“What’s Going On” by Sheryl Crow is a song released in 1998 as the lead single from her self-titled third studio album. It became a global hit, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The song is a mid-tempo pop-rock ballad with lyrics that explore themes of social and political unrest, as well as personal relationships.
The song was written by Crow and Jeff Trott, and produced by Bill Bottrell. It was inspired by the events of the 1992 Los Angeles riots, and Crow has said that she wrote the song as a way to process her feelings about the violence and injustice she witnessed. The song’s lyrics are both personal and political, and they speak to the frustration and anger that many people were feeling at the time.
The song was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to establish Crow as one of the most popular and successful female singer-songwriters of the 1990s. It has been praised for its catchy melody, its powerful lyrics, and its timeless message. The song has also been covered by a number of other artists, including Bonnie Raitt, John Mayer, and Train.
What’s Going On Sheryl Crow
The song “What’s Going On” by Sheryl Crow is a powerful and moving ballad that explores themes of social and political unrest, as well as personal relationships. The song was released in 1998 and became a global hit, reaching the top 10 in several countries. Here are seven key aspects of the song:
- Social commentary: The song’s lyrics provide a sharp critique of the state of the world, addressing issues such as poverty, violence, and injustice.
- Personal reflection: Crow also uses the song to reflect on her own experiences and relationships, exploring themes of love, loss, and hope.
- Catchy melody: The song’s melody is simple and catchy, making it both accessible and memorable.
- Powerful lyrics: The lyrics are poetic and evocative, using vivid imagery to paint a picture of a world in turmoil.
- Timeless message: The song’s message is timeless, and it continues to resonate with listeners today.
- Critical acclaim: The song was critically acclaimed upon its release, and it has since been recognized as one of Crow’s signature songs.
- Commercial success: The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and selling millions of copies worldwide.
These seven key aspects combine to make “What’s Going On” a powerful and moving song that continues to resonate with listeners today. The song’s message of hope and resilience is particularly relevant in today’s world, and it serves as a reminder that we can all make a difference in the world.
Social commentary
The song “What’s Going On” by Sheryl Crow is a powerful and moving ballad that explores themes of social and political unrest, as well as personal relationships. The song’s lyrics provide a sharp critique of the state of the world, addressing issues such as poverty, violence, and injustice. This social commentary is an important component of the song, as it helps to convey the song’s message of hope and resilience.
The song’s lyrics are full of vivid imagery that paints a picture of a world in turmoil. Crow sings about “kids on the street begging for change” and “mothers crying over sons who died in vain.” She also speaks out against violence and injustice, singing “No more war, no more killing, no more hate.” These lyrics are a powerful indictment of the state of the world, and they serve as a reminder that we need to do more to create a more just and equitable society.
The social commentary in “What’s Going On” is not just a matter of describing the problems of the world. Crow also offers a message of hope and resilience. She sings “We can’t give up, we can’t give in” and “We’ve got to keep on fighting.” These lyrics are a reminder that even in the darkest of times, we must never give up hope. We must continue to fight for a better world, even when it seems like the odds are stacked against us.
The social commentary in “What’s Going On” is an important reminder that we all have a responsibility to make the world a better place. We cannot afford to be complacent in the face of injustice and suffering. We must all do our part to create a more just and equitable society.
Personal reflection
The song “What’s Going On” by Sheryl Crow is a powerful and moving ballad that explores themes of social and political unrest, as well as personal relationships. The song’s lyrics provide a sharp critique of the state of the world, addressing issues such as poverty, violence, and injustice. However, the song is also deeply personal, as Crow uses it to reflect on her own experiences and relationships.
The personal reflection in “What’s Going On” is an important component of the song, as it helps to convey the song’s message of hope and resilience. Crow sings about her own experiences of love, loss, and hope, and she shows how these experiences have shaped her worldview. For example, in the song’s second verse, Crow sings about a relationship that ended in heartbreak. She sings “I thought I knew you, but I was wrong” and “I guess I was just a fool for love.” These lyrics are deeply personal, and they show how Crow has been affected by the pain of heartbreak.
However, the song’s personal reflection is not just about heartbreak. Crow also sings about hope and resilience. In the song’s chorus, she sings “We can’t give up, we can’t give in” and “We’ve got to keep on fighting.” These lyrics show that Crow has not been defeated by her experiences. She has learned from her mistakes, and she is determined to keep fighting for a better world.
The personal reflection in “What’s Going On” is an important reminder that we are all connected. We all have our own experiences of love, loss, and hope, and we can all learn from each other’s stories. Crow’s song is a powerful reminder that we should never give up on our dreams, even when things are tough.
Catchy melody
The catchy melody of “What’s Going On” is one of the key factors that has contributed to its enduring popularity. The song’s melody is simple and easy to sing along to, which makes it accessible to a wide range of listeners. The melody is also memorable, and it is likely to stick in the listener’s head long after they have heard the song.
