About The Song
“No Woman, No Cry” is a classic reggae song by Bob Marley and The Wailers, released in 1974 on the album “Natty Dread.” The song’s poignant lyrics reminisce about Marley’s impoverished upbringing in Trench Town, Jamaica, while offering a message of optimism and resilience.
Five Facts:
- Live Version Significance: The most well-known version of “No Woman, No Cry” is a live recording from the Lyceum Theatre in London in 1975. This version is often considered one of the greatest live performances in the history of reggae music and contributed significantly to the song’s popularity.
- Songwriting Collaboration: The song was co-written by Vincent Ford, a friend of Bob Marley. Ford’s contributions to the lyrics are notable, and the song is often credited to both Marley and Ford. The title reflects a positive message, suggesting that without the burden of a woman’s troubles, life becomes easier.
- Tribute to Trench Town: The lyrics of “No Woman, No Cry” serve as a nostalgic tribute to Trench Town, a neighborhood in Kingston, Jamaica, where Bob Marley spent a significant part of his life. The song reflects on the struggles of the impoverished community while conveying a sense of hope and perseverance.
- Reggae Anthem: The song has become an anthem for reggae music and is one of Bob Marley’s most recognizable and enduring tracks. Its universal themes of struggle, love, and hope have resonated with audiences worldwide, making it a timeless classic.
- Cultural Impact: “No Woman, No Cry” has been covered by numerous artists from various genres, further solidifying its place in music history. The song’s impact extends beyond the realm of music, as its message of resilience and positivity has been embraced globally, making it one of Bob Marley’s signature songs.
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Lyrics
No woman, no cry
No woman, no cry
No woman, no cry
No woman, no cry‘Cause, ’cause, ’cause I remember when we used to sit
In the government yard in Trenchtown
Oba, observing the hypocrites, yeah
Mingle with the good people we meet, yeah
Good friends we have had, oh good friends we’ve lost along the way, yeah
In this bright future you can’t forget your past
So dry your tears I say, yeahNo woman, no cry
No woman, no cry, eh, yeah
Little darling don’t shed no tears
No woman, no cryEh, said, said, said I remember when we used to sit
In the government yard in Trenchtown, yeah
And then Georgie would make the fire light, I say
A log wood burning through the night
Then we would cook corn meal porridge, I say
Of which I’ll share with you, yeah
My feet is my only carriage
And so I’ve got to push on through
But while I’m goneEverything’s gonna be alright
Everything’s gonna be alright
Everything’s gonna be alright
Everything’s gonna be alright
Everything’s gonna be alright
Everything’s gonna be alright
Everything’s gonna be alright
Everything’s gonna be alright
So no woman, no cry
No woman, no cry, I say
Oh little, oh little darling, don’t shed no tears
No woman, no cry, ehNo woman, no woman, no woman, no cry
No woman, no cry
One more time I’ve got to say
Oh little, little darling, please don’t shed no tears
No woman, no cry