The Meaning Behind The Song: Doin Time by Sublime

Sublime is one of the most influential punk rock bands of the 1990s. Founded in Long Beach, California by Bradley Nowell, Eric Wilson, and Bud Gaugh, the band’s music was a fusion of punk rock, reggae, ska, and hip-hop, which created a unique sound that resonated with fans and still continues to do so today.

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One of Sublime’s most iconic songs is “Doin’ Time,” which was released in 1997. This song is a cover of the classic jazz track “Summertime” by George Gershwin, and it’s a prime example of Sublime’s eclectic style. However, the lyrics of “Doin’ Time” reflect a much darker subject matter than the original song. With lyrics like “Summertime and the living’s easy, Bradley’s on the microphone with Ras M.G.,” many people may not realize that the song’s meaning goes much deeper than just the lyrics.

The Inspiration Behind the Song

In interviews, Bradley Nowell explained that the song was inspired by his experiences in prison. While Brad may have appeared to be living the life of a rockstar on the outside, his addiction to heroin led him down a path of incarceration, struggle, and ultimately to the end of his life. Brad spent time in prison, which was a significant turning point in his life and impacted the lyrics of this particular song.

The Lyrics

The lyrics of “Doin’ Time” are reflective of Brad’s experiences in prison. The opening verse, “Summertime and the living’s easy,” refers to the laid-back lifestyle of being confined in jail. While on the inside, life may be “easy” in the sense of not having to worry about day-to-day responsibilities outside of the prison walls.

The line “Bradley’s on the microphone with Ras M.G.” refers to Brad’s real-life experience of being able to record music while in prison. Brad would sing his lyrics into a phone receiver that was hooked up to a five-track recorder, and his friend Miguel, who was known as Ras M.G., would play the instruments and record the music on the outside and send it back into the prison.

The chorus of the song, “I’m livin’ off a trust fund, ain’t goin’ to work,” is both a boast and a statement of truth. At the time, Brad had inherited a trust fund that allowed him to live without working. The line also represents a subtle reference to Brad’s relationship with his father, who had died of a heroin overdose before Brad was born.

The line “You want to know what’s really a trip? I’m being followed by a moonshadow” references a Cat Stevens song by the same name. This line is likely a nod to Brad’s feelings of paranoia and being watched while in prison.

The Legacy of “Doin’ Time”

“Doin’ Time” has become an anthem for those who have struggled with addiction and have spent time in prison. The song’s lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the negative impacts of incarceration on their life. In addition, the song has a timelessness that transcends generations, with its infectious beat and nod to classic jazz music.

Sublime’s influence on the music industry is undeniable, and “Doin’ Time” is just one example of their iconic sound and influence. The song has been covered by several other artists, including Lana Del Rey, who released her version of the song in 2019, which featured a similar style to her hit single “Video Games.”

The Importance of Doin’ Time Today

Today, “Doin’ Time” still has significance for many people. The United States has the highest incarceration rate in the world, with over 2.3 million people locked up in prisons today. The impact of incarceration on individuals and communities has far-reaching consequences, and songs like “Doin’ Time” serve as a reminder of the struggles that many people face in their struggle to maintain their humanity while in prison.

As Brad said in an interview with MTV back in 1996, “I try to just be real honest. That’s the goal of my songs, is to be honest and real, to reflect what’s going on in my life in some way, shape, or form.” Brad’s honesty and authenticity in his music are what made Sublime’s music so relatable to fans, and “Doin’ Time” is a testament to that truthfulness.

In conclusion, “Doin’ Time” is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time and still resonates with many people today. While the song may seem like a typical summer anthem, its deeper meaning reflects the struggles and challenges that many people face when they’re incarcerated. The song’s legacy as an anthem for addiction and prison still holds importance to this day and will continue to do so for years to come.

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