River Man
Nick Drake
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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.
Struggling with River Man? Become a better singer in 30 days with these videos!
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.
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Album Details"River Man" is from Drake's debut album "Five Leaves Left," released in 1969.
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InspirationThe song was allegedly inspired by Nick Drake's childhood friend, Brian Wells.
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Song StructureUnlike most pop songs, "River Man" is in 5/4 time, which gives it an unusual rhythmic feel.
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Orchestral ArrangementThe song features a stunning string arrangement composed by Harry Robinson—a notable Scottish musician and composer.
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Song Theme"River Man" reflects on the passage of time and the transience of life. Its melancholy feel is characteristic of Drake's music.
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Critical Reception"River Man" is frequently hailed as one of Nick Drake's best works and is highly regarded by critics.
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LegacyThe song has had a lasting impact, influencing and being covered by various artists such as Brad Mehldau and Paul Weller.
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Notable PerformancesThe 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'.
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Recognition"River Man" was featured as one of "Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time" in 2021.
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Song MeaningSome interpret "River Man" as a metaphor for depression, a condition that Drake suffered from.
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Citation
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"River Man Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 12 Oct. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric-lf/393988/Nick+Drake/River+Man>.
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