FISHBONE – When Problems Arise

“When Problems Arise” is a song by Fishbone from their 1986 album In Your Face. The track is a high-energy fusion of punk, ska, and funk, embodying Fishbone’s signature eclectic sound. Lyrically, the song deals with themes of resilience and facing challenges head-on, reflecting the band’s often socially conscious and uplifting messages.

Musically, “When Problems Arise” features a driving beat, catchy horn lines, and dynamic vocal performances, showcasing the band’s ability to blend different genres seamlessly. This track helped cement Fishbone’s reputation as pioneers of genre-blending alternative music in the 1980s.

Fishbone is such a unique and underrated band. They have influenced countless artists across rock, punk, ska, and funk, yet they never quite reached the commercial success of some of the bands they inspired. Groups like Red Hot Chili Peppers, No Doubt, and even Primus have cited them as an influence, but Fishbone themselves remained more of a cult favorite.

A lot of it comes down to timing, industry politics, and their refusal to fit neatly into a single genre. The music industry often struggles with bands that defy easy categorization, and Fishbone was too punk for the mainstream funk crowd, too ska for the punk crowd, and too unpredictable for major labels to fully market. Plus, being a predominantly Black band in genres where that was (unfortunately) less common at the time also played a role in the challenges they faced. But among those who know, Fishbone is legendary.

There is no mystery For what I try to be …a reason for the things I do I try to tell you what Is really false or real But — You act as if you have no clue

You act this way when problems arise You act this way when problems arise

You close your eyes and hide Behind a storybook When I have something new to tell If you could put aside Your stubborn foolish pride You’d find an exit from this spell

You act this way when problems arise You act this way when problems arise

What you are — I don’t know what What you are — Pain in the butt What you are no one seems to care Why do you always do that? Why do you always do that? Why do you always do that? Why do you always do that!?!

You act this way when problems arise You act this way when problems arise