Rivers Of Babylon
Boney M · Magic Of
Yeah, we wept when we remembered Zion
By the rivers of Babylon where we sat down
Yeah, we wept when we remembered Zion
Then the wicked carried us away in captivity
Requiring from us a song
Now how shall we sing the Lord's song in a strange land
Then the wicked carried us away in captivity
Requiring from us a song
Now how shall we sing the Lord's song in a strange land
Let the words of our mouths
And the meditation of our hearts
Be acceptable in thy sight be tonight
Let the words of our mouths
And the meditation of our hearts
Be acceptable in thy sight be tonight
By the rivers of Babylon where we sat down
Yeah, we wept when we remembered Zion
By the rivers of Babylon where we sat down
There we wept when we remembered Zion
By the rivers of Babylon (got tears of Babylon)
Where we sat down (you gotta sing the song)
Yeah, we wept (sing a song of love)
When we remembered Zion
By the rivers of Babylon (got fits of Babylon)
Where we sat down (you hear the people cry)
There he wept (they need the power)
When he remembered Zion (ooh, got the power)
By the rivers of Babylon where we sat down
Yeah. there we wept....
Rivers Of Babylon - Boney M
Released in 1978, "Rivers Of Babylon" stands as a defining track in the disco-funk genre, propelled by the distinctive vocals of Freda Payne and the infectious rhythm section of Boney M. The song's title references the biblical story of the Tower of Babel, a theme that permeates the lyrics and the song's narrative arc. Its production features a signature string arrangement and a driving beat that became a staple of late 1970s dance floors. The recording appeared on the album "Magic Of," which showcased the group's ability to blend African rhythms with polished pop sensibilities. Despite its origins in a European studio, the track achieved global recognition, particularly in the United States, where it topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its enduring appeal lies in its melodic structure and the seamless fusion of cultural elements, making it a timeless example of the era's musical innovation.