Non Blondes was an American alternative rock band that started in San Francisco in 1989. The group included lead singer Linda Perry, guitarist Shaunna Hall, bassist Christa Hillhouse, and drummer Wanda Day.
They became well-known thanks to their hit song “What’s Up?” on their only album, “Bigger, Better, Faster, More!” in 1992. Though the band split up in 1994, their songs remain meaningful to many listeners, especially their messages about women’s rights and Perry’s strong singing voice.
About the Song
“What’s Up?” by 4 Non Blondes came out in March 1993. Lead singer Linda Perry wrote this well-known song about feeling lost and seeking answers.
With its simple but strong question, “What’s going on?” in the chorus, the song became popular in many countries and was used in vines and many reels. It remains an important part of alternative rock music even today.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Album’s Name | Bigger, Better, Faster, More! |
| Release Date | October 13, 1992 |
| Writers | Linda Perry |
| Producers | David Tickle |
What’s Up Lyrics by 4 Non Blondes
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
25 years and my life is still
Tryin’ to get up that great big hill of hope
For a destination, mmm
Live Performance of What’s Up by
1. Linda Perry “What’s Up?” Live on the Howard Stern Show (1996)
2. What’s Up Live on the Billboard Music Awards (1993)
Similar Songs Like What’s Up
If you liked “What’s Up” by 4 Non Blondes, here are five other songs from the band that share similar musical qualities and feelings:
- “Train”: A mix of honest singing and a memorable chorus that shows the same natural feeling and depth.
- “Drifting”: A gentle song about finding yourself, with themes like those in “What’s Up.”
- “Morphine & Chocolate”: Strong singing and real feelings make this song stand out.
- “Dear Mr. President”: True-to-life words and deep, meaningful singing create a genuine feel like “What’s Up.”
- “Spaceman”: A thoughtful song with strong vocals that shares the same honest, personal style as “What’s Up.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What Inspired the Lyrics of “What’s Up” by 4 Non Blondes?
Linda Perry wrote from her personal feelings. She shared her thoughts about life and her search for meaning in the world around her.
Are There any Lyric Videos for “What’s Up”?
Yes, you can easily find lyrics videos for the song “What’s Up” by 4 Four Blondes.
What is the Meaning of The Line “I Try All the Time in This Institution”?
The line shows Perry’s feelings about fitting into society’s systems. She speaks about trying to work within rules while feeling out of place.
What Makes “What’s Up” Resonate with So Many Listeners?
The song speaks to people through its honest words about feeling lost. Many listeners find their own experiences in Perry’s clear, simple message.
