“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
When I think about classic country music that transcends generations, one of the first bands that come to mind is The Oak Ridge Boys. Their blend of traditional harmonies and modern sounds has a way of sticking with you. One of their hits, “Gonna Take A Lot Of River,” captures that enduring quality. It’s a song that you can hear once and feel like you’ve known it forever—just like a river that’s been carving through the landscape for centuries, shaping everything in its path.
About The Composition
- Title: Gonna Take A Lot Of River
- Composer: Mark Henley and John Kurhajetz
- Premiere Date: 1988
- Album/Opus/Collection: Monongahela (1988)
- Genre: Country
Background
Released in 1988, “Gonna Take A Lot Of River” was a hit single for The Oak Ridge Boys, featured on their album Monongahela. The song became their 12th number one hit on the country charts, solidifying their place as one of country music’s most beloved groups. Written by Mark Henley and John Kurhajetz, the song is a heartfelt anthem about love, perseverance, and the idea that some things take time to heal and grow—just like a river.
The song came at a time when The Oak Ridge Boys were already household names in country music, having successfully transitioned from their gospel roots to a more mainstream country sound. It was released during a period when their music was a staple on country radio, and it resonated with audiences for its down-to-earth lyrics and catchy melody.
Musical Style
“Gonna Take A Lot Of River” is rooted in the classic country genre, with the strong harmonies that are a signature of The Oak Ridge Boys. The song opens with a steady, rhythmic guitar line, laying the groundwork for the smooth vocals that follow. The instrumentation is simple yet effective—guitars, drums, and a touch of bass, all working together to create a sound that is both comforting and uplifting. The key element of the song is the four-part harmony, which The Oak Ridge Boys are famous for. Their voices blend seamlessly, creating a rich, full sound that elevates the song’s emotional core.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Gonna Take A Lot Of River” speak to themes of love, redemption, and endurance. The central metaphor of the river represents the passage of time and the effort required to overcome challenges and build something meaningful. The line, “It’s gonna take a lot of river to wash these blues away,” suggests that healing and moving forward is a process, much like a river’s slow but steady journey.
The song’s chorus is anthemic and easy to sing along with, which likely contributed to its popularity. The simplicity of the lyrics is where the magic lies—they’re relatable and heartfelt, making it a song that listeners can connect with on a personal level.
Performance History
“Gonna Take A Lot Of River” was performed widely after its release, becoming a staple of The Oak Ridge Boys’ live shows. It topped the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1988, marking another milestone in the band’s illustrious career. Over the years, the song has been covered by various artists and remains a beloved piece in the band’s catalog, often eliciting enthusiastic responses during live performances.
Cultural Impact
While “Gonna Take A Lot Of River” may not have crossed over into pop culture in the way that some other country hits have, it has remained a cherished song within the country music community. Its message of perseverance and healing resonates with listeners from all walks of life, making it a song that continues to be relevant decades after its release. The Oak Ridge Boys’ ability to create songs that touch on universal themes has helped them maintain their status as icons in the country music world.
Legacy
The legacy of “Gonna Take A Lot Of River” lies in its timeless appeal. The Oak Ridge Boys have always been masters of creating music that feels both classic and contemporary, and this song is no exception. Even today, it remains a favorite among fans, a testament to its enduring message and the undeniable talent of the band. The song serves as a reminder that some things, like love and healing, take time—and that’s okay. Its gentle reminder wrapped in beautiful harmonies is what keeps listeners coming back to it.
Conclusion
For anyone who hasn’t yet explored The Oak Ridge Boys’ catalog, “Gonna Take A Lot Of River” is a perfect starting point. It showcases everything that has made this group legendary—their harmonies, their heartfelt lyrics, and their ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering them, this song is sure to resonate. I highly recommend listening to a live performance to fully appreciate the magic of their harmonies in action.
So, if you’re in the mood for a song that will wash away your troubles, let “Gonna Take A Lot Of River” be your soundtrack—it’s a journey worth taking.
Video
Lyrics
I ain’t gonna ride no rail or hitchhike down no highway
I ain’t going nowhere feeling the way I do
Because my baby’s long gone and nothings going my way
I’m gonna let this muddy water just wash away my blues.
Gonna take a lot of river,
To keep this broken heart afloat,
Gonna take a lot of river
Running all the live long days,
Gonna take the Mississippi, the Monongahela and the Ohio,
Gonna take a lot of river
To wash these blues away.
Well, I wish I was tug boat pushing and pulling them barges along
Moving on the water with a heart made of iron and steel
There wouldn’t be no women that could ever take my loving and do me wrong
I could work all day with nothing in the world to feel.
Gonna take a lot of river
To keep this broken heart afloat
Gonna take a lot of river
Running all the live long days
Gonna take the Mississippi, the Monongahela and the Ohio
Gonna take a lot of river
To wash these blues away.
Is she in New Orleans
Is she a cajun queen
I wonder what she’s doing now
But if I know her she’s got rings and furs, struggling along somehow.
Gonna take a lot of river
To keep this broken heart afloat
Gonna take a lot of river
Running all the live long days
Gonna take the Mississippi, the Monongahela and the Ohio
Gonna take a lot of river
To wash these blues away.
Gonna take a lot of river
To keep this broken heart afloat
Gonna take a lot of river
Running all the live long days
Gonna take the Mississippi, the Monongahela and the Ohio
Gonna take a lot of river
To wash these blues away