Smash Mouth

Lyrics

[Chorus]
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends

[Verse 1]
I seen you, I seen you, I seen you 'round for a long long time
I really, I really, I really remember when you drank my wine

[Chorus]
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends

[Verse 2]
I seen you, I seen you, I seen you walking down in Chinatown
I called you, I called you, I called but you did not look around
I pay my, I pay my, I pay my money to the welfare line
I seen you, I seen you, I seen you standing in it every time

[Chorus]
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
[Verse 3]
The color, the color, the color of your skin don't matter to me
As long as, as long as, long as we can live in harmony
I kind of, I kind of, I kind of, like to be the president
And I could, and I could, and I could show you how your money's spent

[Chorus]
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends

[Verse 4]
Sometimes I don't speak right
But did I know what I was talking about
I know you're working for the CIA
They wouldn't have you in the mafia

[Chorus]
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends
Why can't we be friends

Why Can’t We Be Friends is a cover song originally composed by War, which gained popularity in the 1970s. The famous American rock band, Smash Mouth, re-recorded the song in their own unique way, infusing a ska-punk vibe into the track. The lyrics follow the protagonist, Steve Harwell, who is trying to forgive the person who has wronged him and move on with their relationship, despite the hurtful act they've committed. The song has an upbeat melody and an optimistic message that resonates with its listeners.

About Why Can’t We Be Friends

The classic song has always struck a chord with its fans, with its message of forgiveness and letting go of grudges. However, Smash Mouth added a new twist to the story with their version of the track. The upbeat tempo and ska-punk feel helped in creating a refreshing take on the original. The song has a catchy melody that would make you want to get up and dance while also spreading an essential message.

The track’s main focus is on the importance of letting go of grudges, and how difficult it can sometimes be to carry on without forgiving someone who has wronged you. The song’s protagonist Steve Harwell, is willing to forget about the person's deceptiveness, and continue their relationship as friends. The lyrics are easy to understand and are a reminder of how important it is to make peace with one another.

The lyrics put forth a positive message that we could all benefit from, promoting friendliness and forgiveness over anger and resentment. It seems like the lyrics were written with the sole purpose of uniting people, promoting a harmonic society. The song is a great antidote to the toxic atmosphere, often prevalent in society, where hatred and anger are expressed more often than forgiveness and love.

The song is excellently produced and arranged, with the perfect balance of guitar and percussion, making it a treat for listeners’ ears. The presence of soaring horns in the song gives it an anthemic feel, helping to reinforce the message that we could all benefit from hearing. It is a beautifully crafted song with a powerful message of hope and friendship that stands the test of time.

Conclusion

In summary, Why Can’t We Be Friends by Smash Mouth is a high-energy cover of a classic song that continues to resonate even in these modern times. At the core of its message is the importance of forgiveness, letting go of grudges, and finding friendship in even the toughest situations. The catchy, upbeat melody, and the powerful lyrics, combined with excellent production, makes the song a perfect listen for anyone who needs a boost of optimism and a reminder to stay positive.

• Release Date: April 7, 1998
• Artist: Smash Mouth