What's Up?

P!nk P!nk

The Quest for Meaning in P!nk's 'What's Up?'

P!nk's rendition of 'What's Up?' originally performed by 4 Non Blondes, is a powerful anthem that resonates with the universal feeling of searching for purpose and understanding in life. The song begins with a reflection on the passage of time and the ongoing struggle to reach a metaphorical 'great big hill of hope' for a destination. This destination can be interpreted as a personal goal, a sense of fulfillment, or a better world. The lyrics express a sense of disillusionment with the state of humanity and a longing for a more united world, 'the brotherhood of man,' which seems to be an elusive concept.

The chorus, with its repeated question 'What's going on?' is a raw and emotional outcry, a call for clarity amidst the confusion of life. It captures a moment of existential questioning, where the artist steps outside, takes a deep breath, and seeks to find the essence of her existence and the state of the world. The act of screaming at the top of her lungs symbolizes a release of pent-up emotions and a desire to be heard.

The song also touches on themes of persistence and the desire for change. The lyrics 'And I try, oh my God, do I try' and 'I pray every single day for a revolution' reflect a deep commitment to personal growth and societal transformation. The repetition of these lines emphasizes the ongoing effort and hope that fuels the artist's journey. Despite the challenges, there is a sense of resilience and a continuous search for meaning and progress.

Share on social media Share as link
  1. Raise Your Glass
  2. Try
  3. Turbulence
  4. Just Give Me a Reason (feat. Nate Ruess)
  5. Cover Me In Sunshine (feat. Willow Sage Hart)
  6. What About Us
  7. Try Too Hard
  8. It's All Your Fault
  9. Slut Like You
  10. Where We Go
View all P!nk songs

Most popular topics in P!nk songs

Related artists

  1. James Blunt
    James Blunt
  2. OneRepublic
    OneRepublic
  3. Alanis Morissette
    Alanis Morissette
  4. Avril Lavigne
    Avril Lavigne
  5. Evanescence
    Evanescence
  6. Lady Gaga
    Lady Gaga
  7. Beyoncé
    Beyoncé
  8. Shakira
    Shakira