River Runs Deep
J.J. Cale · Naturally [1971]
The river runs deep and the water is cold as ice
I go down there every chance I get
It's where my baby she met her death
And the river runs deep and the water's cold as ice
Ain't no woman gonna make a fool out of me
Ain't no woman gonna make a fool out of me
Running 'round, that's what they said
She's at the bottom of the river dead
And the river runs deep and the water's cold as ice
No cheating woman gonna get a good man down
No cheating woman gonna get a good man down
Running 'round like a silly fool
You're gonna end up at the bottom of the pool
And the river runs deep and the water's cold as ice
River Runs Deep
J.J. Cale's "River Runs Deep" stands as a cornerstone of his 1971 album, Naturally. The track exemplifies Cale's signature blend of bluesy guitar work and soulful vocals, characterized by a laid-back groove and introspective lyricism. Released during the height of his career, the recording captures the essence of his unique style, which seamlessly merges country, blues, and R&B influences. As a defining piece of his discography, the song has become a staple in the catalog of classic soul and roots music, influencing countless artists who followed in his footsteps. Its enduring appeal lies in its melodic simplicity and emotional depth, making it a timeless addition to any collection of great recordings from the early 1970s.