and I drove 55-60,000 miles a year which caused me to stop listening to music.
Now I don't have a working radio in either of my K5's. Hell, I don't even listen to music at the gym when I am lifting.
I got used to listening to other things. Whether it be the engine, the open road, or just my thoughts.
I sure like some good music but even now in the garage I don't listen to it. I dunno, it stopped motivating me. Nowadays I can fall asleep listening to heavy metal or anything else.
It is weird but I enjoy it. On the plus side, it also gives me time to figure stuff out, make plans, and to keep in touch with family.
As far as the gym goes, I figure that in real life I won't have a soundtrack when I really need my muscle so why become dependent on something to pump me up. I know this isn't the norm as I get a lot of strange looks at the gym because I have no headphones. But I enjoy it.
That all being said, your build and your vision is awesome. You are right in that not everyone can agree on what you are doing would work for them or please them, but screw it. Do what you like, love what you do, work harder than the rest, and forget the haters.
Keep up the good work.