Meaning of “Whatever” by Oasis
“Whatever” by Oasis, released in 1994, encapsulates a defiant and carefree attitude emblematic of the 1990s’ Generation X ethos. Written by Noel Gallagher, the song serves as a bridge between the band’s first two albums and conveys a sense of self-confidence and nonconformity through its chorus—“Whatever you do, whatever you say, yeah, I know it’s alright.”
The lyrics celebrate individuality and self-expression, allowing for various interpretations and personal connections, representative of the broader themes of the Britpop era.
“Whatever” is a notable song for several reasons, and here are some facts about it:
Release Date: “Whatever” was released on December 18, 1994, serving as a standalone single between the band’s debut and second albums.
Chart Performance: The song was successful, reaching number three on the UK Singles Chart and earning a Gold certification. It also charted in various other countries.
Orchestration: The song is known for its lush orchestration, featuring a string section arranged by Nick Ingman.
Legal Dispute: Oasis faced a legal dispute over the song, as it was alleged that “Whatever” bore a resemblance to a song called “How Sweet to Be an Idiot” by Neil Innes. The case was settled out of court, and Innes was awarded a songwriting credit. Furthermore, he also received royalties from the song.
Live Performances: The song became a staple of Oasis’ live performances and was often played as part of the setlist during concerts.
Music Video: The music video for “Whatever” was directed by Mark Szaszy and features the band playing the song accompanied by an orchestra.
