The Offspring, an American rock band, wrote the song "Why Don't You Get a Job?" It was included on their fifth album, Americana, and was made available as a single on March 30, 1999.
This musical work is a critique of the less desirable aspects of American life, particularly the artificial and disposable culture that is so vigorously promoted by the media.
Despite the fact that "Americana" was a commercial and popular success, a segment of the Offspring fan base felt that the record was too commercial and "sold out" to the culture of which they had been so critical.
"Why Don't You Get a Job" was a nice and happy ska with lyrics closely related to the concept of the album, reflecting on all those people who spend a lot of money without working for anyone every day and who live off the commercial fantasies of quotas, credits and tragic debts. This song was one of the most hive-inducing among fans who hated "Americana."
Dexter Holland, the singer/songwriter of the song, states that the backbeat of "Why Don't You Get A Job?" It is derived from The Beatles' "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da" and incorporates some elements of the soulful "Cecilia" by duo Simon and Garfunkel. This contrasts with the lyrics of the song, which is a call to attention to those "lazy" people who live off other people's money, despite the fact that their sound is closely linked to the joy of Ska chords.
A closer look at the song's lyrics reveals that they contain sarcasm and are meant to be taken as a hint to those who live opulent lives without working or risking their brains to consider what to do. to generate income for their vices.
A man and a woman with a similar history, both non-working and in-debt professionals, are depicted in Holland's novel. Easy money is an emotion that is closely linked to these times in the midst of a consumer society. There are still those who trust him despite facing numerous bank loans, offers and credit cards. They spend cash like there's no tomorrow, but they'll continue to live in debt until the system collapses because they won't get a job to pay back the money they've borrowed.
The song was an international hit, peaking at number 74 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number two on the UK Singles Chart. It managed to reach the top ten on the charts in Austria, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and Switzerland, and has since become one of the band's best-known songs.
We leave you with this fantastic song from the late 90s, with a timeless melody and social relevance. Enjoy this commented Ska, boys and girls, and don't get into debt!
Enjoy!!