The Meaning Behind The Song: The Riverboat Song by Ocean Colour Scene
Table of Contents
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Duration | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Riverboat Song | Ocean Colour Scene | Damon Minchella, Oscar Harrison, Simon Fowler & Steve Cradock | Moseley Shoals | February 5, 1996 | Rock, Britpop, Alternative Rock | – | Brendan Lynch |
“The Riverboat Song” is the lead single and opening track of Ocean Colour Scene’s second album, 1996’s Moseley Shoals. The song helped launch OCS into the mainstream, having been popularised by Chris Evans who used it extensively on the hit TV show, TFI Friday. It eventually reached No. 15 in the UK singles chart.
The song takes its main riff and many lyrics from Led Zeppelin’s “Four Sticks.” This integration of musical elements from Led Zeppelin adds depth and a familiar touch to the song, allowing Ocean Colour Scene to pay homage to their musical influences while creating their own unique sound.
Personally, “The Riverboat Song” holds a special place in my heart. As a teenager in the 90s, I was heavily influenced by the Britpop movement, and Ocean Colour Scene was one of my favorite bands at the time. Their soulful blend of rock and pop resonated with me, and their songs became the soundtrack to my adolescence.
When I first heard “The Riverboat Song,” I was immediately captivated by its infectious energy and catchy hooks. The opening riff drew me in, and Simon Fowler’s powerful vocals took the song to another level. It became one of those songs that I couldn’t help but sing along to, even if I didn’t quite understand the deeper meaning behind the lyrics.
Upon closer examination, “The Riverboat Song” reveals themes of duality and self-reflection. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a river running red, symbolizing a turbulent and conflicted state of mind. The river becomes a metaphor for the complexities of life and the internal struggles that we all face.
In the first verse, the lyrics describe seeing double and observing a riverboat swaying under the sun. This imagery sets the tone for the song, introducing the idea of conflicting perspectives and choices. The reference to a king stalking the wings and shooting a dove, only to free an eagle instead, signifies the struggle between selfishness and nobility, between chasing personal desires and doing what is right.
The pre-chorus emphasizes the cyclical nature of life and decisions, stating that it’s more or less the same as the things that were said. This repetition highlights the idea that history repeats itself, and we often find ourselves facing similar challenges and making similar choices.
In the second verse, the lyrics delve deeper into the consequences of our actions. The trouble up the road represents the aftermath of decisions made based on selfish desires, leading to the loss of love and a sense of cheating on one’s own soul. The best and worst thoughts that lose control reveal the inner turmoil that comes with conflicting desires and the struggle to find balance.
The chorus poses questions about the river not flowing and the river running red. These inquiries speak to a sense of frustration and confusion. Despite all the experiences and knowledge gained, the river remains stagnant and tainted. It raises existential questions about the purpose and meaning of life, and why despite our efforts, we often find ourselves stuck in repetitive patterns.
The third verse continues to explore the complexities of communication and the impact of our words. The failure to express oneself honestly becomes a source of trouble, symbolized by a king stalking the wings and shooting the moon and stars, representing unattainable goals and unrealized dreams.
As the song progresses, the message becomes clear – life is a continuous struggle, filled with contradictions and unanswered questions. We are often torn between conflicting desires, and despite our best efforts, we find ourselves trapped in cycles of repetition.
Yet, despite the underlying melancholy and introspection, “The Riverboat Song” remains an uplifting and anthemic track. Its infectious melody and powerful instrumentation create a sense of liberation and celebration, reminding us that even amidst the complexities of life, there is joy to be found.
In conclusion, “The Riverboat Song” by Ocean Colour Scene is a song that captures the essence of the human condition. It explores themes of duality, self-reflection, and the repetitive nature of life. It is a reminder that despite the challenges we face, there is always hope and a reason to keep moving forward. This song is a testament to the timeless power of music to touch our souls and provide comfort and understanding in times of uncertainty.
Explore More Song Meanings
About The Author
Christy Harris
Leave a comment cancel reply.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Meaning of The Riverboat Song by Ocean Colour Scene
The Riverboat Song
Ocean Colour Scene
Listen to the full song on Apple Music
"The Riverboat Song" by Ocean Colour Scene is a song that delves into themes of deception, dissatisfaction, and the struggle to find true happiness. The lyrics use vivid metaphors and imagery to convey the emotional turmoil experienced by the protagonist.
In the verses, the riverboat symbolizes a pathway or journey in life. The river running red represents a state of turmoil and conflict, while the king's actions of shooting a dove and setting an eagle free represent making choices that seem paradoxical or contradictory. This can be seen as a metaphor for the protagonist's struggle to find balance and make the right decisions in their own life.
The pre-chorus line, "It's more or less the same as the things that you said," suggests a sense of repetition and stagnation in the protagonist's experiences and relationships. They may feel stuck in a cycle of disappointment, not finding the fulfillment they seek.
The chorus poses questions about the river's color and lack of flow, using it as a metaphor for the protagonist's confusion and longing. It reflects their desire for change, resolution, and understanding. The repetition of these questions emphasizes the frustration and inner turmoil they feel.
