Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: funk
Song Meaning of “River Man” by Lee Ritenour
Sometimes life can feel like an overwhelming burden, as if you’ll never seethe light at the end of the tunnel. Lee Ritenour’s River Man speaks to this dark feeling – when you want to find relief, but don’t know where to turn.
A “river man” is called on for help: the protagonist begs for permission to “come and go” – hoping to find a way out of their despair. They are seeking a guide to steer them clear of their drowning pain, and light the path out of the storm.
Though the lyrics connote sadness and fear, the melody is a soothing balm calling forth hope and resilience. The chorus is a gentle reminder that, no matter what life throws at you, the road of salvation may be difficult, but it is out there. Despite the hard times, the “river man” will take you to peace, and lead you out of the darkness.