What Are You At?

Great Big Sea · Great Big Sea [1993]

Well I was walking in the main land city

And I was feeling so alone

I was looking for someone or thing to remind me of my home

What I wouldn't give to have somebody nod or wink at me



Cause that's the way we say hello in my home down by the sea

We never say "hello" or "how's it going?", "good day" or any of that

We just look at them and nod our heads and wink say 'Whadd'ya At?'



[Chorus:]

Whadd'ya At? How's she going buddy, Whadd'ya At today?

Whadd'ya At? How's she going buddy, Whadd'ya At today?



But then I walked into a shopping mall and much to my surprise

An old friend from my hometown was a sight for my sore eyes

And of all the people I met down in the city or in the mall



I think I like my hometown friend the best one of them all

Because he didn't say "hello" or "hows it going today?" or any of that

My old friend he just looked at me and smiled said "Whadd'ya At?"



[Chorus 2x]



Let this be a lesson to all our people who go away

Remember if you meet someone the special words we say

We don't ever say "hello" or "how's it going?", "good day"

Or any of that.

You just look at them and nod your head now wink say "Whadd'ya At?"



[Chorus]

What Are You At?

Great Big Sea's 'What Are You At?' stands as a defining track from their 1993 debut album, establishing the band's signature blend of folk-rock and Celtic influences. The song captures the restless spirit of the early 1990s British folk revival, utilizing acoustic instrumentation and melodic structures that would characterize their subsequent discography. As a cornerstone of their early work, it reflects the band's focus on storytelling and atmospheric soundscapes, resonating with listeners who appreciate the raw energy of independent music from that era. The track remains a staple of their catalog, illustrating their ability to craft memorable melodies that transcend specific genres while maintaining a distinct regional identity.