Jonathan Butler - No Woman No Cry Lyrics
Lyrics
Oyeyeiye yeiye...
ooo..
I remember when we used to sit
In the government yard in Trencht
obaserving the 'ypocrites
As they would mingling with the good people we meet.
Good friends we have, oh, good friends we've lost
Along the way.
In this great future, you can't forget your past;
So dry your tears, I said
No, woman, no cry;
No, woman, no cry.
little darlin', don't shed no tears:
No, woman, no cry.
said I remember when-a we used to sit
In the government yard in Trenchtown..
And then Georgie would make the fire lights,
As it was log wood burnin'
through the nights...through the nights.
Then we would cook cornmeal porridge,
Of which I'll share with you; with you..
My feet is my only carriage,
So I've got to push push.. push on through.
Everything's gonna be all right!
Everything's gonna be all right!
Everything's gonna be all right!
Everything's gonna be all right!
Everything's gonna be all right!
Everything's gonna be all right!
Everything's gonna be all right!
no woman, no cry; oh yeah..
no woman, no cry;
No - no, woman - woman, no cry.
Woman, little darlin', don't shed no tears;
No, woman, no cry.
(Little darlin', don't shed no tears!
No, woman, no cry.
Little sister, don't shed no tears!
No, woman, no cry.)
Video
No Woman No Cry Jonathan Butler
Meaning & Inspiration
Released on October 22, 2002, as part of the album *The Ultimate Butler*, Jonathan Butler’s rendition of "No Woman No Cry" transcends a simple cover, offering a profound reflection on enduring hope and community that resonates deeply with spiritual truths. While the original composition by Bob Marley painted a vivid picture of life in Trenchtown, Jamaica, Butler, through his soulful delivery, imbues the narrative with a universal message of comfort and perseverance that can be tenderly embraced through a lens of faith. The song unfolds as a powerful recollection, inviting us into shared memories of humble beginnings and the resilience forged in challenging circumstances. It speaks of friends, both present and those who have passed on, acknowledging the bittersweet tapestry of life while resolutely declaring that comfort is at hand.
The heart of the song's story is rooted in the shared human experience of facing adversity with courage and relying on one another. The opening lines, "I remember when we used to sit In the government yard in Trenchtown observing the 'ypocrites As they would mingling with the good people we meet," paint a scene of discernment and communal observation, a call to be wise and watchful in a world where appearances can deceive. This echoes the biblical wisdom found in Proverbs 14:7, which advises us to "Stay away from a foolish person, for you will not find knowledge on their lips," encouraging us to choose our company and perceive truth. Yet, amidst the recognition of worldly imperfections, the narrative swiftly pivots to the strength found in fellowship: "Good friends we have, oh, good friends we've lost Along the way." This acknowledgement of both enduring bonds and the pain of loss is a testament to the depth of human connection, mirroring the call in Romans 12:15 to "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn."
The profound comfort offered in the refrain, "No, woman, no cry; little darlin', don't shed no tears," serves as the anchor of this song's spiritual message. It's an assurance whispered not from a place of naivete, but from deep understanding of struggle, a powerful declaration that peace can prevail even when circumstances are dire. This sentiment finds a powerful parallel in Isaiah 41:10, where God declares, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." It’s an invitation to trust in a higher power that promises to wipe away every tear. The remembrance of simple acts of kindness, like "Georgie would make the fire lights, As it was log wood burnin' through the nights... Then we would cook cornmeal porridge, Of which I'll share with you," speaks volumes about the essence of Christian charity and hospitality. This communal sharing, even from meager resources, embodies the spirit of early believers described in Acts 2:44-45, who "were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need." It’s a beautiful reminder that true provision often manifests through loving generosity within a community.
The steadfast declaration, "My feet is my only carriage, So I've got to push push.. push on through," is a testament to unwavering human spirit, powered by an internal resolve that aligns with the divine strength available to believers. It reflects the truth of Philippians 4:13, "I can do all this through him who gives me strength," affirming that even when personal resources are limited, a greater power enables us to persist. This persistence is not without purpose; it is fueled by an unshakeable hope that "Everything's gonna be all right!" This repeated assurance, delivered with Butler’s signature conviction, is not a naive wish, but a declaration of faith in a future guided by a benevolent hand. It resonates with Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." The song effectively communicates that even in the face of uncertainty and hardship, there is a divine promise of ultimate peace and restoration. Jonathan Butler's rendition transforms this message into a powerful anthem of faith, reminding us to cling to hope, comfort one another, and trust that God is indeed working all things for good, just as Romans 8:28 promises. The enduring message of "No Woman No Cry" becomes a comforting whisper and a rallying cry for all who navigate the complexities of life with faith as their guide.