If I Have to Wake Up (Would You Stop the Rain?)

Album: Purple (2015)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Purple was the first album the band released after a horrific 2012 tour bus accident that mangled the band physically and emotionally. Lead singer John Baizley got the worst of it, nearly losing his left arm, which would have put an end to his guitar playing. In the midst of his long recovery, two of his bandmates who were also injured in the crash - bass player Matt Maggioni and drummer Allen Blickle - left the band.

    "If I Have to Wake Up (Would You Stop the Rain?)" finds him coming to terms with the tragedy and returning to music. He explained in Entertainment Weekly: "It's about that moment directly after the crash. I was broken and twisted and covered in gasoline, and then there's a torrential downpour. The only thing that kept me going were those people and my family and their love and support. I have no better way of thanking people than through that song."

Comments: 1

  • Chris from Asheville, North Carolina, UsaThe lyrics to this song seem so powerful and moving, but I wish I knew what they were about! Someone please chime in, if you know.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Spooner Oldham

Spooner OldhamSongwriter Interviews

His keyboard work helped define the Muscle Shoals sound and make him an integral part of many Neil Young recordings. Spooner is also an accomplished songwriter, whose hits include "I'm Your Puppet" and "Cry Like A Baby."

Hawksley Workman

Hawksley WorkmanSongwriter Interviews

One of Canada's most popular and eclectic performers, Hawksley tells stories about his oldest songs, his plentiful side projects, and the ways that he keeps his songwriting fresh.

Wherefore Art Thou Romeo Lyric

Wherefore Art Thou Romeo LyricMusic Quiz

In this quiz, spot the artist who put Romeo into a song lyric.

Jon Anderson of Yes

Jon Anderson of YesSongwriter Interviews

From the lake in "Roundabout" to Sister Bluebird in "Starship Trooper," Jon Anderson talks about how nature and spirituality play into his lyrics for Yes.

Stan Ridgway

Stan RidgwaySongwriter Interviews

Go beyond the Wall of Voodoo with this cinematic songwriter.

The Real Nick Drake

The Real Nick DrakeSong Writing

The head of Drake's estate shares his insights on the late folk singer's life and music.