Meaning: The quote "We never really wanted to play in California" by Santiago Durango, a musician, can be interpreted in several ways, and it may hold different meanings depending on the context in which it was said. Santiago Durango is known for being a founding member and guitarist of the influential punk rock band Big Black, which emerged from the Chicago music scene in the 1980s. Considering this background, the quote could reflect a sentiment of disinterest or even disdain towards the music scene in California, particularly from the perspective of an artist rooted in a different musical and cultural environment.

One possible interpretation of the quote is that it expresses a sense of resistance to conforming to the expectations and pressures often associated with playing in California. The state has long been revered as a hub for the entertainment industry, and its cities, particularly Los Angeles, have been epicenters for music, film, and other forms of artistic expression. Bands and musicians from various genres often see California as a crucial market for their work, and playing there can be seen as a milestone or a validation of their success. However, for some artists, this pressure to "make it" in California can feel stifling and inauthentic. Durango's quote may then be a defiant statement, asserting that his band's priorities lay elsewhere and that they were not swayed by the allure of California's music scene.

From a more practical standpoint, the quote might also reflect logistical or personal reasons for avoiding California as a tour destination. Touring is a significant aspect of a musician's career, and it often involves navigating complex schedules, financial considerations, and personal sacrifices. In this context, Durango's statement could simply indicate that, for Big Black, the effort and resources required to tour in California did not align with their goals or preferences at the time. It could also speak to the band's desire to maintain control over their touring decisions and not succumb to industry pressures that favored California as a must-visit location.

Moreover, it's worth considering the historical and cultural dynamics of the punk rock scene in the 1980s, when Big Black was active. The punk ethos has often been associated with a rejection of mainstream commercialism and a DIY (do-it-yourself) approach to music and touring. In this light, the quote could be seen as a statement of punk authenticity, distancing the band from the perceived commercialism or conformity of playing in California. It may reflect a broader sentiment within the punk community that resisted the co-optation of underground music by major labels and mainstream industry trends.

In a broader sense, Durango's quote raises questions about the complexities of artistic autonomy and the tensions between artistic integrity and commercial success. It challenges the assumption that California is a universal aspiration for musicians and invites reflection on the diverse motivations and values that drive artists' decisions. By taking a stance against playing in California, Durango and his band may have been asserting their independence and staying true to their own vision, regardless of external expectations or industry norms.

Ultimately, without further context or commentary from Santiago Durango, the quote "We never really wanted to play in California" remains open to interpretation. It serves as a thought-provoking statement that invites consideration of the multifaceted motivations, values, and challenges that shape artists' decisions, particularly in the context of the music industry and the pursuit of creative autonomy.