Dave Alvin, the group's primary songwriter, left the band in 1986 for a critically-acclaimed solo career. He was initially replaced on guitar by Hollywood Fats (birth name: Michael L. Mann) who appeared with them at Farm Aid. Phil Alvin has led various incarnations of The Blasters intermittently since then, including a few reunion tours and live albums of the original lineup. Personnel as of 2008 was Phil Alvin together with John Bazz, Keith Wyatt, and Bill Bateman.
The Blasters stink of rockabilly. A unique part of the Los Angeles punk scene of the 1980s, they project the essence of small streets of post-war neighborhoods, car culture and the sun-bleached concrete of Downey, California. They are lead by Phil Alvin's soulful bellowing about causing chaos, chasing women and the loss of the citrus groves. Influenced by the likes of The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, and many others who came and went during the 1950's, The Blasters play the songs of the working man's curse and rock and roll romance. Founding members Phil Alvin and John Bazz, with the addition of Keith Wyatt on lead guitar and Jerry Angel on drums, are carrying on their hard-won legacy of one of the most credible and recognizable bands in Americana music.
The Blasters first started playing in the late 70's, hammering out burning rhythm & blues and roots-influenced rock and roll in biker bars in their hometown of Downey, California. It wasn't long before word about the band's searing live sets spread to Los Angeles, and the band carved out a name for itself in the city's burgeoning club scene. Along with X and Los Lobos, the Blasters became an LA favorite. They enjoyed a punk rock following to their bluesy straightforward rock, playing to the fans of the newfangled American punk rock movement that was just at its beginning. Their debut recording on the small but feisty Rollin' Rock label has since become a coveted collector's item.
Soon thereafter, they began attracting the attention of other record companies. The band was on the crest of the wave during the resurgence of American roots rock, a genre they helped define with their debut album "American Music." Many have tried to imitate The Blasters' sound but no one has been able to harness the passion and perseverance with which they play. With a tradition of producing timeless and meaningful songs, touring extensively, and collaborating with some of the most respected roots rock artists, like John Cougar Mellencamp and Lee Allen.
The Blasters have continually stayed true to their original vision: to play songs built on America's greatest musical traditions. Upon Dave Alvin's departure to pursue a solo career in August of 1986, the band was as strong as ever and riding high on their success. After rigorously touring, The Blasters took some time off the road to reflect and work on new material. At that time, a number of major films hit theaters featuring The Blasters tunes including Bull Durham ("So Long Baby, Goodbye) and Some One To Watch Over Me ("Marie, Marie").
The Blasters spent the next few years attempting to find a guitar player suitable to measure up to the impeccable standards by which The Blasters play. The band met veteran guitar maestro, Keith Wyatt. 4-11-44 is The Blasters' fifth studio album. It is fourteen tracks of their signature rock and blues. Phil Alvin's vocals are as powerful and true as they ever were and the band follows through with steady, raucous riffs and rhythms. Their music continues to be used frequently in dark, pulp films and television shows such as From Dusk to Dawn, Streets of Fire, and Six Feet Under. Originally released in the UK in 2004, 4-11-44 was released on Rainman Records in August of 2005.
This Is It
The Blasters Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Yeah-uh,
Yeaah-uhh,
(Man if I'm up, we up, nobody be left in the dust the mud)
Yeah,
Man if I'm up, we up nobody be left in the pit
Still got my crown wussup nobody can take it from me
It is what it is
You never get what you give
Man if I'm up we up, nobody be left in the dust the mud
Still got my crown wussup nobody can take it from us you cav
I had been up and down my nigga I know how it feels
It is what it is my G' you never get what you give, you give
Ain't no way I'mma dip
I busted my ass for for this shit
I sacrificed alot to get to the place that I'm in
It took some blood and tears,
But right now I'm close to the brim
When I'm getting the cheese
I'mma break it with all of my niggas
While you fuck niggas is hating
We've been chasing the paper
(gijima, gijima)
Reason why ya'll niggas rapping, coz I was taking a break
(nga fika, nga fika)
Now that I found my way back,
Eish, ni se masimbeni
(Ni nyile, ni nyile)
I'mma bigger you know it B'
I said what I said
(ni file, ni file)
Man if I'm up we up, nobody be left in the pit
Still got my crown wussup nobody can take it from me
I had been up and down my nigga I know how it feels
It is what it is
You never get what you give
(you never get what you give)
It is what it is
You never get what you give
It is what it is
You never get what you give
It is what it is
Man if I'm up we up, nobody be left in the pit
Still got my crown wussup nobody can take it from me
I had been up and down my nigga I know how it feels
It is what it is
You never get what you give
The lyrics of The Blasters's song "This Is It" convey a message of resilience, determination, and perseverance in the face of challenges and adversity. The repeated refrain of "Man if I'm up, we up, nobody be left in the dust the mud" reflects a sense of unity and solidarity, emphasizing that the singer's success is intertwined with those around them. This sentiment is further reinforced by the assertion that "nobody can take [the crown] from me," indicating a strong sense of self-worth and confidence in their abilities.
The lyrics also touch upon the struggles and hardships the singer has endured, acknowledging the ups and downs they have faced. The line "I had been up and down my nigga I know how it feels" speaks to personal experiences of setbacks and challenges, suggesting that these trials have shaped their resilience and determination. The phrase "It is what it is" underscores a sense of acceptance and acknowledgment of the realities of life, with a subtle hint of resignation to the idea that outcomes may not always align with efforts.
The theme of hard work and sacrifice is prevalent throughout the song, with the singer declaring, "Ain't no way I'mma dip / I busted my ass for for this shit." This demonstrates a strong work ethic and dedication to their goals, even in the face of obstacles. The lyrics also touch upon the idea of success being shared with others, as the singer vows to "break it with all of my niggas" once they achieve their goals, emphasizing a sense of loyalty and camaraderie within their circle.
Overall, the song's message is one of empowerment, resilience, and the importance of staying true to oneself despite challenges. The repeated emphasis on the idea that "you never get what you give" serves as a reminder that success is not always immediate or guaranteed, but perseverance and hard work can ultimately lead to achieving one's aspirations. The lyrics celebrate overcoming adversity, staying true to one's values, and the enduring strength of solidarity and determination.
Line by Line Meaning
Man if I'm up, we up, nobody be left in the pit
When I am successful, we all succeed, and no one will be left behind
Still got my crown wussup nobody can take it from me
I still have my confidence and pride, and no one can diminish it
I had been up and down my nigga I know how it feels
I have experienced highs and lows, so I understand the struggle
It is what it is
This situation is what it is, nothing more or less
You never get what you give
You may not receive back the same energy or efforts you put in
Lyrics © O/B/O DistroKid
Written by: Theto Lekoloane
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
andyinoregon
Any fans know why they stopped performing this song in concert after the '80s decade? Always one of my favorites, but they didn't even perform it on the Reunion Tour when it hit Portland's Aladdin Theater.
Daniele Mattioli
❤