Down By The Riverside
The Million Dollar Quartet (Elvis Presley Carl Perkins Jerry-Lee Lewis Johnny Cash) Lyrics
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Down by the riverside, down by the riverside
I'm gonna lay down my burden, down by the riverside,
I'm gonna study war no more
I ain't a gonna study war no more, I ain't a gonna study war no more
I ain't a gonna study war no more, I ain't a gonna study war no more
I ain't a gonna study war no more, I ain't a gonna study war no more
Well, I'm gonna put on my long white robe, (Where?) down by the riverside (Oh)
Down by the riverside, down by the riverside
I'm gonna put on my long white robe, (Where?) down by the riverside
I'm gonna study war no more
I ain't a gonna study war no more, I ain't a gonna study war no more
I ain't a gonna study war no more, I ain't a gonna study war no more
I ain't a gonna study war no more, I ain't a gonna study war no more
Well, I'm gonna lay down my sword and shield, (Where?) down by the riverside
Down by the riverside, down by the riverside
I'm gonna lay down my sword and shield, (A-ha) down by the riverside
I'm gonna study war no more
I ain't a gonna study war no more, I ain't a gonna study war no more
I ain't a gonna study war no more, I ain't a gonna study war no more
I ain't a gonna study war no more, I ain't a gonna study war no more
The Million Dollar Quartet's song "Down By The Riverside" is a traditional gospel song that has been covered by many musicians over the years. The lyrics speak of laying down burdens, putting on a long white robe, and laying down a sword and shield, all in the context of the singer having had enough of war and violence. The repetition of the phrase "I ain't a gonna study war no more" reinforces this message and suggests a desire for peace.
The concept of laying down burdens and relinquishing violence is rooted in Christianity and the idea of salvation. The mention of a long white robe is also significant, as it is often used to symbolize purity and righteousness. By putting on this robe, the singer is committing to a life of peace and non-violence.
Overall, "Down By The Riverside" is a powerful statement against war and violence, delivered through the medium of traditional gospel music.
Line by Line Meaning
I'm gonna lay down my burden, down by the riverside, Down by the riverside, down by the riverside
I will release all of my heavy burdens and troubles and seek peace next to the riverbank.
I'm gonna study war no more, I ain't a gonna study war no more
I have decided to abandon the idea of learning or engaging in warfare, and instead seek peace.
Well, I'm gonna put on my long white robe, (Where?) down by the riverside (Oh) Down by the riverside, down by the riverside
I will dress myself in my pure, long white robe and seek solace next to the riverbank.
Well, I'm gonna lay down my sword and shield, (Where?) down by the riverside Down by the riverside, down by the riverside
I am surrendering my weapons and defenses, finding safety and calmness in the peaceful surroundings of the riverbank.
I ain't a gonna study war no more, I ain't a gonna study war no more
I have chosen to live a life free from violence and conflict, and will not participate in any future war efforts.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Universal Music Publishing Group, IMAGEM MUSIC INC
Written by: AMOS SWEETS, REVEREND HORATIO DUNCAN
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind