Meaning: The quote "Then as I got older, I always gravitated towards the hard stuff, Born To Be Wild, then Black Sabbath" by Jello Biafra, a musician, reflects his musical journey and evolution as an artist. Jello Biafra is best known as the lead singer and songwriter for the punk rock band Dead Kennedys. His words convey a significant shift in his musical preferences and the influences that shaped his artistic expression.

In this quote, Biafra acknowledges how his musical taste evolved as he grew older. He mentions "Born To Be Wild," a song by the band Steppenwolf, and "Black Sabbath," a pioneering heavy metal band, as examples of the "hard stuff" that he gravitated towards. This statement provides insight into the trajectory of his musical development and the genres that resonated with him as he matured.

Biafra's reference to "Born To Be Wild" suggests an affinity for the rebellious and free-spirited nature of rock music. The song, released in 1968, became an anthem for the counterculture movement of the era, with its powerful riff and lyrics celebrating the freedom of the open road. This early exposure to rebellious and energetic rock music likely left a lasting impression on Biafra and influenced his own approach to creating music with a similar spirit of defiance and nonconformity.

Furthermore, Biafra's mention of Black Sabbath, a band synonymous with the birth of heavy metal, indicates a shift towards darker and heavier sounds in his musical journey. Black Sabbath's music is characterized by its ominous and heavy riffs, along with its introspective and often macabre lyrics. By expressing his gravitation towards Black Sabbath, Biafra reveals a turning point in his musical exploration, embracing the raw power and intensity of heavy metal as an essential part of his artistic development.

Overall, Biafra's quote underscores the significance of musical evolution and the impact of different genres on an artist's creative journey. It also sheds light on the diverse influences that contribute to shaping an artist's identity and output. From the rebellious spirit of rock to the dark intensity of heavy metal, Biafra's musical trajectory reflects a dynamic and multifaceted engagement with various genres, ultimately influencing his own musical contributions.

In conclusion, Jello Biafra's quote captures a pivotal moment in his musical evolution, highlighting his transition towards the "hard stuff" as he grew older. Through references to iconic songs and bands, Biafra provides a glimpse into the diverse influences that shaped his artistic journey, ultimately contributing to his distinctive voice and impact as a musician. His words serve as a testament to the power of musical exploration and the enduring influence of different genres on an artist's creative path.