Shenandoah
Van Morrison · Other Songs - Van Morrison
Look away, you rollin' river
Oh, Shenandoah, I long to hear
Look away, we're bound away
Across the wide Missouri.
Now the Missouri is a mighty river
Look away, you rollin' river
Indians camp a long her border
Look away, we're bound away
Across the wide Missouri.
Well, a white man loved an Indian maiden
Look away, you rollin' river
With notions his canoe was laden
Look away, we're bound away
Across the wide Missouri.
Shenandoah, I love your daughter
Look away, you rollin' river
It was for her I'd cross the water
Look away, we're bound away
Across the wide Missouri.
For seven long years I courted Sally
Look away, you rollin' river
Seven more years I longed to have her
Look away, we're bound away
Across the wide Missouri.
Well, it's fare-thee-well, my dear, I'm bound to leave you
Look away, you rollin' river
Shenandoah, I will not deceive you
Look away, we're bound away
Across the wide Missouri.
Shenandoah
Van Morrison's rendition of the traditional folk standard "Shenandoah" showcases his signature ability to reinterpret classic material through a soulful, blues-inflected lens. While the song predates his extensive discography, Morrison's delivery imbues the narrative with a sense of longing and spiritual depth characteristic of his broader body of work. This recording highlights his mastery of vocal phrasing and his capacity to elevate familiar melodies into intimate, personal statements. Situated within a career defined by genre-blending innovation, the track serves as a testament to his enduring connection to American folk traditions. It remains a compelling example of how his unique artistic vision can transform established songs into fresh, emotionally resonant experiences for listeners across generations.