Ripple (Song)

From Jane's Addiction Wiki

Ripple is a song originally by The Grateful Dead that Jane's Addiction recorded for the Deadicated tribute album. The song was also released on a promo single. It was performed live once on October 31, 1990 at the Henry Fonda Theatre in Los Angeles, CA.

In the liner notes of the Deadicated album, Eric Avery is quoted with the following:

This song meant a lot to me when I was too young (but trying) to grow facial hair, smoking too much pot and contemplating teen suicide. Before the glory of punk rock, I was a Grateful Dead fanatic but don't tell anyone... it might be detrimental to my image.

Lyrics

If my words did glow with the gold of sunshine
And my tunes were played on the harp unstrung
Would you hear my voice come through the music?
Would you hold it near as it were your own?
It's a hand-me-down, the thoughts are broken
Perhaps they're better left unsung
I don't know, I don't really care
Let there be songs to fill the air

Ripple in still water
Where there is no pebble tossed
Nor wind to blow

Reach out your hand if your cup be empty
If your cup is full may it be again
Let it be known there is a fountain
That was not made by the hands of men
There is a road, no simple highway
Between the dawn and the dark of night
And if you go no one may follow
That path is for your steps alone

Ripple in still water
Where there is no pebble tossed
Nor wind to blow

You who choose to lead must follow
But if you fall you fall alone
If you should stand then who's to guide you?
If I knew the way I would take you home