What's Goin' On Here

Deep Purple's song "What's Goin' On Here" delves into the chaotic and disoriented state of a person who has spent the night drinking and making poor decisions. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a night gone awry, filled with regret and confusion. The protagonist finds themselves in a series of unfortunate situations, unable to recall their actions or the people they encountered. This sense of disorientation is a central theme, as the character repeatedly questions, "What's goin' on here?"

The song begins with the protagonist waking up after a night of heavy drinking, unable to stand the light and needing help to move. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, highlighting the physical and mental toll of their actions. The mention of chasing an old flame and not remembering her name adds to the sense of regret and lost opportunities. The protagonist's inability to stay in one place, coupled with the feeling that something is wrong, underscores their inner turmoil and confusion.

As the song progresses, the protagonist's journey takes them to a west side bar, where they encounter a high-class woman and continue to make poor choices. The closing of the bar and the subsequent involvement of the police further emphasize the downward spiral of the night. The protagonist's inability to remember what they said or did, and the resulting consequences, highlight the theme of losing control and facing the repercussions of one's actions. The repeated refrain of "I can't stay here, there's something wrong here" serves as a poignant reminder of the protagonist's desire to escape their current situation and find clarity.

Deep Purple's musical style, characterized by powerful guitar riffs and dynamic vocals, complements the intense emotions conveyed in the lyrics. The song captures the essence of a night filled with chaos and confusion, leaving the listener with a sense of empathy for the protagonist's plight. The raw and honest portrayal of a night gone wrong resonates with anyone who has ever found themselves in a similar state of disarray.