Crippled Crow
Kris Kristofferson Rita Coolidge Lyrics
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Sing it for a dime
Bring them all the pain you carried down the line
Your music's flyin' post their ears
Goin' through your troubles for the herd to follow
The out of tune ravings of the crippled crow
Movin' down the ladder slow
Where your friends on knee will help you
Is just a ticket to get you in
Beggar standin' on the corner dry your eye
You're tiring now
The tears you're tastin' now are only salty time
Your music's lasted through the year
Goin' through your troubles for the herd to follow
The out of tune ravings of rhe crippled crow
Movin' down the ladder slow
Where your friends on knee will help you
And the crown of thorns you're wearing
Is just a ticket to get you in
The out of tune ravings of the crippled crow
Moving down the ladder slow
Where your friends on knee will help you
The out of tune ravings of the crippled crow
Moving down the ladder slow
Where your friends on knee will help you
The lyrics of "Crippled Crow" by Kris Kristofferson and Rita Coolidge explore the struggle of a beggar who stands on the corner singing for a dime. The song is an expression of empathy for the lives that are often ignored and forgotten by society. The beggar's music is described as a way to bring the pain and troubles he carries down the line to the ears of those who can hear it. The lyrics suggest that the beggar's music is not just a personal expression but a way to inspire and encourage others to face their own struggles.
The title of the song, "Crippled Crow," is a metaphor for the beggar's voice, described as out of tune and ravings. However, despite its imperfections, the music has lasted through the years, perhaps suggesting that the beggar's voice has a lasting impact despite the obstacles and limitations he faces. The chorus repeats the phrase "moving down the ladder slow, where your friends on knee will help you," suggesting that the beggar is slowly making his way down the metaphorical social ladder, but that there are those who will offer him support and help along the way.
Overall, "Crippled Crow" is a poignant commentary on how society treats those who are struggling, and how music and art can be a means of connection and hope. It encourages listeners to see the humanity and worth of those who may be downtrodden or overlooked, and to offer support and compassion.
Line by Line Meaning
Beggar standin' on the corner sing your song
Addressing a beggar on the street corner to play his music and sing his song.
Sing it for a dime
Asking the beggar to perform his music for a small fee.
Bring them all the pain you carried down the line
Encouraging the beggar to express his hardships and struggles through his music.
Your music's flyin' post their ears
Acknowledging that the beggar's music is reaching the ears of his audience.
Goin' through your troubles for the herd to follow
Realizing the beggar is relaying his struggles to the masses in the hope of inspiring change.
The out of tune ravings of the crippled crow
Acknowledging the beggar's music may not meet traditional standards but remains powerful and meaningful.
Movin' down the ladder slow
Reflecting on the beggar's slow progression through life due to his circumstances.
Where your friends on knee will help you
Noting that the beggar may have a few close friends or supporters who assist him in his struggles.
And the cup o' tin you carry is just a ticket to get you in
Observing that the beggar's collection cup serves as his only means of entry to society.
Beggar standin' on the corner dry your eye
Advising the beggar to cease his public performance and have a rest.
You're tiring now
Realizing that the beggar is becoming fatigued from his long day of performing and must rest.
The tears you're tastin' now are only salty time
Emphasizing that the beggar's emotions remain raw and real, even if his tears have become commonplace.
Your music's lasted through the years
Realizing the beggar's music remains powerful and influential many years after performing it.
And the crown of thorns you're wearing is just a ticket to get you in
Acknowledging the beggar's hardships and painful situation simply act as his entrance into society.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner/Chappell Music, Inc., Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: DONNA T WEISS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind