Cruising Down the River
Russ Morgan & His Orchestra Lyrics


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Cruising down the river on a Sunday afternoon
With one you love, the sun above waiting for the moon
The old accordion playing a sentimental tune
Cruising down the river on a Sunday afternoon
The birds above all sing of love, a gentle sweet refrain
The winds around all make a sound like softly falling rain
Just two of us together, we'll plan a honeymoon
Cruising down the river on a Sunday afternoon




Overall Meaning

The song "Cruising Down the River" was written by composer Eily Beadell and lyrics by Nell Tollerton. It was first recorded in 1945 by the Russ Morgan Orchestra and became a hit, staying at number one on the Billboard charts for eight weeks. The song has been covered by several artists, including Blue Barron, Patti Page, and Frankie Carle.


The lyrics of the song speak about two lovers who are cruising down a river on a Sunday afternoon. They are enjoying the sunshine and waiting for the moon to rise. The old accordion is playing a sentimental tune, adding to the romantic atmosphere of the moment. As they sail down the river, the birds sing songs of love, and the gentle winds create a soothing sound like softly falling rain. The lovers plan to go on a honeymoon together, and the song captures their feelings of joy and togetherness.


The song has a nostalgic and romantic tone, capturing the essence of a simpler time when people used to go on leisurely boat rides with their loved ones. The lyrics are poetic, using imagery to describe the beauty of nature and the warmth of the couple's love. The accordion music adds to the sentimental feel of the song, evoking a sense of longing and romanticism.


Overall, "Cruising Down the River" is a timeless classic that captures the essence of romance and nostalgia. Its poetic lyrics, soothing music, and elegant melody make it a perfect song for a lazy Sunday afternoon with your loved one.


Line by Line Meaning

Cruising down the river on a Sunday afternoon
We're calmly sailing down this river on a lazy Sunday afternoon.


With one you love, the sun above waiting for the moon
I'm enjoying the company of my beloved, admiring the shining sun as we wait for the moon to take its place.


The old accordion playing a sentimental tune
An old accordion is playing a nostalgic melody that brings back memories and emotions.


The birds above all sing of love, a gentle sweet refrain
The birds are chirping love songs, creating a soothing and harmonious environment.


The winds around all make a sound like softly falling rain
The gentle winds sound like soft raindrops, adding to the serene atmosphere.


Just two of us together, we'll plan a honeymoon
As we cruise on this river, my partner and I are discussing our plans and dreams for our future honeymoon.


Cruising down the river on a Sunday afternoon
This line repeats to emphasize the peaceful and relaxing nature of this leisurely activity.




Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: EILY BEADELL, NELLIE TOLLERTON

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@tammymackay-oxner7062

My dad used to sing this when I was a kid whenever we would go canoeing. Now I have finally heard the song I still sing today everytime I am out enjoying the water. Nice!

@sweetiepie1372

My dad, born 1922, used to zoom us up and down the bath when he was bathing us, singing this. 😁

@leonardguerette688

Have loved this song since first hearing it in the early 1950s at my aunt's home. Great song!!! LRG

@davidsayre8897

My Dad grew up along the Ohio River. He loved this song

@johnderby8921

A great old tune done very nicely! NH

@andrewrobles7440

Reminds me of a carnival for some reason which is perfect :)

@margiemathias1153

I grew up in the 1940s this was song I got to know when I was about 10 in Malaya as it was known then. Later Malaysia. Still love it. Now in Canada

@emilie-kh9yx

The youngest here. I’m a fan of the old music. Wish I lived in around the 1950s (I’m born 2007, the time today is confusing)

@martinklussendorf2629

Nice old song. Beautifull.

@kaichan9314

First heard this tune in BBC TV series Singing Detective in late '80s.

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