About the song
The Grass Roots’ “The River Is Wide” is a poignant and beautifully crafted song that highlights the band’s talent for delivering emotionally resonant music. Released in 1969, this track stands out as a significant part of The Grass Roots’ discography, reflecting their distinctive sound and lyrical depth during that era.
Written by the acclaimed songwriting duo Tony Macaulay and Roger Cook, “The River Is Wide” delves into themes of love and longing with a reflective and heartfelt tone. The song’s lyrics poetically describe the emotional distance and challenges in a relationship, likening these feelings to a wide and flowing river. The Grass Roots, led by Rob Grill’s emotive vocals, bring this narrative to life with a gentle melody and harmonious arrangement that perfectly complement the song’s contemplative mood.
Upon its release, “The River Is Wide” achieved notable success on the charts. It climbed to No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking a high point for The Grass Roots and reinforcing their presence in the pop music scene of the late 1960s. The song’s chart performance underscored the band’s ability to connect with a wide audience through their compelling music and relatable themes.
While “The River Is Wide” did not receive specific awards, its enduring appeal is evident in its continued popularity among fans and its frequent appearance on oldies radio stations and classic pop compilations. The song remains a beloved classic, cherished for its lyrical beauty and melodic sophistication.
For those who appreciate classic pop and rock with emotional depth, “The River Is Wide” by The Grass Roots is a must-listen. It showcases the band’s talent for blending heartfelt lyrics with engaging melodies, standing as a testament to their contribution to the music of the late 1960s. This track continues to resonate with listeners, offering a timeless reflection on love and the challenges that come with it.
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Lyrics
The sky was clear on that windy day
‘Til the clear blue sky began to turn to gray
The lightning flashed, the thunder roared above
Then fell a drop of rain to start our love
Let the river get wide, the river gets long, now
The water runs deep as our love gets strong now
So baby don’t you fight and say you belong now to me…
Upon the roof we heard the gentle rain
Wth the rhythm of our heartbeats down it came
As it hit each rock our hearts could feel the pain
No one on earth can stop a drop of rain
And the river get wide, the river gets long, now
The water runs deep as our love gets strong now
So baby don’t you fight and say you belong now to me…
Let the river get wide, the river gets long, now
The water runs deep as our love gets strong now
So baby don’t you fight and say you belong now to me, yea
Let the river get wide, the river gets long, now
The water runs deep as our love gets strong now
So baby don’t you fight and say you belong now to me
Let the river gets wide, the river gets long, now