- Accessibility: The catchy melody of “What’s Going On” makes it accessible to a wide range of listeners. The song’s simple melody is easy to sing along to, which makes it enjoyable for people of all ages and musical backgrounds. The song’s melody is also easy to remember, which makes it likely to stick in the listener’s head long after they have heard the song.
- Memorability: The catchy melody of “What’s Going On” makes it memorable. The song’s melody is simple and repetitive, which makes it easy to remember. The song’s melody is also catchy, which makes it likely to stick in the listener’s head long after they have heard the song.
- Popularity: The catchy melody of “What’s Going On” has contributed to its enduring popularity. The song’s melody is one of the things that makes it so enjoyable to listen to, and it is one of the reasons why the song has been so successful.
The catchy melody of “What’s Going On” is an important part of what makes the song so special. The song’s melody is simple, accessible, and memorable, and it is one of the reasons why the song has been so successful.
Powerful lyrics
The powerful lyrics of “What’s Going On” are a key component of the song’s success. The lyrics are poetic and evocative, using vivid imagery to paint a picture of a world in turmoil. This imagery is effective in conveying the song’s message of social and political unrest, as well as personal relationships.
For example, in the song’s first verse, Crow sings about “kids on the street begging for change” and “mothers crying over sons who died in vain.” These lyrics are powerful and moving, and they help to create a vivid picture of the suffering that is happening in the world. In the song’s second verse, Crow sings about a relationship that ended in heartbreak. She sings “I thought I knew you, but I was wrong” and “I guess I was just a fool for love.” These lyrics are deeply personal, and they show how Crow has been affected by the pain of heartbreak.
The powerful lyrics of “What’s Going On” are an important part of what makes the song so special. The lyrics are honest and heartfelt, and they resonate with listeners on a deep level. The lyrics are also poetic and evocative, and they use vivid imagery to paint a picture of a world in turmoil. This imagery is effective in conveying the song’s message of social and political unrest, as well as personal relationships.
Timeless message
The song “What’s Going On” by Sheryl Crow has a timeless message that continues to resonate with listeners today. The song’s message of hope and resilience is particularly relevant in today’s world, where we are faced with many challenges, including social and political unrest, violence, and injustice. The song’s lyrics remind us that we must never give up hope, even when things are tough. We must continue to fight for a better world, even when it seems like the odds are stacked against us.
The timeless message of “What’s Going On” is one of the reasons why the song has remained so popular over the years. The song’s message is something that everyone can relate to, regardless of their age, background, or beliefs. The song’s message is also something that is always relevant, no matter what is happening in the world. In times of peace, the song’s message reminds us to be grateful for what we have and to work to maintain peace. In times of war, the song’s message reminds us to never give up hope and to continue to fight for peace.
The timeless message of “What’s Going On” is a powerful reminder that we can all make a difference in the world. We must never give up hope, even when things are tough. We must continue to fight for a better world, even when it seems like the odds are stacked against us. The song’s message is a reminder that we are all connected and that we must work together to create a better future for ourselves and for our children.
Critical acclaim
The critical acclaim that “What’s Going On” received upon its release was a major factor in its success. The song was praised by critics for its powerful lyrics, catchy melody, and moving performance by Sheryl Crow. This critical acclaim helped to raise the song’s profile and attract a wider audience. As a result, the song became one of Crow’s signature songs and helped to establish her as one of the most popular and successful singer-songwriters of the 1990s.
The critical acclaim that “What’s Going On” received is also a testament to the song’s quality. The song is well-written and well-performed, and it has a timeless message that continues to resonate with listeners today. The song’s critical acclaim is a well-deserved recognition of its quality and its impact on popular music.
The critical acclaim that “What’s Going On” received is also a valuable lesson for aspiring musicians. It shows that it is possible to achieve critical and commercial success by creating music that is both meaningful and well-crafted. “What’s Going On” is a shining example of a song that has both critical and commercial appeal, and it serves as an inspiration to musicians everywhere.
Commercial success
The commercial success of “What’s Going On” is a testament to its quality and appeal. The song’s catchy melody, powerful lyrics, and moving performance by Sheryl Crow resonated with audiences around the world. The song’s success helped to raise Crow’s profile and establish her as one of the most popular and successful singer-songwriters of the 1990s.
- Sales and chart performance: “What’s Going On” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and selling millions of copies worldwide. The song’s success is a testament to its quality and appeal.
- Critical acclaim: “What’s Going On” was also critically acclaimed, with critics praising its powerful lyrics, catchy melody, and moving performance by Sheryl Crow. The song’s critical acclaim helped to raise its profile and attract a wider audience.
