101 Strings was an umbrella term for a highly successful easy listening sym… Read Full Bio ↴101 Strings was an umbrella term for a highly successful easy listening symphonic music organization, with a discography exceeding a hundred albums and a creative lifetime of roughly thirty years. Their LPs were individualized by the slogan "The Sound of Magnificence", a puffy cloud logo and sepia-toned photo of the orchestra. According to the photograph, the 101 Strings orchestra was composed of 124 string instruments (all male except for the harpist) and was conducted by Wilhelm Stephan. The orchestra's famous official photograph was taken in the Musikhalle Hamburg. In reality, of course, the recordings also featured a full brass, woodwind and percussion section, and not quite as many strings as are shown in the photograph. In later years (right up to the 80's), the recordings were made by a session orchestra in London, with a line-up including a modern "pop" rhythm section. In the late 1990's, the 101 Strings Orchestra was revived with "The New 101 Strings Orchestra" for a series of modern recordings.

Bridge Over Troubled Water
101 Strings Orchestra Lyrics

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When you're weary, feeling small
When tears are in your eyes, I'll dry them all (all)
I'm on your side, oh, when times get rough
And friends just can't be found
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down

When you're down and out
When you're on the street
When evening falls so hard
I will comfort you (ooo)
I'll take your part, oh, when darkness comes
And pain is all around
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down

Sail on silver girl
Sail on by
Your time has come to shine
All your dreams are on their way
See how they shine
Oh, if you need a friend
I'm sailing right behind
Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind

Like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind

Overall Meaning

The song Bridge Over Troubled Water by 101 Strings Orchestra is a soulful and touching ballad that speaks to the unconditional love and support that one person can provide for another during times of struggle and hardship. The first verse addresses the weariness and sadness that one can experience when facing life's challenges. In these moments, the singer assures their loved one that they will always be there to support and comfort them, acting as a bridge over the troubled waters of their life. The second verse continues in this vein, promising to be a source of strength and solace during difficult times. Finally, the last verse shifts to a more hopeful and optimistic tone, with the singer recognizing their loved one's potential and encouraging them to pursue their dreams.

The refrain of "Like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down" speaks to the selflessness and sacrifice required to be a true source of support for another. The metaphor of a bridge connotes stability, strength, and steadfastness in the face of adversity, while the act of "laying down" suggests a willingness to put oneself in harm's way in order to protect and uplift another. This simple yet powerful refrain encapsulates the central message of the song: that love, compassion, and loyalty can act as a beacon of light in dark times, and that one person can make all the difference in another's life.

Line by Line Meaning

When you're weary, feeling small
When you are tired and feeling insignificant

When tears are in your eyes, I'll dry them all (all)
When you are crying, I will comfort you and make you feel better

I'm on your side, oh, when times get rough
I am your ally and will support you through difficult situations

And friends just can't be found
When you can't find anyone else to turn to

Like a bridge over troubled water
I will be a source of stability and strength in your life

I will lay me down
I will sacrifice myself for your well-being

When you're down and out
When you are feeling low and defeated

When you're on the street
When you are homeless or struggling financially

When evening falls so hard
When darkness and loneliness set in

I will comfort you (ooo)
I will provide emotional support and solace

I'll take your part, oh, when darkness comes
I will defend you and stand by your side when times are tough