In the third verse, the lyrics again touch on the protagonist's struggle to express themselves fully. The phrase "the things you fail to say" suggests a fear of revealing their true thoughts and emotions, which further contributes to their troubles and dissatisfaction.
Overall, "The Riverboat Song" explores the inner struggles we face in navigating relationships, making choices, and seeking fulfillment. It urges listeners to question and reflect upon the choices they make in their own lives and the impact these choices have on their overall happiness.
This meaning interpretation was written by AI. Help improve it with your feedback
More from this artist
40 Past Midnight
Fleeting Mind
Foxy’s Folk Faced
Trending this week
사랑으로 (Love.)
wave to earth
Speak Your Mind
Brandi Carlile
- Artists add
Ocean Colour Scene
Riverboat song, riverboat song lyrics.
Ask specific questions and get answers to unlock more indepth meanings & facts.
Add your song meanings, interpretations, facts, memories & more to the community.
It could mean: I see two riverboats ( parts of yourself )...is where the river runs red (you’re just hurting yourself if you keep on separate these parts of yourself). “Anyway for all the things you know tell me why does the river not flow Anyway for all the things you said tell me why does the river run red Anyway for all the things you've seen tell me when will the river run green” You should understand/tell me why does the river not flow/runs red before you can make that river run green. If you don’t try to cope the reason why you’re doing this to yourself (I see double) you’ll found out to be what you promised yourself you’ll never be (that’s my trouble). It reminds me of J.S.Mill “..Over himself, over his own body and mind, the individual is sovereign."
This song became famous when used as the theme song for Chris evan's TFI Friday. Its a superb song but i always feel a bit sick when i hear it as i remember this was their opening song when i saw them live at a festival, i got so badly crushed by all the crazy fans that i was in tears. It was great fun though!!!
Why is no one posting about this song?!! Its AMAZING!! havent got a clue wot it means tho, only bad thing is most people associate with chris evans now! GIIINNNNNGGGEEEERRRR!!!!
I'm with scouseluke, awesome band and a great riff.
I reckon this band singer thinks he's Lennon, fair bit of similarity in voice and singing styles. Pretty cool band.
Riverboat Song Cast and Crew
Popular movies.
Movie Reviews
Follow Moviefone
Latest trailers.
Not Available
Oh no! Turner Classic Movies isn't available in your region.
Welcome, DISH customer! Please note that we cannot save your viewing history due to an arrangement with DISH.
Watchlist and resume progress features have been disabled.
Classic Riverboat Songs
Various artists.
STREAM OR BUY:
Sign Up or Log In to Set Your Streaming Service
User Reviews
Track listing, similar albums.
Top 50 by Year
Lists Explorer
100 Most Featured Movie Songs
100 Most Featured TV Songs
Leon Bridges
Heard in the following movies & tv shows
Shots Fired • s 1 e 10
Lucifer • s 4 e 8
All American • s 1 e 9
Black Lightning • s 3 e 16
Saturday Night Live • s 41 e 7
NCIS: Los Angeles • s 12 e 15
Suits • s 5 e 10
New Amsterdam • s 1 e 14
Big Little Lies • s 1 e 2
Been traveling these wide roads for so long My heart's been far from you Ten-thousand miles gone Oh, I wanna come near and give ya Every part of me But there is blood on my hands And my lips aren't clean In my darkness I remember Momma's words reoccur to me "Surrender to the good Lord And he'll wipe your slate clean" Take me to your river I wanna go Oh, go on Take me to your river I wanna know Tip me in your smooth waters I go in As a man with many crimes Come up for air As my sins flow down the Jordan Oh, I wanna come near and give ya Every part of me But there is blood on my hands And my lips aren't clean Take me to your river I wanna go Go on Take me to your river I wanna know I wanna go, wanna go, wanna go I wanna know, wanna know, wanna know Wanna go, wanna go, wanna go Wanna know, wanna know, wanna know Wanna go, wanna go, wanna go Wanna know, wanna know, wanna know Take me to your river I wanna go Lord, please let me know Take me to your river I wanna know
More songs from Leon Bridges
Lisa Sawyer
Coming Home
Ball of Confusion
You Don't Know
Bad Bad News
Whitey on the Moon
Chrome Cowgirl (From Twisters: The Album)
That Was Yesterday
If It Feels Good (Then It Must Be)
Smooth Sailin'
Release Year
WhatSong is the worlds largest collection of movie & tv show soundtracks and playlists.
© 2024 WhatSong Soundtracks. All rights reserved
Quick links
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
The Riverboat Song was a hit for Ocean Colour Scene in 1996, the year that Euro 96 was held in England.Subscribe: http://bit.ly/WdJ36uLike us on Facebook: ht...
Best of Ocean Colour Scene: https://goo.gl/f9LkNJSubscribe here: https://goo.gl/kgk255Music video by Ocean Colour Scene performing The Riverboat Song. (C) 19...
