"The River"

In a musical world full of nonsense that passes as music, it was refreshing for me to stumble upon a treasure of a song. It's called "The River" and it's sung by newcomer Noel Gourdin.

Okay, so everybody's telling me this song's been out for a year(?) and asking me where I've been. Living in a cave called running a school is my answer. But seriously, this song's lyrics are powerful. It conjures up vivid images and warm feelings inside. And if you have roots in the South, you can instantly relate. Even if you don't, you can relate to the wistful theme of love lost. And brother man's voice is FIRE! Some say he reminds them of Anthony Hamilton or Jaheim. Humph! Really reminds me of the old school crooners back in the day -- the Eddie Kendricks and David Ruffins and such.

For the full experience, check out the video:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=Dy7iPhG7VT4

Or for the initially skeptical, here are the lyrics...

"The River", produced and written by Lady and a Tramp and sung by Noel Gourdin

Growin' up, it was tough
We were glad for what little we had
I saw my share of Old Fair, Mississippi, dirt roads, and Confederate flags
Everyday my father would tell me, “Son, run and don't never come back”
That's where I left my girl
That's where my heart is at, and ohh...

[Chorus]
I held my breath when they dipped my head
Then I came up shiny and new
Found out about love in the back of my Impala
Where they laid my grandfather too
Down by the river where black folks gather after Sunday service is through
How the river runs to the ocean, I'll be runnin' right back to you

I got along, I'm movin' on
I bandaged the scars up well
I think of her, then I sit and I wait
For a card or a letter in the mail
I walk the beach with the sand in my feet
Place my ear up to a shell
I wonder if you miss me too
Cuz I been longin' to get to you
I'm sick of starin' out my window sill
I'm tired of hopin' she remembers me still
I'm packin' my bags, I said I'm goin' back home
To the place where I belong
The river
And if she's there when I get there
I'm never gonna leave her again
You see, she stole my heart
Down by the river

[Chorus]

So I'm packin' up my suitcase
Bought me a one-way fare
I'm leavin' everything behind me
But in my heart I always care
And I'll still be right there (Thank you baby)
Cuz nothin' can replace that part in my life, and...

[Chorus]