Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground

The White Stripes

About Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground

"Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground" is a song by American garage rock band The White Stripes, featured on their 2001 third studio album White Blood Cells. Written and produced by vocalist and guitarist Jack White, "Dead Leaves" was released as the third single from the album in August 2002, charting at number 19 on the US Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and number 25 on the UK Singles Chart.


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Dead leaves and the dirty ground
When I know you're not around
Shiny tops and soda pops
When I hear your lips make a sound
When I hear your lips make a sound

Thirty notes in the mailbox
Will tell that I'm coming home
And I think I'm gonna stick around
For a while so you're not alone
For a while so you're not alone

If you can hear a piano fall
You can hear me coming down the hall
If I could just hear your pretty voice
I don't think I need to see ya at all
I don't think I need to see ya at all

Soft hair and a velvet tongue
I want to give you what you give to me
And every breath that is in your lungs
Is a tiny little gift to me
Is a tiny little gift to me

I didn't feel so bad till the sun went down
Then I come home
No one to wrap my arms around
Wrap my arms around

Well any man with a microphone
Can tell you what he loves the most
And you know why you love at all
If you're thinking of the holy ghost
If you're thinking of the holy ghost

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The White Stripes

The White Stripes was an American rock duo, formed in 1997 in Detroit, Michigan. The group consisted of drummer Meg White (drums and occasional vocals) and songwriter Jack White (vocals, guitar, and keyboards). Meg and Jack White were previously married to each other, but are now divorced. After releasing several singles and three albums within the Detroit music scene, the White Stripes rose to prominence in 2002, as part of the garage rock revival scene. Their successful and critically acclaimed albums White Blood Cells and Elephant drew them attention from a large variety of media outlets in the United States and the United Kingdom, with the single "Seven Nation Army" and its now-iconic guitar riff becoming a huge hit. The band recorded a further two albums… more »

4 fans

Written by: Jack White

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Album
"Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground" is the opening track on The White Stripes' third studio album, 'White Blood Cells', released in 2001.
Lyrics
The song, written by band members Jack and Meg White, is noted for its poetic lyrics that deal with themes of love, longing, and heartache.
Genre
The White Stripes are known for their blend of rock subgenres, and "Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground" is no exception - it combines elements of punk, garage rock, and blues.
Music Video
The music video of the song features Jack return to his home to find a ghostly version of himself, played by Meg, performing household chores and generally living inside the home.
Performance
The band performed "Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground" numerous times in live concerts, proving to be a favorite among fans.
Chart Performance
Although it did not reach the top of the charts, the song did manage to gain significant airplay on alternative radio stations and even peaked at number 19 on the U.S. Alternative Songs Billboard.
Critical Reception
The song received positive reviews from music critics. The garage rock sound of the song was particularly highlighted and praised.
Song Meaning
Jack White has described the song as a heartfelt commentary on the pain of love lost and the emptiness that follows.
Cover versions
Several cover versions of "Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground" have been produced by artists worldwide due to its popularity and emotional impact.
Live performances
This song was often the opening track for The White Stripes' live performances. Its energetic guitar riff and loud drums make a striking opening number. This is showcased in their live Under Blackpool Lights DVD.
Song composition
It is particularly noted for its dynamic structure, alternating between quiet, reflective verses, and loud, distorted choruses. This creates a back-and-forth tension that compliments the emotional lyrics of heartbreak and despair.
Music Influence
"Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground" continues to inspire musicians today, solidifying The White Stripes' place in rock history. It is often cited by contemporary rock bands as a key influence in their own music.

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