"The Riverboat Song" is a song by British band Ocean Colour Scene. It is heavily influenced by Led Zeppelin's "Four Sticks", from which it takes its main riff and a number of lyrics. [citation needed] The song is written in 64 time. [1]The single was popularised by Radio 1 DJ Chris Evans, who played it frequently on his radio shows and to introduce guests on his television programme TFI Friday.
Show Boat is a 1951 Technicolor film based on the musical by Jerome Kern (music) and Oscar Hammerstein II (script and lyrics) and the novel by Edna Ferber.Fi...
Tell me why does the river run red. And anyway for all the things you've seen. Tell me when will the river run green. And anyway for all the things you know. Tell me why does the river not flow ...
"The Riverboat Song" is the lead single and opening track of Ocean Colour Scene's second album, 1996's Moseley Shoals. The song helped launch OCS into the mainstream, having been popularised by Chris Evans who used it extensively on the hit TV show, TFI Friday. It eventually reached No. 15 in the UK singles chart.
Ocean Colour Scene. "The Riverboat Song" by Ocean Colour Scene is a song that delves into themes of deception, dissatisfaction, and the struggle to find true happiness. The lyrics use vivid metaphors and imagery to convey the emotional turmoil experienced by the protagonist. In the verses, the riverboat symbolizes a pathway or journey in life.
The Riverboat Song was a hit for Ocean Colour Scene in 1996, the year that Euro 96 was held in England. Subscribe: http://bit.ly/WdJ36u Like us on Facebook...
Riverboat Song Lyrics & Meanings: The Riverboat Song / / I see double up ahead / Where the riverboat swayed beneath the sun / Is where the river runs red / Like a King who stalks the wings and shoots a dove / And frees an eagle instead / It's more or less the same as the things that you said / / ÊI see trouble up the road / Like the things you found in love are by the way / And like to cheat ...
Visit the movie page for 'Riverboat Song' on Moviefone. Discover the movie's synopsis, cast details and release date. Watch trailers, exclusive interviews, and movie review. Your guide to this ...
Meet the talented cast and crew behind 'Riverboat Song' on Moviefone. Explore detailed bios, filmographies, and the creative team's insights. Dive into the heart of this movie through its stars ...
About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features NFL Sunday Ticket Press Copyright ...
A ragtag troupe of animated characters—three rats, a young boy, an alligator, and two horses—engage with the viewer in a series of vignettes. By turns surreal, deadpan, and mischievous, Riverboat Song combines computer-animated vignettes and found video clips with pop soundtracks and a monologue voiced by the artist.
Show Boat, the story of life on a Mississippi riverboat, began as a novel by Edna Ferber in 1926. It was made into a Broadway musical by Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein II the following year, and a part-talkie film with a prologue of music from the show, in 1929. There were two versions of the musical, in 1936 and in 1951.
The Riverboat Song, a Single by Ocean Colour Scene. Released 5 February 1996 on MCA (catalog no. MCD 40021; CD). Genres: Britpop, Mod Revival. ... lists community. Close. Search: Music Film for: New Music Genres Charts Lists Community. The Riverboat Song By Ocean Colour Scene..... Artist: Ocean Colour Scene : Type: Single: Released: 5 February ...
The Riverboat Song. " The Riverboat Song " is a 1996 song by British band Ocean Colour Scene. It was taken from their second studio album Moseley Souls. It went to number 15 in the United Kingdom, number 13 in Scotland and number 37 in New Zealand where it was a moderate hit single there.
The Riverboat Song, a Single by Ocean Colour Scene. Released 5 February 1996 on MCA (catalog no. MCD 40021; CD). Genres: Britpop, Mod Revival. Featured peformers: Brendan Lynch (producer), Martin Hayes (engineer), Paul Weller (organ), Lord Anthony Mark Briggs (photography), Ocean Colour Scene (producer, songwriter), Gerard Saint (sleeve, design).
From Showboat's 2nd version (1936) Paul Robeson - Ol' Man RiverOl' Man River (Jerome Kern - Oscar Hammerstein II)Lyrics from the Original Libretto Dare's an ...
Album. Better Day. Ocean Colour Scene. Released. 1997 — UK. CD —. Single. Explore the tracklist, credits, statistics, and more for The Riverboat Song by Ocean Colour Scene. Compare versions and buy on Discogs.
The song is off of the soundtrack to the movie "Oh Brother Where Art Thou." The soundtrack is an integral part of the movie. The album was actually recorded before filming the movie. The song, also called "Down to the River to Pray," "Down in the Valley to Pray," "The Good Old Way," and "Come, Let Us All Go Down," is a traditional American song.
Classic Riverboat Songs by Various Artists. Find album reviews, track lists, credits, awards and more at AllMusic.
Los Ocean Colour Scene forman parte de la expansión del brit pop junto a Oasis, Blur y Suede entre otros aunque, quizá, con menos popularidad. "The riverboat...
Been traveling these wide roads for so long My heart's been far from you Ten-thousand miles gone Oh, I wanna come near and give ya Every part of me But there is blood on my hands And my lips aren't clean In my darkness I remember Momma's words reoccur to me "Surrender to the good Lord And he'll wipe your slate clean" Take me to your river I wanna go Oh, go on Take me to your river I wanna know ...