The Riff Song
Mario Lanza · Other Songs - Mario Lanza
There comes a sound
It is the drum, drum, drum of hoof-beats in the sand.
Quiver with fear
If you are near
It is the thunder of the "Shadow" and his band.
And all who plunder learn to understand, to understand:
The cry of
Ho!
So we sing as we are riding
Ho!
It's a time you best be hiding Low,
It means the Riffs are abroad,
Go,
Before you've bitten the sword.
Ho!
That's the sound that comes to warn you.
So!
In the night or early morning, you know,
If you're the "Red Shadow's" foe,
The Riffs will strike with a blow,
That brings you woe.
Ho!
So we sing as we are riding
Ho!
It's a time you best be hiding Low,
It means the Riffs are abroad,
Go,
Before you've bitten the sword.
Ho!
That's the sound that comes to warn you.
So!
In the night or early morning, you know,
If you're the "Red Shadow's" foe,
The Riffs will strike with a blow,
That brings you woe.
The Riff Song
Mario Lanza's "The Riff Song" stands as a spirited example of his early vocal prowess, showcasing the operatic flair that defined his career. Recorded during a pivotal era for American pop opera, the track highlights Lanza's ability to blend classical technique with the rhythmic energy of popular music. As part of his extensive discography, this recording reflects the genre's unique fusion of theatrical performance and entertainment. The song captures the essence of Lanza's public persona, where his voice served as a bridge between the stage and the recording studio. It remains a notable song in his catalog, illustrating the enduring appeal of his style and the specific musical context of his performances during the mid-20th century.