Everlast - What it's Like

"What It's Like" is a song by Everlast, released in 1998 as the lead single from his album "Whitey Ford Sings the Blues." Everlast, whose real name is Erik Schrody, is known for blending elements of hip hop, rock, and folk music in his work.

"What It's Like" is a narrative-driven song that explores themes of empathy, judgment, and the complexities of human experience. The lyrics tell three distinct stories: a homeless woman struggling with addiction, a young man dealing with the consequences of violence, and a woman facing an unplanned pregnancy. Each story sheds light on the challenges people face and the importance of understanding and compassion.

Musically, "What It's Like" features acoustic guitar and a laid-back groove, with Everlast's gravelly vocals delivering the poignant lyrics. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and receiving critical acclaim for its storytelling and emotional depth. It remains one of Everlast's most well-known and enduring songs, resonating with audiences for its powerful message and relatable themes.

Everlast What it's Like Lyrics

We've all seen the man at the liquor store
Beggin' for your change
The hair on his face is dirty, dreadlocked
And full of mange
He ask the man for what he could spare
With shame in his eyes
"Get a job, you fuckin' slob"'s all he replied

God forbid you ever had to walk a mile in his shoes
'Cause then you really might know what it's like to sing the blues
Then you really might know what it's like

Mary got pregnant from a kid named Tom
Who said he was in love
He said "Don't worry about a thing, baby doll
I'm the man you've been dreamin' of,"
But three months later
He said he won't date her or return her call
And she sweared "God damn, if I find that man
I'm cuttin' off his balls,"
And then she heads for the clinic
And she gets some static walkin' through the doors
They call her a killer, and they call her a sinner
And they call her a whore

God forbid you ever had to walk a mile in her shoes
'Cause then you really might know what it's like to have to choose
Then you really might know what it's like

I've seen a rich man beg
I've seen a good man sin
I've seen a tough man cry
I've seen a loser win
And a sad man grin
I heard an honest man lie
I've seen the good side of bad
And the down side of up
And everything between
I licked the silver spoon
Drank from the golden cup
Smoked the finest green
I stroked the baddest dimes at least a couple of times
Before I broke their heart
You know where it ends
Yo, it usually depends on where you start

I knew this kid named Max
He used to get fat stacks out on the corner with drugs
He liked to hang out late at night
Liked to get shit faced
And keep pace with thugs
Until late one night there was a big gun fight
Max lost his head
He pulled out his chrome .45
Talked some shit
And wound up dead
Now his wife and his kids
Are caught in the midst of all of his pain
You know it crumbles that way
At least that's what they say
When you play the game

God forbid you ever had to wake up to hear the news
'Cause then you really might know what it's like to have to lose
Then you really might know what it's like
To have to lose...