What's Up?

The song dives into the struggles of life and the quest for clarity. It expresses feelings of frustration and isolation while also highlighting a desire for change. The repetitive questioning in the chorus shows a longing for answers. It’s relatable for anyone who’s ever felt lost or confused.

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

This verse sets the stage for the singer's journey. The mention of "25 years" suggests a long struggle, hinting at a life filled with challenges. The "great big hill of hope" symbolizes the tough climb toward finding purpose. It also shows that the singer has gained some awareness about life’s difficulties.

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 feel 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?"

The chorus captures the emotional release the singer experiences. Crying in bed shows vulnerability, while stepping outside and taking a deep breath suggests a need for a fresh start. The repeated question “What's going on?” emphasizes confusion and a desire for answers, which many people can relate to.

Verse 2

And I try
Oh my God, do I try
I try all the time
In this institution

Here, the singer expresses determination despite feeling trapped. The repetition of "I try" emphasizes a struggle against obstacles. The word “institution” could represent societal expectations or norms that feel confining, hinting at a desire for freedom and change.

Chorus

And I pray
Oh my God, do I pray
I pray every single day
For revolution

This chorus shifts to a hopeful tone. The act of praying signifies a yearning for something greater, a transformation in life. The use of "revolution" suggests a desire for drastic change, not just personally but perhaps on a larger scale. It indicates that the singer wants to challenge the status quo.

Bridge

And so I cry sometimes when I'm lying in bed
Just to get it all out, what's in my head
And I feel a little peculiar

The bridge revisits the theme of emotional release. Crying again highlights the heaviness of thoughts and feelings. The word "peculiar" shows that the singer feels out of place, reinforcing the overall feeling of confusion and searching for belonging.

Chorus

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?"

This chorus reaffirms the longing for clarity. The morning symbolizes new beginnings, while "getting real high" could refer to seeking inspiration or escape. The repeated scream for answers underscores the ongoing struggle to comprehend life.

Outro

And I say, hey-ey-ey
Hey-ey-ey
I said "Hey, a-what's going on?"

In the outro, the repetition of the phrase “what's going on?” reinforces the main theme of searching for understanding. It leaves listeners with a sense of unresolved questioning, which fits the song's emotional core.

Closing Thoughts

"What's Up?" is a powerful anthem about grappling with life's challenges and seeking answers. Its raw emotions and relatable themes make it resonate deeply. The song invites listeners to reflect on their own struggles while also encouraging them to keep searching for hope and clarity.