The song California Riots by Jamey Johnson is about leaving behind the comforts of home to pursue one's dreams in California. The lyrics talk about the protagonist's struggle to adapt to the glamorous and superficial lifestyle in California, where perfect looks and fame are the norm. While he enjoys the fame and fortune, he realizes that it is not the place where he wants to spend the rest of his life. The chorus talks about the possibility of riots and power outages in California and how the protagonist would rather be somewhere else if and when that happens. The lyrics suggest that he would rather go back to his hometown in Alabama, which he still considers his refuge. The song speaks about the conflict between chasing one's dreams and preserving one's roots and values. It highlights the struggle of adapting to a new environment that is different from what one is used to and the sense of longing for home. The overall message of the song is about staying true to oneself and finding a balance between ambition and identity.
