Hinder's composition, "What Ya Gonna Do," stands as a defiant anthem, celebrating an unwavering love for rock 'n' roll while firmly rejecting conformity to mainstream musical tastes. The song narrates a tale of liberation from a relationship where the protagonist's individuality and musical preferences clashed markedly with their partner's expectations, emphasizing the pivotal role of self-affirmation and artistic identity.
The introductory lines resonate with a newfound sense of happiness and relief: "I'm better than you, I've never been so happy to see a girl leave." This establishes the narrative's tone, centered around a refusal to compromise one's core identity for the sake of a relationship. The rejection of societal norms is further underscored as the protagonist dismisses criticisms directed at their appearance, with the partner expressing disdain for their "dirty ripped jeans" and G'N'R shirt.
A central theme unfolds as the protagonist boldly asserts their autonomy in matters of taste: "But like what you like, don't matter to me." This declaration underscores the inherent value of individuality, emphasizing the importance of staying true to one's preferences irrespective of external opinions. The specific references to Jack Daniel's, Hennessy, Kanye, and Led Zeppelin serve as illustrative examples, painting a vivid picture of the diverse tastes that constitute the protagonist's unique identity.
The chorus emerges as a fervent rallying cry for those who align with the spirit of rock 'n' roll: "Hey, ho, Ain't nothin' little 'bout rock 'n' roll." This emphatic line celebrates the grandeur and cultural significance of rock music, firmly rejecting any attempts to diminish its importance. The explicit rejection of hip hop and the staunch determination to retain the Zeppelin 45 exemplify the protagonist's unwavering commitment to their musical roots.
The second verse delves deeper into the discord arising from differing musical tastes within the relationship: "You never liked any damn song I wrote, You spent my money and you smoked my smoke." This articulates the inherent tension created by divergent preferences, elucidating the strain it places on the relationship. The lyrics emphasize that, for the protagonist, authentic music involves guitars and classic rock, paying homage to the iconic Jimmy Hendrix.
In the final chorus, the protagonist decisively declares their intention to move forward from the relationship: "You can wait in line at the club if you wanna, Shake your ass all night but I'm gonna, Find a rocker chick that'll bang to Nirvana." This closing statement serves as a resounding affirmation of the protagonist's commitment to their rock 'n' roll identity and a rejection of compromises that dilute their artistic essence.
Hinder's "What Ya Gonna Do" encapsulates a rebellious spirit, championing the individual's right to embrace their unique tastes while staunchly rejecting societal expectations. The lyrics, replete with musical references, serve as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of rock 'n' roll and the unwavering resolve to preserve artistic identity in the face of societal conformity.
