About the song
Introduction to “Roll On Mississippi” by Charley Pride
Charley Pride, the first African-American country music singer to achieve mainstream success, delivered a powerful and poignant message with his 1969 hit “Roll On Mississippi”. The song, a country ballad with a touch of gospel flair, became an anthem for those seeking hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
Pride, known for his smooth baritone and heartfelt delivery, paints a vivid picture of the Mississippi River, a mighty waterway that has witnessed both joy and sorrow. The river’s ceaseless flow serves as a metaphor for the human spirit, its enduring strength carrying us through life’s challenges.
The lyrics capture the essence of the American South, where the river has long been a symbol of both hardship and hope. Pride sings of the struggles of everyday people, their dreams and aspirations, and their unwavering belief in a better future.
The song’s chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Roll on, Mississippi”, is a call to action, urging listeners to persevere in the face of obstacles. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a brighter day.
“Roll On Mississippi” is not just a song about a river; it is a song about the human spirit, its capacity for resilience, and its unwavering belief in a better future. Pride’s powerful vocals and heartfelt delivery bring the song’s message to life, making it an enduring classic of American country music.
Video
Lyrics
“Roll On Mississippi”
Walking along, whistling a song,
Barefoot and fancy free,
A big riverboat, passing us by, she’s headed for New Orleans
There she goes, disappearing around the bend.
Roll on Mississippi; you make me feel like a child again.A cool river breeze, like peppermint leaves,
The taste of it takes me back,
Chewin on a straw, torn overalls,
A cane pole and old straw hat and muddy river.
Just like a long lost friend.
Roll on Mississippi; you make me feel like a child againRoll on Mississippi, big river roll.
You’re the childhood dream that I grew up on.
Roll on Mississippi, carry me home.
Now I can see I’ve been away too long.
Roll on, Mississippi, roll on.Now, when the world’s spinning round, too fast for me,
And I need a place to dream.
So I come to your banks, I sit in your shade
Relive the memories
Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn
Roll on Mississippi; you make me feel like a child againRoll on Mississippi, Big river roll
You’re the childhood dream that I grew up on.
Roll on Mississippi, carry me home.
Now I can see I’ve been away too long.
Roll on, Mississippi, roll on, Mississippi,
Roll on, Mississippi, roll on
Roll on, Mississippi, roll on
Roll on, Mississippi, roll on