 At times Kiedis has also resented singing the song , especially during instances when he felt distanced from the song 's lyrics . In the past few years , however , Kiedis has experienced a revival in interest : " Although there have been times when I was over [ ' Under the Bridge ' ] , I 've rediscovered it and now I feel close to it and it still has power , and life , and purpose as a song . " Frusciante believed the flexibility of " Under the Bridge " has contributed to its success : " A lot of the time that is one of the ingredients of a hit ; you can hear it over and over and it will still always mean new things , but you do go through cycles . " Flea believes the reason " Under the Bridge " had a recent revival in relevancy was due to Frusciante 's return to the band from 1998 – 2009 after quitting in 1992 . Flea believed it was vital to have the four members who wrote the track together . 
