Meaning of "What's Going On" by Cyndi Lauper

The lyrics of "What's Going On" carry a powerful message of love, unity, and social awareness. The song addresses the prevalent issues of violence, discrimination, and societal unrest. Mother, father, brother, and sister serve as symbols representing various individuals who are affected by these issues. Cyndi Lauper emphasizes the importance of finding a way to rectify these problems by bringing back love and understanding. The call for unity and dialogue instead of brutality reflects a desire for peace and harmony. The line about long hair symbolizes the judgment and superficiality prevalent in society, suggesting that appearance should not be a basis for judging others. Overall, the lyrics highlight the need for empathy, open communication, and change in order to address the issues plaguing society.

What makes "What's Going On" particularly significant is its relevance to the social and political climate of the time it was released. The song was originally recorded by Marvin Gaye in 1971 during a period of intense social upheaval, including civil rights movements and the Vietnam War. Cyndi Lauper's cover of the song in 1986 brought renewed attention to these issues and carried on the message to a new generation. The lyrics remain timeless and resonate with ongoing problems in society today.