Songs That Changed the World--The Most Important Songs of the Rock Era: "The Streets of Philadelphia" by Bruce Springsteen

The song, like the move Philadelphia, focused attention on the horrific AIDS disease.  It didn't ask for pity but just a little understanding.

"Streets of Philadelphia"

by Bruce Springsteen

 

Words and Music by Bruce Springsteen


I was bruised and battered, I couldn't tell what I felt.
I was unrecognizable to myself.
I saw my reflection in a window, I didn't know my own face.
Oh brother are you gonna leave me wastin' away
On the Streets of Philadelphia.

I walked the avenue, 'til my legs felt like stone,
I heard the voices of friends vanished and gone,
At night I could hear the blood in my veins,
Black and whispering as the rain,
On the Streets of Philadelphia.

Ain't no angel gonna greet me.
It's just you and I my friend.
My clothes don't fit me no more,
I walked a thousand miles
Just to slip this skin.

The night has fallen, I'm lyin' awake,
I can feel myself fading away,
So receive me brother with your faithless kiss,
Or will we leave each other alone like this
On the Streets of Philadelphia