Down By The River
The Urban Voodoo Machine Lyrics


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(Oh yeah) I'll be down by the river
Waiting for the good Lord to pass my way
(Oh yeah) I'll be down by the river
Singing songs of joy on this lovely day
(Oh yeah)

Three singing birds told me
By sunrise he's always there in the morning
Praying And blessing the day

I heard about this little tale long time ago
But never had the faith to believe in my soul (yeah)
Now mother sent to me three little birds
Singing a son convincing me it was so
Now I'm on my way
Anyone come to see me this day
Tell them I'll be gone for the day

(Oh yeah) I'll be down by the river
Waiting for the good Lord to pass my way
(Oh yeah) I'll be down by the river
Singing songs of joy on this lovely day
(Oh yeah)

I heard about this little tale long time ago
But never had the faith to believe in my soul (yeah)
Now mother sent to me three little birds
Singing a son convincing me it was so
Now I'm on my way
Anyone come to see me this day
Tell them I'll be gone for the day

(Oh yeah) I'll be down by the river
Waiting for the good Lord to pass my way
(Oh yeah) I'll be down by the river




Singing songs of joy on this lovely day
(Oh yeah)

Overall Meaning

The song "Down By the River" by The Urban Voodoo Machine is a contemplative and spiritual tune that communicates the artist's desire to connect with a higher power in a serene setting. The artist plans to be down by the river waiting for the good Lord to pass by, singing songs of joy on a beautiful day. The lyrics also reveal that the artist's faith was not strong enough to believe in this tale, but that changed when three singing birds confirmed its truth. The birds represent a sign from the divine, leading the artist to believe that they should go down to the river to spend time in prayer and contemplation.


The use of the river in the song represents a place of solace and peace. In Christianity, the river is often associated with baptism and rebirth, symbolizing the washing away of sins and renewal of one's spirit. The good Lord passing by also signifies the possibility of a spiritual encounter or revelation. The lyrics also suggest that the artist is taking a break from the world and its demands, seeking respite and an opportunity for reflection.


In summary, "Down By the River" is a song about seeking spirituality and peace, finding solace in nature, and experiencing an encounter with the divine. It speaks to the artist's personal journey of faith, and the need for a time of quiet contemplation.


Line by Line Meaning

(Oh yeah) I'll be down by the river
I am going to the river


Waiting for the good Lord to pass my way
Hoping to encounter God


(Oh yeah) I'll be down by the river
I am going to the river


Singing songs of joy on this lovely day
Expressing my happiness through music


(Oh yeah)
Emotional emphasis


Three singing birds told me
Three birds gave me a message


By sunrise he's always there in the morning
God is always present in the morning


Praying And blessing the day
Religious ritual to express gratitude to God for a new day


I heard about this little tale long time ago
I was told this story a while back


But never had the faith to believe in my soul (yeah)
But I lacked the faith to believe it


Now mother sent to me three little birds
Now my mother has sent me three birds


Singing a son convincing me it was so
They sang a song to convince me


Now I'm on my way
Now I am headed to the river


Anyone come to see me this day
If anyone comes looking for me


Tell them I'll be gone for the day
Let them know I will be away




Contributed by Reagan O. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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