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“What’s Up?” written by Linda Perry, is a song released on the 13th of October 1992. It is the third song from the 1992 album by 4 Non Blondes titled, Bigger, Better, Faster, More. The meaning of “What’s Up?” lyrics by 4 Non Blondes is a search for meaning, self-discovery, and the questioning of societal norms. “What’s Up” by the girl band 4 Non Blondes remains a timeless anthem that captivated audiences around the world upon its release in 1992. The powerful lyrics fused with a memorable melody in the song “What’s Up?” resonated with listeners. Hence, the song peaked on the musical charts in multiple countries.
The Genesis of “What’s Up?” Lyrics Meaning by 4 Non Blondes
Bassist Christa Hillhouse fondly recalls the genesis of the song, sharing a personal anecdote. Linda Perry, the band’s talented vocalist, had quit her job and was residing with Hillhouse in a small San Francisco flat. While Hillhouse was engaged in intimate moments, she overheard Perry composing the song from a neighboring room. Struck by the beauty of the melody, Hillhouse encouraged Perry to complete the song, despite her initial doubts about its originality.
Interestingly, “What’s Up” is titled as such to avoid confusion with Marvin Gaye’s iconic track, “What’s Going On.” Although the phrase does not appear in the lyrics, the song’s intent and message remain crystal clear.
Why Is 4 Non Blondes’ “What’s Up?” the Worst Song of the 90’s?
4 Non Blondes’ “What’s Up?” has received criticism from some critics and music enthusiasts who consider it one of the “Worst Songs of the ’90s,” despite its popularity. These critics point out that the song’s repetitive structure and simplistic lyrics contribute to this negative view. The chorus, with its frequent repetition of the phrase “hey-ey-ey,” has been a particular issue for those seeking more complex songwriting. Additionally, some critics argue that the lyrics lack depth and complexity, failing to provide profound insights or meaningful storytelling. Ultimately, classifying “What’s Up?” as the “Worst Song of the ’90s” showcases the subjective nature of musical taste and the diversity of opinions within the realm of music criticism.
4 Non Blondes’ “What’s Up?” Lyrics Meaning From the Feminist Point of View
“What’s Up?” lyrics by 4 Non Blondes hold significant resonance from a feminist standpoint. These lyrics hold an important message of empowerment and a call for gender equality. The line “And I try, oh my god, do I try, I try all the time, in this institution” highlights the struggles faced by women within societal structures that limit their opportunities and voice. Also, the singer’s longing for revolution and her plea for answers in the chorus demonstrate a desire to challenge the status quo and demand change. By expressing vulnerability and seeking understanding, the song breaks away from traditional gender roles and encourages women to question and stand up against oppressive norms. Ultimately, “What’s Up?” becomes a feminist anthem, advocating for self-expression, equality, and the dismantling of societal barriers. You can listen to 4 Non Blondes’ “What’s Up?” below.
4 Non Blondes, What’s Up? The English Lyrics & Their Meaning
In “What’s Up?” lyrics, the opening verse reflects the singer’s personal reflection on life’s challenges and the pursuit of a brighter future. The lines “25 years and my life is still, Tryin’ to get up that great big hill of hope, For a destination” convey a sense of resilience and the enduring quest for personal fulfillment.
In the pre-chorus, 4 Non Blondes introduces a poignant introspection, as the singer describes moments of vulnerability and the need to release pent-up emotions. The lyrics “And so I cry sometimes when I’m lying in bed, Just to get it all out what’s in my head, And I, I am feeling a little peculiar” express the universal experience of seeking solace in emotional release.
Then, the chorus serves as a rallying cry, with the singer passionately questioning the world around her. The repeated lines “And I say, hey-ey-ey, Hey-ey-ey, I said ‘Hey, a-what’s going on?'” highlight the singer’s longing for answers and a deeper understanding of the world.
In the second verse, the singer talks about her constant struggle within societal confines. These lyrics “And I try, Oh my God, do I try, I try all the time, In this institution” embody the spirit of rebellion against oppressive systems. The subsequent lines “And I pray, Oh my God, do I pray, I pray every single day, For revolution” emphasize the singer’s desire for profound change.
Resurgence of “What’s Up?” and a New Generation
In recent times, “What’s Up” found renewed relevance through creative reimagining. SLACKCiRCUS released a remake titled “Fabulous Secret Powers,” featuring characters from the 80s cartoon “He-Man and the Masters of the Universe.” This fresh interpretation breathed new life into the song, capturing the imagination of a new generation of listeners.
The enduring popularity of “What’s up?” lyrics by 4 Non Blondes can be attributed to the meaning that expresses the universal quest for understanding, hope, and revolution. This song remains an indelible part of musical history, transcending boundaries and resonating with people across generations.
What Are the Lyrics of “What’s Up?” by 4 Non Blondes in English?
These are the lyrics of 4 Non Blondes’ “What’s Up?” via Genius in English:
[Verse 1]
25 years and my life is still
Tryin’ to get up that great big hill of hope
For a destination
I realized quickly when I knew I should
That the world was made up of this brotherhood of man
For whatever that means[Pre-Chorus]
And so I cry sometimes when I’m lying in bed
Just to get it all out what’s in my head
And I, I am feeling a little peculiar
And so I wake in the morning and I step outside
And I take a deep breath and I get real high
And I scream from the top of my lungs
“What’s going on?”[Chorus]
And I say, hey-ey-ey
Hey-ey-ey
I said “Hey, a-what’s going on?”
And I say, hey-ey-ey
Hey-ey-ey
I said “Hey, a-what’s going on?”[Bridge]
Ooh, ooh
Ooh
Ooh, uh huh
Ooh, ooh
Ooh
Ooh, uh huh[Verse 2]
And I try
Oh my God, do I try
I try all the time
In this institution
And I pray
Oh my God, do I pray
I pray every single day
For revolution[Pre-Chorus]
And so I cry sometimes when I’m lying in bed
Just to get it all out, what’s in my head
And I, I am feeling a little peculiar
And so I wake in the morning and I step outside
And I take a deep breath and I get real high
And I scream from the top of my lungs
“What’s going on?”[Chorus]
And I say, hey-ey-ey
Hey-ey-ey
I said “Hey, what’s going on?”
And I say, hey-ey-ey
Hey-ey-ey
I said “Hey, a-what’s going on?”
And I say, hey-ey-ey
(Wake in the morning and step outside)
Hey-ey-ey
(Take a deep breath and I get real high)
(And I scream)
I said “Hey, a-what’s going on?”
And I say, hey-ey-ey
(Wake in the morning and step outside)
Hey-ey, yeah yeah yeah
(Take a deep breath and I get real high)
(And I scream)
I said “Hey, a-what’s going on?”[Bridge]
Ooh, ooh
Ooh
Ooh, uh huh[Outro]
4 Non Blondes’ “What’s Up?” Lyrics in English
25 years and my life is still
Tryin’ to get up that great big hill of hope
For a destination, mmm
Comment on the meaning behind the song “What’s Up?” lyrics by 4 Non Blondes below or on the Twitter handle “@laviasco”.