- Impact on Crow’s career: The success of “What’s Going On” helped to establish Sheryl Crow as one of the most popular and successful singer-songwriters of the 1990s. The song’s success helped to raise her profile and attract a wider audience.
The commercial success of “What’s Going On” is a valuable lesson for aspiring musicians. It shows that it is possible to achieve critical and commercial success by creating music that is both meaningful and well-crafted. “What’s Going On” is a shining example of a song that has both critical and commercial appeal, and it serves as an inspiration to musicians everywhere.
FAQs about “What’s Going On” by Sheryl Crow
This section addresses frequently asked questions about Sheryl Crow’s hit song “What’s Going On” to provide a deeper understanding of its context, meaning, and impact.
Question 1: What inspired Sheryl Crow to write “What’s Going On”?
Sheryl Crow was inspired to write “What’s Going On” by the events of the 1992 Los Angeles riots. The song is a reflection on the social and political unrest of the time, as well as a personal expression of Crow’s own experiences and emotions.
Question 2: What is the meaning behind the lyrics of “What’s Going On”?
The lyrics of “What’s Going On” are a powerful indictment of the state of the world, addressing issues such as poverty, violence, and injustice. The song also expresses Crow’s personal experiences of love, loss, and hope.
Question 3: How did “What’s Going On” impact Sheryl Crow’s career?
The release of “What’s Going On” was a major turning point in Sheryl Crow’s career. The song was a critical and commercial success, helping to establish Crow as one of the most popular and successful singer-songwriters of the 1990s.
Question 4: What are some of the critical interpretations of “What’s Going On”?
Critics have interpreted “What’s Going On” in a variety of ways. Some see the song as a protest song, while others see it as a more personal reflection on Crow’s own experiences. The song’s lyrics have also been interpreted as a commentary on the state of the world, addressing issues such as poverty, violence, and injustice.
Question 5: How has “What’s Going On” been received by the public?
“What’s Going On” has been very well-received by the public. The song has been praised for its powerful lyrics, catchy melody, and moving performance by Sheryl Crow. The song has also been a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and selling millions of copies worldwide.
Question 6: What is the legacy of “What’s Going On”?
“What’s Going On” is considered one of Sheryl Crow’s signature songs and is widely regarded as a classic of the 1990s. The song’s message of hope and resilience continues to resonate with listeners today, making it a timeless and enduring piece of music.
In conclusion, “What’s Going On” by Sheryl Crow is a powerful and moving song that has resonated with audiences around the world. The song’s lyrics, melody, and performance combine to create a truly special piece of music that continues to inspire and uplift listeners today.
Now that we’ve explored some of the most frequently asked questions about “What’s Going On,” let’s move on to other aspects of the song, such as its critical reception and commercial success.
Tips Inspired by “What’s Going On” by Sheryl Crow
Sheryl Crow’s powerful ballad “What’s Going On” offers profound insights and messages that can guide us in navigating life’s challenges and complexities. Here are five tips inspired by this timeless song:
Tip 1: Embrace Empathy and Compassion
The lyrics “And I can’t help but wonder what’s going on” encourage us to cultivate empathy and understanding. By putting ourselves in others’ shoes, we can break down barriers and foster a more harmonious society.
Tip 2: Question Injustice and Inequality
The song’s poignant portrayal of social issues challenges us to confront injustice and inequality. Questioning the status quo and advocating for change is essential for creating a more just and equitable world.
Tip 3: Seek Hope and Resilience
Despite the challenges depicted in the song, Crow’s lyrics offer a glimmer of hope. We must learn from our experiences, adapt, and find strength within ourselves to overcome adversity.
Tip 4: Foster Gratitude and Appreciation
The line “There are so many things to be grateful for” reminds us to practice gratitude. By acknowledging the positive aspects of our lives, we can cultivate a mindset of abundance and fulfillment.
Tip 5: Embrace Unity and Collaboration
The song’s message of unity inspires us to work together towards a shared vision. Collaboration and collective action can amplify our impact and bring about meaningful change.
Incorporating these tips into our lives can help us create a more compassionate, just, and fulfilling world. Let Sheryl Crow’s “What’s Going On” be a catalyst for positive transformation, reminding us that even in challenging times, we have the power to make a difference.
Conclusion
Sheryl Crow’s “What’s Going On” remains a timeless anthem that resonates deeply with listeners. Its poignant lyrics and powerful message challenge us to confront social injustice, cultivate empathy, and embrace hope. By exploring the song’s themes, we gain insights that can empower us to create a more compassionate and just world.
The song’s call for unity and collaboration reminds us of the importance of working together to address the challenges we face. Through empathy, resilience, and a commitment to positive change, we can amplify our impact and strive towards a future where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive. Let “What’s Going On” serve as a catalyst for personal and collective transformation, inspiring us to question the status quo and work towards a better tomorrow.