Bridge Over Troubled Water Lyrics - Aretha Franklin

Song Facts:

• Genre: Soul, Gospel


• Featured Artists: None


• Lyricists: Paul Simon


• Arranged By: Arif Mardin (Aretha Franklin version)


• Composers: Paul Simon


• Awards: Received a Grammy for this original piece rendered by Simon & Garfunkel; however, Aretha's rendition was the favorite.


• Soundtrack: Featured in the soundtrack of "Beautiful Game."

Annotations and Meaning:

The lyrics to the song "Bridge Over Troubled Waters" is that of Aretha Franklin, who belts out powerful soul and gospel interpretations together, reflecting a feeling of deep unity and encouragement. The main metaphor of the song is that of a bridge over troubled water. The bridge is supposed to be some firm presence, meaning the song is providing support in times of trouble.

It has been repeated: "Just like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down" for self-sacrifice and an assurance that he can be depended on. It presents the singer as one who gives himself as the stabilizing force to someone who could be going through difficulties. It is Aretha's part that picks up yet another added layer of communal/spiritual resonance, added to by her incredibly emotional performance—absolutely parallel with her gospel roots.

It is in lines "(Don't trouble the water) I won't (leave it alone)" and "(Why don't you, why don't you, let it be?)" that the most emphatically call-and-response style stands out. Borrowed from African American spirituals, these lines had an original set with one line sung by the soloist and then repeated in unison by the whole choir. This style underscores the themes of community and mutual support.

For example, some of the lines such as "When you’re down and out" and "When you’re on the street" outline points in life when one is expected to be at most desperate moments, metaphorically pointed out by the fall of the evening. The promise "I will comfort and take your part" showed serious intention to stay with a loved one in feelings and deeds.

The part that says, "Sail on silver girl, Sail on by," is the most optimistic one, encouraging the person to move on and have some hope of better days. Speaking of a "silver girl" and "her shining dreams" tends to be optimistic in a way that each struggle and low will come to an eventual leading of success and happiness.