River Man

Nick Drake

About River Man

"River Man" is the second listed song from Nick Drake's 1969 album Five Leaves Left. According to Drake's manager, Joe Boyd, Drake thought of the song as the centre piece of the album. In 2004 the song was remastered and released as a 7" vinyl and as enhanced CD single including a video to the song by Tim Pope.


Year:
1994
4:20
165 
#1

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Betty came by on her way
Said she had a word to say
About things today
And fallen leaves.

Said she hadn't heard the news
Hadn't had the time to choose
A way to lose
But she believes.

Going to see the river man
Going to tell him all I can
About the plan
For lilac time.

If he tells me all he knows
About the way his river flows
And all night shows
In summertime.

Betty said she prayed today
For the sky to blow away
Or maybe stay
She wasn't sure.

For when she thought of summer rain
Calling for her mind again
She lost the pain
And stayed for more.

Going to see the river man
Going to tell him all I can
About the ban
On feeling free.

If he tells me all he knows
About the way his river flows
I don't suppose
It's meant for me.

Oh, how they come and go
Oh, how they come and go.

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Nick Drake

Nicholas Rodney "Nick" Drake (19 June 1948 – 25 November 1974) was an English singer-songwriter and musician, known for his gentle guitar-based songs. He failed to find a wide audience during his lifetime but his work has gradually achieved wider notice and recognition. Drake signed to Island Records when he was 20 years old and a student at the University of Cambridge, and released his debut album, Five Leaves Left, in 1969. By 1972, he had recorded two more albums—Bryter Layter and Pink Moon. Neither sold more than 5,000 copies on initial release. Drake's reluctance to perform live, or be interviewed, contributed to his lack of commercial success. more »

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Written by: EMILY DICKINSON, NICK DRAKE

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, RESERVOIR MEDIA MANAGEMENT INC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


11 facts about this song

Artist Information
"River Man" is a song performed by English singer-songwriter Nick Drake. His music gained significant posthumous recognition in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Album Details
"River Man" is from Drake's debut album "Five Leaves Left," released in 1969.
Inspiration
The song was allegedly inspired by Nick Drake's childhood friend, Brian Wells.
Song Structure
Unlike most pop songs, "River Man" is in 5/4 time, which gives it an unusual rhythmic feel.
Orchestral Arrangement
The song features a stunning string arrangement composed by Harry Robinson—a notable Scottish musician and composer.
Song Theme
"River Man" reflects on the passage of time and the transience of life. Its melancholy feel is characteristic of Drake's music.
Critical Reception
"River Man" is frequently hailed as one of Nick Drake's best works and is highly regarded by critics.
Legacy
The song has had a lasting impact, influencing and being covered by various artists such as Brad Mehldau and Paul Weller.
Notable Performances
The song was played as part of the soundtrack in several films and TV series episodes, including the 2007 film 'Reign Over Me' and Hulu series 'Casual'.
Recognition
"River Man" was featured as one of "Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time" in 2021.
Song Meaning
Some interpret "River Man" as a metaphor for depression, a condition that Drake suffered from.

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