Up Against The Rain

Nanci Griffith · The Loving Kind [2009]

You ran up against the rain everyday of your short life

Suffered for your muse without complaining

Never heard you swear life isn't fair but it doesn't make it right

You left the world knowing all too well what pain is



You took it on yourself to pave the road to hell

Paid your dues and sang the blues, Lord, you knew them all too well

Every word upon the page, you let them sail away

The wind would blow and then you'd go up against the rain



You listened to the songs and then you wrote your own

Somewhere along the way you passed the muse along

I feel your presence in this room beneath the waning moon

It's good to know that dying couldn't tame you



You took it on yourself to pave the road to hell

Paid your dues and sang the blues, Lord, you knew them all too well

Every word upon the page, you let them sail away

The wind would blow and then you'd go up against the rain



Last night the weather turned, this morning we had snow

Today they'll lay you in the ground

Someday we'll all know where it is we go

My tears will say goodbye while the rain is coming down



You took it on yourself to pave the road to hell

Paid your dues and sang the blues, Lord, you knew them all too well

Every word upon the page, you let them sail away

The wind would blow and then you'd go up against the rain

The wind would blow and then you'd go up against the rain

Up Against The Rain

Nanci Griffith's "Up Against The Rain" appears on her 2009 album, The Loving Kind. The track exemplifies her signature blend of acoustic storytelling and folk-rock sensibilities, characterized by her distinctive vocal delivery and intricate guitar work. Released during a period where Griffith continued to explore themes of resilience and personal narrative, the song reflects her established reputation for crafting intimate, character-driven ballads. As part of her broader discography, the recording maintains the lyrical depth and melodic complexity that have defined her career since the 1970s. The composition serves as a testament to her ability to weave atmospheric soundscapes with poignant lyrics, resonating within the contemporary folk revival while honoring her roots in traditional American roots music.