Lavigne and Hoppus worked on the song remotely over Zoom , a departure from traditional studio sessions. Lavigne cited Hoppus as one of her favourite artists, noting that blink-182’s early albums, Dude Ranch and Enema of the State , were highly influential during her teenage years.

Beyond Hoppus’s guest vocals and bass performance, the track was produced by blink-182 drummer Travis Barker , alongside John Feldmann and MOD SUN.

According to Kerrang! , the track returns Lavigne to her alternative and pop-punk roots, characterised by fast-paced electrifying guitars and dynamic drum hits. Lyrical Themes and Analysis

The song represents a significant collaboration between Lavigne and the pop-punk heavyweights of blink-182.

Lyrically, "All I Wanted" is described by Loudwire as a "pop-punk heartbreaker of nostalgic proportions".