12-9-18
A song made famous by Simon and Garfunkel in 1970, it has been used countless times over, as an offer of support and sympathy. I may be burned at the stake for saying this, but I have never been overly fond of Simon and Garfunkel, as a pair, and in their solo iterations. I have appreciated their work, and I’ll get down to some Simon and Garfunkel every now and then, however, I’m more prone to hitting the next button. Maybe it’s for that reason the Aretha Franklin version has always moved me more.
The spiritually minded pop-rock classic that Simon and Garfunkel created was covered by the soul singer a year after its release. Franklin’s version went on to be one of her most recognizable songs. Aretha’s version seems to hit an emotional chord that the original only hints at.
After learning more about the personal and professional struggles Simon and Garfunkel were going through during the recording of this song, one which would ultimately be their last, I can’t help but think maybe this is the reason it doesn’t fully connect, at least not for me. There’s a resonant sound in Aretha’s version that seems to connect and impact on a broader level.
One of the beautiful elements of this song is in straightforwardness. The lyrics speak directly and earnestly, offering sympathy and hope. When I hear the strength in Aretha’s voice I am empowered, and comforted. The warmth and compassion in every note bring with it an empathetic feeling. Through her voice, and her use of the music I can deeply feel the support and love come through.
Lyrics:
[Intro]
(Don’t trouble the water)
I won’t (leave it alone)
(Why don’t you, why don’t you, let it be?)
Um hum hum
(Still water run deep… yes it do)
I know that
(Whoa-o-o-yeah)
If you only believe
(Don’t trouble the water)
Said I wouldn’t (leave it alone)
(Why don’t you, why don’t you, let it be?)
Umm (still water run deep)
Yes it do
(Yes it do whoa-oh-ho yeah), if you only believe
[Verse 1]
When you’re down and out
When you’re on the street
When evening falls so hard
I will comfort you
I’ll take your part
Oh when darkness comes
And pain is all, is all around
[Chorus]
Just like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
(Like a bridge)
Just like a bridge
(Over troubled) over troubled water
I will lay me down
[Verse 2]
Sail on silver girl
Sail on by
Your time has come to shine
All of your dreams are on their way
(See how they shine?)
Ooooh and if you ever need a friend
(Need a friend)
Look around, I’m sailing right behind
[Chorus]
Just like a bridge
(Bridge (over) over (troubled) water
I’ll be there to lay me down
(Like a bridge)
Like a bridge over (troubled water) troubled water
I will lay me down
Ooooh I’ll be your bridge
Yes I will
[Bridge]
(Don’t trouble the water)
Said I wouldn’t
(Leave it alone)
Well (why don’t you, why don’t you, let it be?)
Uh-huh (still water run deep)
I know that
(Yes it do) yeah (oh-oh-oh yeah)
Still water (don’t trouble the water)
Yeah
(Leave it alone, why don’t you, why don’t you, let it be)
Talking bout still water
(Still water run deep)
You know they run deep
(Yes it do) uh-huh (oh-ho-ho-yeah)
Well I’m gonna be your bridge yeah!
(Don’t trouble the water)
The troubled water (leave it alone)
Oh!
[Outro]
(Why don’t you, why don’t you, let it be?)
Come on come on
Walk out on me
(Still water run deep)
Oh
(Yes it do)…