The Meaning Behind The Song: Whatcha Gonna Do? by Pablo Cruise
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whatcha Gonna Do? | Pablo Cruise | Cory Lerios & David Jenkins | A Place in the Sun (1977) | April 1977 | Rock, Pop, Seventies, Yacht Rock | Bill Schnee |
As the catchy chorus of “Whatcha Gonna Do?” by Pablo Cruise plays, we are immediately entranced by the energetic and infectious melody. But beyond the catchy tune lies a deeper meaning that resonates with listeners. Released in 1977 as part of their album “A Place in the Sun,” this song explores the feelings of heartbreak, regret, and self-reflection.
The lyrics begin by posing a series of questions: “What you gonna do when she says goodbye? What you gonna do when she is gone?” These questions instantly grab our attention and make us reflect on our own experiences. We have all faced the impending possibility of losing someone we love, and the uncertainty of what to do in that situation can be overwhelming.
The song then delves into the protagonist’s personal struggles in a troubled romance. The lyrics suggest that the individual may not be fully aware of the gravity of the situation, as they “don’t recognize what everybody knows.” It is an all-too-relatable feeling – sometimes, we are blind to the warning signs in our relationships, and it takes a major event like a breakup to wake us up.
The chorus repeats the initial questions, emphasizing the need to face the reality of the impending loss. The lyrics seem to convey a sense of urgency, urging the listener to confront their feelings and make a decision. The repetition further solidifies the importance of taking action and not letting someone slip away without a fight.
The second verse takes a different approach, focusing on the aftermath of the breakup. It highlights the protagonist’s readiness to give up on love and relationships as a result of the disappointment they have endured. The lyrics suggest that the individual had certain expectations that were not met, leading them to question the value of continuing to pursue love.
The mention of friends calling the protagonist a “fool” adds another layer to the narrative. It suggests that others may see the value in what the protagonist had, but they are unable to recognize it themselves. This sentiment is relatable to many who have experienced heartbreak – sometimes, it takes an outsider’s perspective to make us realize what we have lost.
The repetition of the chorus reinforces the themes of the song, driving home the importance of confronting and grappling with the reality of losing someone we love. The urgency embedded in the lyrics creates a sense of emotional tension, reflecting the desperation to hold on to what we cherish.
Personally, “Whatcha Gonna Do?” holds a special place in my heart. It takes me back to a time when I was going through a difficult breakup. The raw emotions depicted in the song resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the pain and confusion I experienced during that period of my life.
The power of music lies in its ability to capture and articulate emotions, and “Whatcha Gonna Do?” does just that. The lyrics encapsulate the universal struggle of losing someone we love and the inner turmoil that ensues. It serves as a reminder to confront our emotions head-on and appreciate the love we have while it’s still within our grasp.
In conclusion, “Whatcha Gonna Do?” by Pablo Cruise is a timeless song that delves into the complexities of love, loss, and self-reflection. Its catchy melodies and relatable lyrics have made it a classic in the realm of heartbreak anthems. Whether we have personally experienced the pain of a breakup or not, the song’s universal themes allow it to strike a chord with listeners of all backgrounds.
