Released: 1996
Sublime’s ‘What I Got’ is a laid-back anthem that champions love and positivity amidst life’s struggles. It’s a feel-good track that emphasizes the importance of cherishing what you have, rather than dwelling on what you don’t.
The opening lines set the scene for a day in the life of the narrator. He’s waking up, lighting a cigarette, and strapping on his shoes, all while contemplating the hardships he’s facing. His money’s all gone, but he’s still able to find joy in the simple things like his Dalmatian and playing the guitar.
The chorus is a powerful reminder to appreciate the present moment. Life is unpredictable and can be cut short at any moment, so it’s important to love the ones you have while you can. The line ‘Never start no static, I just get it off my chest’ suggests the narrator’s preference for peace over conflict.
The narrator encourages us to be generous, suggesting we give all our money to charity. This is a metaphorical way of saying that material wealth isn’t as important as love and kindness. He’s proud of his Long Beach roots, and believes in karma – ‘It all comes back to you, you’re bound to get what you deserve’.
The lines ‘Why I don’t cry when my dog runs away, I don’t get angry at the bills I have to pay’ show the narrator’s resilience in the face of adversity. He doesn’t let setbacks get him down, instead focusing on maintaining a positive attitude.
The song ends on a somewhat ambiguous note, with the narrator saying ‘We’re not that far off, So, that’s the, See, but, We’re done, man’. This could be interpreted as a sign that despite our differences, we’re all more alike than we think, and it’s time to wrap up the song and move on.
‘What I Got’ is a testament to Sublime’s ability to blend elements of rock, reggae, and punk into a unique sound that resonates with listeners. It’s a song that encourages us to stay positive, love what we have, and spread that love to others.
