Meaning: The quote provides insight into the mindset of Ian MacKaye, a renowned musician known for his involvement in the punk rock scene, and his approach to creating and sharing music. The statement reflects a strong sense of independence and a rejection of the traditional music industry model, particularly major record labels. Ian MacKaye's ethos is deeply rooted in the DIY (do it yourself) ethic, which emphasizes self-reliance, autonomy, and a commitment to creating and distributing art outside of mainstream commercial channels.

Ian MacKaye's words convey a sense of empowerment through self-expression and self-determination. By creating their own label, he and his fellow musicians took control of their artistic output, refusing to be bound by the constraints and expectations of major record labels. This allowed them to document their music on their own terms and build a platform to share it with others who resonated with their unique vision and sound.

The quote also highlights a strong aversion to the influence and control of major record labels. By stating that they were "just always out of our picture" and expressing disinterest in their involvement, MacKaye emphasizes a deliberate distancing from the commercial pressures and compromises often associated with signing to a major label. Instead, his focus remains on the genuine creation and representation of their music, free from external interference.

Ian MacKaye's stance reflects a broader DIY ethos that emerged within the punk and independent music scenes. This ethos is characterized by a rejection of mainstream commercialism, a commitment to grassroots organizing, and a dedication to creating alternative, inclusive spaces for artistic expression. By establishing their own label, MacKaye and his peers aligned themselves with a tradition of self-reliance and autonomy that has been central to the development of independent music cultures.

In addition to the rejection of major labels, MacKaye's statement also underscores a desire to "create our own thing." This sentiment encapsulates a spirit of innovation and self-expression, as well as a commitment to building a community around their music. By "our own thing," MacKaye likely refers to a holistic approach to artistic production, encompassing not only the music itself but also the visual and conceptual elements that contribute to the overall experience of their work.

Overall, Ian MacKaye's quote encapsulates a philosophy that prioritizes artistic integrity, independence, and creative autonomy. It reflects a determination to forge a path outside of traditional industry structures, while also fostering a sense of community and connection with audiences who share their values. Through their DIY approach, MacKaye and his contemporaries have left a lasting impact on the music landscape, inspiring countless artists to follow their own path and assert their creative agency.