5 Shocking Facts About 4 Non Blondes' 'What's Up?'—The Song That Just Won't Die (And Is Coming Back In 2025)

Few songs from the 1990s have experienced a resurgence quite like "What's Up?" by 4 Non Blondes. Although frequently misidentified by its famous chorus line, "What's Going On?", this 1993 alternative rock anthem has proven its timeless appeal, not just as a karaoke staple, but as a modern digital phenomenon. As of late 2025, the song is more relevant than ever, thanks to a massive viral moment and exciting news about the band's future, proving that the raw, emotional power of Linda Perry's songwriting continues to resonate across generations.

Originally released over three decades ago, "What's Up?" continues to break records and capture new audiences, solidifying its status as a collective anthem about frustration and hope. The song's enduring legacy is a fascinating tale of a brief but impactful band, a misunderstood lyrical message, and a surprising return to the spotlight that has everyone asking: what is going on with 4 Non Blondes?

4 Non Blondes: A Brief Biography and Lineup History

4 Non Blondes was an American rock band formed in San Francisco, California, in 1989. The group was known for its distinct alternative rock sound, blues influences, and the powerhouse vocals and signature top hat of lead singer Linda Perry.

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• Formation: 1989 in San Francisco, California.
• Original Lineup:
  • Linda Perry: Lead Vocals, Guitar (Songwriter of "What's Up?")
  • Christa Hillhouse: Bass
  • Shaunna Hall: Guitar
  • Wanda Day: Drums
• Later Members (Post-Debut Album):
  • Roger Rocha: Guitar (Replaced Shaunna Hall)
  • Dawn Richardson: Drums (Replaced Wanda Day)
• Key Album: Bigger, Better, Faster, More! (1992)
• Breakup: 1994, largely due to creative differences between Linda Perry and the rest of the band while recording their second album.
• Post-Band Career: Linda Perry became one of the music industry's most successful songwriters and producers, penning hits for artists like Christina Aguilera, Pink, and Gwen Stefani.

The TikTok-Fueled Resurrection: Why 'What's Up?' Went Viral (Again)

In a stunning display of the song's timelessness, "What's Up?" experienced a massive, unanticipated resurgence on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, years after its initial chart success.

The Viral Phenomenon of the 'Hey Hey Hey' Moment

The song's second life began when snippets of the track—specifically the signature, raw, and highly emotional howl in the chorus where Linda Perry sings, "And I scream from the top of my lungs, 'What's goin' on?'"—became a popular sound on TikTok.

This viral trend propelled the 1993 hit to the top of digital charts. In a remarkable achievement for a song decades old, "What's Up?" hit No. 1 on TikTok's Top 50 chart and climbed to No. 2 on the Viral 50 chart.

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Creators across the platform used the sound for various types of content, from humorous reaction videos to genuine expressions of frustration, proving the song's core message—a simple, universal cry for understanding—still resonates with a generation facing complex modern issues.

The Misquoted Title That Stuck

The user query itself—"4 non blondes what's going on song"—highlights a fascinating piece of trivia. The song's official title is "What's Up?". However, the chorus's repeated and more memorable phrase, "What's going on," has led to it being commonly misquoted by fans and media for decades.

This confusion is so widespread that the band and Linda Perry have fully embraced it, acknowledging the misnomer as part of the song's unique cultural footprint. The song's enduring popularity, despite the title confusion, is a testament to its powerful melody and relatable lyrics.

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A New Chapter: Reunion Rumors, Dolly Parton, and a 2025 Album

The most current and exciting news surrounding 4 Non Blondes is the possibility of a full-fledged reunion, new music, and the continuation of the song's legacy through high-profile covers. This fresh information is what truly makes the band relevant today.

The 2025 Reunion and New Music

Lead singer and songwriter Linda Perry has recently hinted at a significant return for the band. In interviews, she has discussed the timing being right for a reunion and the potential for a new 4 Non Blondes album to be released in 2025.

Perry, who left the band in 1994, has expressed a renewed appreciation for the group's history and the staying power of "What's Up?". While details are still emerging, the prospect of new music from the band after a three-decade hiatus has generated significant buzz among fans and the music industry.

Dolly Parton's Unexpected Cover

Adding to the song's current relevance, country music legend Dolly Parton released her own cover of "What's Up?". This collaboration is particularly notable because it brought Linda Perry and Parton together, showcasing the song's ability to transcend genres and generations. Parton's version, which arrived with a sweet music video, introduced the track to an entirely new audience and further cemented its status as a classic.

A Continuous Stream of Modern Covers

Beyond Dolly Parton, the song continues to be a favorite for contemporary artists and performers on tour. High-profile artists like Pink have included covers of "What's Up?" in their 2024 Summer Carnival Tour setlists, demonstrating its enduring appeal as a powerful, crowd-uniting anthem. Even into 2025, new covers are being released, ensuring the song remains a staple in the modern music conversation.

The Undying Legacy of a Protest Song About Nothing

"What's Up?" is more than just a viral hit or a 90s nostalgia trip; it is a profound, yet simple, statement on the human condition. Linda Perry wrote the song about the universal feeling of confusion and frustration with the world, capturing the angst of a generation.

The song's enduring message is its strength. It’s a track that asks fundamental questions: "What's going on?" and "What's the meaning of life?" The TikTok phenomenon, the new covers, and the talks of a 2025 reunion all point to the same truth: the collective need to scream from the top of one's lungs and ask those big, existential questions is as relevant today as it was in 1993. The story of 4 Non Blondes and their biggest hit is a perfect example of how genuine, raw emotion can create a piece of art that truly becomes timeless.