Mr. Shame
Mike Oldfield · Heaven's Open [1991]
I'm calling your name, Mr. Shame.
There is no doubt,
You need to find out
About the river,
But there's no covert scheme
To help you find your dream
To the river.
Down to the river.
Was this all some cry for love?
It's a cry for love.
Down to the river.
Are you a victim of that money bug
In your blood?
[ Chorus ]
Mr. Shame. Get down to the river!
Mr. Shame. I know you ache.
Mr. Shame. So come down to the river.
The river of love. Don't hesitate.
There's no mean devise
Or key to Paradise
To the river.
No price you can pay
To help you find your way
To the river.
Down to the river.
Is this all some cry for love?
It's a cry for love.
Down to the river.
Don't tell me you're a victim of that money bug
In your blood!
[ Repeat Chorus ]
Down to the river.
Is this all some cry for love?
It's a cry for love.
Down to the river.
Don't tell me you're a victim of that money bug
In your blood!
[ Repeat Chorus ]
[ Repeat Chorus ]
[ Repeat Chorus ]
[ Repeat Chorus ]
Mr. Shame
Mr. Shame stands as a notable track from Mike Oldfield's 1991 album, Heaven's Open. During this period, Oldfield was exploring a more accessible, pop-oriented sound that contrasted with the complex, instrumental textures of his earlier instrumental epics. The song reflects the artist's willingness to embrace direct songwriting structures while maintaining his signature melodic sensibilities. Heaven's Open marked a significant shift in his discography, moving away from the purely progressive rock foundations that defined his initial success. This recording captures Oldfield's evolving approach to composition, blending traditional rock instrumentation with the atmospheric layers characteristic of his broader body of work. The track remains an essential component of his early nineties output, showcasing his continued ability to craft memorable melodies within a contemporary framework.