Oasis – Whatever (Live @ Jools Holland)

“Whatever” is a song by the British rock band Oasis, released as the band’s first single in 1994. The song was written by lead guitarist Noel Gallagher and showcases the band’s distinctive Britpop sound, characterized by catchy melodies, raw guitar riffs, and anthemic choruses. “Whatever” was a commercial success, reaching number 3 on the UK Singles Chart and solidifying Oasis’ reputation as one of the leading acts of the Britpop era.

The lyrics of “Whatever” reflect Noel Gallagher’s defiant and rebellious attitude, with lines such as “I’m free to be whatever I, whatever I choose, and I’ll sing the blues if I want.” The song’s message of individualism and self-expression resonated with listeners, especially during the 1990s when Britpop culture was at its peak. The lyrics also allude to themes of escapism and freedom, with references to flying high in the sky and breaking free from societal norms.

Lyrics

I’m free to be whatever I
Whatever I choose, and I’ll sing the blues if I want
I’m free to say whatever I
Whatever I like, if it’s wrong or right, it’s alright

Always seems to me
You only see what people want you to see
How long’s it gonna be
Before we get on the bus and cause no fuss
Get a grip on yourself, it don’t cost much

Free to be whatever you
Whatever you say, if it comes my way, it’s alright
You’re free to be wherever you
Wherever you please, you can shoot the breeze if you want

It always seems to me
You only see what people want you to see
How long’s it gonna be
Before we get on the bus and cause no fuss
Get a grip on yourself, it don’t cost much

Free to be whatever I
Whatever I choose, and I’ll sing the blues if I want

Here in my mind
You know you might find
Something that you
You thought you once knew
But now it’s all gone
And you know it’s no fun
Yeah, I know it’s no fun
Oh, I know it’s no fun

I’m free to be whatever I
Whatever I choose, and I’ll sing the blues if I want
I’m free to be whatever I
Whatever I choose, and I’ll sing the blues if I want

Whatever you do, whatever you say
I know it’s alright
Whatever you do, whatever you say
I know it’s alright

Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Neil Innes / Noel Gallagher
Whatever lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Musically, “Whatever” is characterized by its lush orchestration, featuring strings and a prominent piano riff that gives the song a grand and epic feel. The song’s chorus, with its soaring vocal harmonies and anthemic quality, has become a trademark of Oasis’ sound and is often cited as one of the band’s most memorable hooks. The song’s production, overseen by renowned producer Owen Morris, is slick and polished, enhancing the song’s powerful impact.

The official music video for “Whatever” features the band performing in a grand Victorian-style mansion, with psychedelic visual effects and surreal imagery. The video captures the larger-than-life persona of Oasis and emphasizes the band’s rock-star image, with lead singer Liam Gallagher‘s swagger and charisma on full, quintessential display. The video’s stylish aesthetic and lavish production values complement the song’s grandiose sound and rebellious lyrics.

In the context of the Britpop era, “Whatever” stood out as a standout single that encapsulated the spirit of the times. Oasis emerged as one of the leading bands of the era, alongside acts such as Blur, Teenage Fanclub, Pulp, Suede and the “post-Britpop” movement including bands such as Radiohead and The Verve,  Travis and Coldplay, and their music captured the optimism and energy of British youth culture in the 1990s. “Whatever” became an anthem for a generation of fans who identified with the band’s brash attitude and gripping sound.

I think Oasis were better.

Damon Albarn, Blur 2014

Critics have praised “Whatever” for its catchy melody, bold lyrics, and powerful production. The song’s enduring popularity has made it a staple of Oasis’ live performances and a fan favorite. “Whatever” has also been covered by various artists, further cementing its status as a classic of the Britpop genre.

The success of “Whatever” propelled Oasis to international fame and set the stage for their subsequent albums, including the critically acclaimed “(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?” The song marked a turning point in the band’s career and solidified their reputation as one of the most iconic and influential acts of the 1990s. Oasis’ impact on popular music continues to be felt to this day, with their music still resonating with fans around the world.

“Whatever” by Oasis is a seminal track that embodies the spirit of the Britpop era and showcases the band’s iconic sound and style. The song’s catchy melody, bold lyrics, and riveting quality have made it a classic of the genre and a fan favorite. Oasis’ rebellious attitude and larger-than-life persona are encapsulated in “Whatever,” making it a standout moment in the band’s storied career. Appreciate the depth and complexity of “Whatever” and recognize its significance in the history of popular music.

Long live Britpop.

Steven Stelfox