Tear
Red Hot Chili Peppers · By The Way
this is my tear
I can see clearly now
that this is not a place
for playing solitaire
tell me where you want me
this is my time
this is my tear
Coming on strong
Baudelaire
seems to me like
all the world gets high
when you take a dare
let it rise before you
this is my crime
All in all and I'm
loving every rise and fall
the sun will make and I will take
breath to be sure of this
in the end
all will be forgiven when
surrender rises high and I
gave what I came to give
say it now because you never know
Devil may cry devil may care
distiller's got a scream
and now I know just why
when she's moving air
can you feel the voltage
this is my time
California skies
got room to spare
this is my time
Chorus
Take it outside
take it out there
seems to me like
all the world gets high
when you take a dare
in the final moment
this is my time
Chorus
Tear
Tear stands as a defining track from the Red Hot Chili Peppers' 2002 album By The Way, marking a significant shift in the band's sonic landscape. Moving away from the funk-driven rhythms that characterized their earlier work, the song embraces a melodic, alternative rock approach that highlights John Frusciante's intricate guitar work and Anthony Kiedis's introspective songwriting. The recording captures the band's evolution during a period of heightened emotional depth and polished production. As part of a critically acclaimed album, the track exemplifies the group's ability to blend accessible pop sensibilities with their signature rock energy. It remains a staple in their discography, showcasing the versatility that has sustained their long-term influence on modern rock music.