Subtitle 1: Introduction
Sublime’s “What I Got” is an infectiously upbeat and positive song that 3rd Wave ska fans love to listen to. As the title track to their breakthrough album, 40oz. to Freedom, it quickly became one of Sublime’s most popular and beloved anthems. Since its release in 1996, the song has become iconic for its powerful message of appreciation and gratitude for what we do have, instead of focusing on what we don’t.
Subtitle 2: About the Song
“What I Got” was written by Sublime frontman, Bradley Nowell, and describes the joy he felt about having exactly what he needed in life at that moment. While the song’s main message is about Nowell’s individual happiness with his life, it also speaks to the broader socio-political issues of its time. Nowell wrote it during a period when being content with oneself and one’s circumstances felt revolutionary, as the American media was flooded with the messages of consumerism and selfishness.
The lyrics of the song are a positive reflection of Nowell’s outlook on life at the time and many of them still feel relevant today. He sings “Ain’t no use in complainin’ when you got the world at your feet,” encouraging his listeners to embrace their circumstances and believe they can make the most of what they’ve been given. He also espouses being thankful for the small pleasures life offers, like “The simple things, like cornin’ home to a soup bone and some potatoes.”
Subtitle 3: The Legacy of “What I Got”
It’s no wonder that “What I Got” has become a beloved hit for many fans of Sublime. The song captures the joy and appreciation that can be found when simply taking a step back and admiring the life one has been given. It encourages the listener to forget about all the material things we are conditioned to crave and prioritize instead being grateful for the small, meaningful moments of everyday life.
“What I Got” continues to be an anthem for 3rd Wave ska fans as well as those who simply enjoy a great uplifting tune. It’s become a timeless song that still manages to make people smile, appreciate and take a look around. With its memorable hook and simple, yet meaningful lyrics (“What I got is not what I want, but (what) I got is all I need”), the song has become a timeless classic that 1st and 2nd Wave ska fans can surely appreciate, too.