Boney M. – Rivers of Babylon

About the song

“Rivers of Babylon” by Boney M. is a song that has etched itself into the hearts of music lovers across generations. Released in 1978 as part of the album “Nightflight to Venus,” this song is a rendition of a Rastafari song originally composed by Brent Dowe and Trevor McNaughton of The Melodians in 1970. Boney M.’s version, however, is the one that catapulted the song to international fame.

The track draws inspiration from the biblical Psalm 137, which reflects the lamentations of the Jewish people during their exile in Babylon. The lyrics evoke a deep sense of longing and yearning for freedom and home, sentiments that resonated widely during its release and continue to do so today.

“Rivers of Babylon” achieved tremendous success on the charts. It became a number one hit in several countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia. In the UK, it spent five

weeks at the top of the charts, solidifying Boney M.’s status as a pop sensation of the late 1970s. The song’s catchy reggae rhythm, combined with its poignant lyrics, struck a chord with audiences worldwide.

Boney M., a Euro-Caribbean group created by German record producer Frank Farian, brought a unique blend of disco, funk, and reggae to their music, making “Rivers of Babylon” a standout track in their repertoire. The group’s charismatic performances and vibrant style further contributed to the song’s enduring popularity.

The “Nightflight to Venus” album, which features “Rivers of Babylon,” also includes other hits like “Rasputin” and “Brown Girl in the Ring,” cementing the album’s place as one of the era’s iconic records. The album itself was a commercial success, reaching high chart positions globally and selling millions of copies.

“Rivers of Babylon” remains a beloved classic, often played at parties, gatherings, and even in various media over the years. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to blend a soulful message with an infectious melody, making it a song that continues to be cherished by listeners of all ages.

Video

Lyrics

By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down
Ye-eah we wept, when we remembered Zion

By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down
Ye-eah we wept, when we remembered Zion

When the wicked
Carried us away in captivity
Required from us a song
Now how shall we sing the Lord’s song in a strange land

When the wicked
Carried us away in captivity
Requiring of us a song
Now how shall we sing the Lord’s song in a strange land

Let the words of our mouth and the meditation of our heart
Be acceptable in thy sight here tonight

Let the words of our mouth and the meditation of our heart
Be acceptable in thy sight here tonight

By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down
Ye-eah we wept, when we remembered Zion

By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down
Ye-eah we wept, when we remembered Zion

By the rivers of Babylon (dark tears of Babylon)
There we sat down (You got to sing a song)
Ye-eah we wept, (Sing a song of love)
When we remembered Zion. (Yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah)

By the rivers of Babylon (Rough bits of Babylon)
There we sat down (You hear the people cry)
Ye-eah we wept, (They need their God)
When we remembered Zion. (Ooh, have the power)