Meaning: This quote by Terry Riley, an influential composer and musician associated with the minimalist school of music, reflects a pivotal moment in his career when he made the decision to step away from the mainstream music industry and embark on a journey to India. The quote alludes to his prior success with the album "Rainbow in Curved Air" and his record deal with CBS, highlighting the promising trajectory of his career at that time. However, the decision to leave it all behind and pursue a spiritual and musical exploration in India marked a significant departure from the conventional path that many artists aspire to follow.

Terry Riley's "Rainbow in Curved Air" is a seminal work that played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of contemporary classical and electronic music. Released in 1969, the album showcased Riley's innovative use of electronic instruments, repetitive patterns, and improvisational techniques, establishing him as a pioneering figure in the realm of experimental music. The album's groundbreaking nature and critical acclaim positioned Riley as a leading figure in the avant-garde music scene of the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Riley's reference to being "launched to have a long career" alludes to the potential for sustained success and recognition that he had achieved through his early works. The album's success on CBS and the subsequent opportunities that emerged from it set the stage for Riley to potentially establish himself as a prominent and enduring figure within the music industry. However, the decision to abruptly "drop out" and depart for India reflects a profound shift in priorities and aspirations for the artist.

Riley's choice to journey to India is indicative of his desire to seek inspiration, spiritual growth, and new musical influences outside the confines of the Western music industry. India has long been a magnet for artists and musicians seeking to immerse themselves in its rich cultural and spiritual traditions, drawing from its diverse musical heritage and philosophical teachings. For Riley, this sojourn represented a conscious departure from the commercial pressures and expectations of the music business, allowing him the freedom to explore new artistic avenues and personal philosophies.

In the context of the 1960s and 1970s, many artists and musicians were drawn to Eastern spirituality and philosophy, finding solace and creative renewal in the teachings of Eastern gurus and the contemplative practices of meditation and mindfulness. This cultural phenomenon, often referred to as the "hippie trail," saw numerous Westerners, including prominent figures from the music industry, making pilgrimages to India and other Asian countries in search of enlightenment, artistic inspiration, and a deeper understanding of themselves.

Riley's time in India profoundly influenced his musical compositions and philosophical outlook. His exposure to Indian classical music, the teachings of spiritual masters, and the contemplative atmosphere of the country left an indelible mark on his creative sensibilities. Upon his return to the United States, Riley's music underwent a transformation, incorporating elements of Indian classical music, modal improvisation, and a meditative quality that reflected his experiences in India.

Ultimately, Terry Riley's decision to "drop out and go to India" represents a pivotal moment in his artistic journey, demonstrating a willingness to prioritize personal growth and creative exploration over the trappings of commercial success. His experiences in India not only enriched his musical vocabulary but also contributed to the broader cultural exchange between Eastern and Western artistic traditions, leaving a lasting impact on the evolution of contemporary music.

In conclusion, Terry Riley's quote encapsulates a transformative period in his career, marked by the juxtaposition of early commercial success and the subsequent pursuit of artistic and spiritual fulfillment through a journey to India. This pivotal decision not only reshaped Riley's creative trajectory but also underscored the enduring influence of cross-cultural dialogue and spiritual exploration on the evolution of contemporary music.