River
David Byrne · Other Songs - David Byrne
I'm working in a restaurant
I make a decent wage
And I will sing into the microphone
The river rise up
And flows above the interstate
Beyond the schools and shops how far
There's no way to communicate
And the water's moving on
Beyond the lies and hypocrites
I'm thinking of a song
I need you to remember it
The forest is alive
It asks us to participate
We lifted up our eyes
To promise and reciprocate
We fell down on our knees
For every human being
One sad day, I will fly away
And one sad day, I will tip toe away
But a change is gonna come
Like Sam Cooke sang in '63
The river sings a song to me
On every St. Cecilia's day
So when I was reborn
I went back to the restaurant
The river's moving on from here
To sing it's crazy symphony
And I'll go home
Where you are right in front of me
About River
David Byrne's "River" stands as a defining track from his 1997 album *Feelings*, capturing the restless energy of the mid-nineties with its driving rhythm and introspective lyrics. As a central piece on this critically acclaimed record, the song exemplifies Byrne's signature blend of art rock sensibilities and pop accessibility, often featuring his distinctive vocal delivery and layered production techniques. The track reflects the era's fascination with urban isolation and personal reflection, themes that permeate the entire *Feelings* catalogue. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to function as both a standalone anthem and a cohesive element within the album's broader narrative, showcasing Byrne's continued evolution as a songwriter and performer well into the late 1990s.