Leon Bridges’ “River” Lyrics Meaning

by SMF·October 8, 2019

Despite Leon Bridge’s “River” being accepted by a mainstream audience, the best way to describe it really is actually as a gospel tune. It is based on the singer desiring a change in life in his light of what can best be explained as a sinful past. Or another way of looking at it is that his conscience is bothering him due to some of his previous actions. This is especially in relation to them going against the religious ideologies that are part and parcel of his upbringing and belief system.

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Thus the whole experience he is describing throughout in relation to the titular “river” is basically tantamount to a baptism. Or phrased differently, this symbolic “river” is owned by God Himself. And by being ‘dipped’ in its “smooth water”, the singer expects that his “sins” will be washed away.

So more than anything, as aforementioned, this track represents a longing on the part of the singer to experience a sort of spiritual cleansing in his life. He is hoping that after this spiritual cleansing he will no longer feel guilt for his past immoral actions. Furthermore, he hopes the cleansing will not compel him to repeat his sins/crimes.

Music Video

The music video to this song was directed by Miles Jay. And it was filmed in Baltimore in 2015 during the Freddy Gray protests. FYI, Freddy Gray was a young African-American male who unexpectedly died while under police custody in that city. His death was what led to the aforementioned protests.

Did Leon Bridges write “River”?

Yes. “River” was written by Leon Bridges along with the writers below:

Joshua Block
Austin Jenkins
Chris Vivion

And the track was produced by Niles City Sound, a studio in Texas.

Leon Bridges derived inspiration for this song, including the symbolism of a river, from traditional spirituals, specifically one entitled “Down to the River to Pray”.

A truly famous track

As aforementioned, this track has had a notable pop media presence. For instance, “River” was featured on a Beats by Dre commercial. Furthermore, it appeared on a 2017 episode of the HBO drama series “Big Little Lies”.