Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: punk
Song Meaning of “I Do What I Want” by The Real McKenzies
The Real McKenzies’ “I Do What I Want” is a raucous punk anthem celebrating freedom from societal expectations and obligations. With its upbeat melody and shouts of “whoa,” the song is about living life according to one’s own rules and opting out of the restrictive norms of society. The lyrics focus heavily on drinking and partying, but these activities serve simply as symbols of larger statement about being an individual and doing whatever you please. The chorus paints a vivid image of a person who doesn’t conform to anyone else’s standards or demands: “I do what I want and I don’t give a damn/And if they don’t like it, it don’t matter none/ They can talk till they’re blue in the face/ But I do what I want no matter the case.” Ultimately, the song gives listeners permission to be their own people, without having to adhere to anyone else’s ideals.