You Got Nothing I Want

by Cold Chisel

What is “You Got Nothing I Want” really about?

If you’ve ever wondered what “You Got Nothing I Want” by Cold Chisel is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.

In 'You Got Nothing I Want' by Cold Chisel, the narrator conveys a strong message of rejection and self-sufficiency, emphasizing that the material or superficial offerings from someone else are utterly useless to them.

So… what’s this song really about?

The song 'You Got Nothing I Want' by Cold Chisel captures a powerful sentiment of defiance and dismissal. Although the lyrics are direct and repeatedly emphasize having no need or desire for what another has to offer, the song transcends simple rejection to touch upon themes of autonomy and perhaps disillusionment with materialism. The protagonist seems to be confronting someone who believes they can provide something desirable, but firmly stating that not only do they not want it, they don't need it either. This could reflect broader feelings of escaping societal expectations, personal entanglements, or professional frustrations where superficial gains are deemed insufficient for true personal fulfillment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What genre is 'You Got Nothing I Want' by Cold Chisel?
It's a rock song.

Q: When was 'You Got Nothing I Want' released?
The song was released in 1981.

Lyrics to “You Got Nothing I Want”

5 ContributorsYou Got Nothing I Want Lyrics
[Pre-Chorus]
You got the money and I got the time
Nothing better to do, so you might just change my mind
[Chorus]
You got nothing I want
You got nothing I need
You got nothing I want
You got nothing I need
Yeah
[Bridge]
I don't wanna have to tell you
Oh, how that you should do your job
I don't wanna have to be the one to shock your happy home
[Chorus]
Yeah, you got nothing I want
You got nothing I need
You got nothing I want
You got nothing I need
[Chorus]
You got nothing I want
You got nothing I need
You got nothing I want
You got nothing I need
[Outro]
Woh you ain't got nothing
You got nothing I want [fade]