You Get What You Give

The song 'You Get What You Give' by New Radicals is an anthem of hope and resilience that resonates with listeners through its upbeat melody and inspiring lyrics. The song begins with a call to 'wake up' and confront the 'dreamers' disease,' a metaphor for the cynicism and challenges that young people face. The reference to being 'down on your knees' at age fourteen suggests a loss of innocence and the pressures of growing up too fast in a society that can be unforgiving.

The chorus of the song is a powerful and uplifting message that encourages listeners to hold on to their dreams and the music within them. The repeated line 'You've got the music in you' serves as a metaphor for the inner strength and passion that everyone possesses. The song asserts that despite the hardships and the feeling that the world might be falling apart, there is always a reason to live and a chance for things to improve, as long as one doesn't give up. The phrase 'we only get what we give' implies a belief in karma or the idea that the energy and effort we put out into the world will eventually come back to us.

In the bridge, the song takes a critical stance against various societal issues, such as corruption in the healthcare system, the influence of big banks, and the superficiality of celebrity culture. The mention of celebrities like Beck, Hanson, Courtney Love, and Marilyn Manson, alongside the call to 'kick your ass in,' suggests a rebellion against the artificial and materialistic aspects of society. The song ultimately promotes authenticity and the idea that what's real cannot die, encouraging listeners to fly high and stay true to themselves.