The Meaning Behind The Song: What It’s Like by Everlast
Introduction
In 1998, Everlast released a song that quickly became a hit and has since become a classic. “What It’s Like” is a powerful ballad that tells the story of several individuals who are struggling to survive in life. The song’s lyrics are thought-provoking and emotionally charged, and it’s no surprise that it resonated with so many listeners. The song’s themes include poverty, addiction, and social inequality – all of which are still relevant today.
Table of Contents
Behind the Lyrics
The song’s opening lines set the tone for the rest of the track, “We’ve all seen the man at the liquor store beggin’ for your change,
The hair on his face is dirty, dreadlocked, and full of mange”. These lyrics paint a vivid picture of poverty, which is a dominant theme throughout the song. Everlast has said that the inspiration for the song came from his experiences living in a rough neighborhood where he often saw people struggling.
The lyrics go on to provide the stories of three different people – a homeless man, a drug addict, and a pregnant woman. In each case, Everlast paints a picture of an individual facing immense struggles. He sings about how “God forbid you ever had to walk a mile in his shoes ‘Cause then you really might know what it’s like to sing the blues”.
The song’s powerful lyrics have touched the lives of many people, and it’s been praised for its ability to resonate with people of all backgrounds.
The Impact of the Song
Upon its release, “What It’s Like” quickly climbed the charts, and it has since become a classic. The song’s message has touched the lives of millions, and it has become almost an anthem for those who have experienced poverty, addiction, or any other kind of hardship.
The song’s impact on listeners can be seen through its popularity and its frequent use in media. It has been featured in numerous movies and television shows, and it has been covered by various artists. In 2004, a cover version of the song was released by Canadian singer-songwriter Shawn Desman, which also became a hit.
The Continued Relevance of the Song
Although “What It’s Like” was originally released in 1998, its themes are still relevant today. In fact, poverty and social inequality are still prevalent issues in our society. A 2020 report by the United States Census Bureau found that 34 million Americans were living below the poverty line. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated the issue, with millions of people losing their jobs and struggling to make ends meet.
Given this backdrop, it’s no wonder that “What It’s Like” continues to resonate with people. The song reminds us that we all face our unique struggles and that it’s essential to show empathy and compassion towards others.
In Conclusion
“What It’s Like” is a song that has touched the lives of millions. Its impact has been felt across generations, and its themes are still relevant today. Everlast’s track reminds us of the importance of empathy and compassion and encourages us to take a closer look at the issues of poverty, addiction, and social inequality.
It is a song that speaks to the human experience and reminds us that we all have our struggles and that we all need support and understanding. Everlast’s ballad has proven to be a powerful message of hope, one that continues to inspire and encourage those who face hardships every day.
