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Many Rivers To Cross By Jimmy Cliff
His Quest For Success

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jimmy_cliff_dig_jamaica.jpgMany Rivers To Cross By Jimmy Cliff

By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

"Many Rivers to Cross," is a song I have been listening to since as early as I could remember. A song I still listen to even today. It’s more than a song, more like an anthem that anyone who has ever experienced any form of hardship or struggle can relate to.

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One would assume that a song as powerful and timeless as this was written by an older, more experienced man. But that was not the case, Jimmy was only 25 years old when he wrote this song. And while he was young in years, he was “old” when it came to experiencing trials and tribulations in his life. You see he wrote this song during some very trying times in his life.

After relocating to the United Kingdom with high hopes of achieving great musical success, Cliff found himself grappling with disappointment and disillusionment. "When I came to the UK, I was still in my teens. I came full of vigour: I'm going to make it, I’m going to be up there with the Beatles and the Stones," he recounted. Instead, he faced the harsh reality of touring small clubs without achieving the breakthrough he yearned for.

The lyrics of "Many Rivers to Cross" vividly capture the emotional turmoil and sense of displacement he was experiencing. Lines like "Many rivers to cross, but I can't seem to find my way over" poignantly convey his struggles to overcome obstacles, both personal and professional. The reference to the White Cliffs of Dover symbolizes the geographical and emotional distance Cliff felt during this trying time, crossing the English Channel in search of solace and success.

Cliff initially held back the song, unsure if a ballad would fit his upcoming album. It wasn't until a fortuitous moment in New York, walking to the studio, that he completed the song in his mind. Spontaneously, he shared it with session musicians, resulting in a soul-stirring performance that captured the essence of his journey. The addition of an organ and gospel-style backing vocals further enriched the song's depth and emotional resonance.

Released on his 1969 album Jimmy Cliff and later featured prominently in the soundtrack of the 1972 film The Harder They Come, in which Cliff starred, "Many Rivers to Cross" gained widespread acclaim. Its inclusion on Rolling Stone's list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time (ranked No. 325) underscores its enduring impact and universal appeal.

"Many Rivers to Cross" remains a timeless anthem of resilience in the face of adversity. Cliff's evocative lyrics and soulful delivery continue to inspire listeners, resonating with anyone who has faced challenges and setbacks in their own journey through life. The song's universal themes of perseverance and the quest for identity make it a poignant reflection of the human experience.

Many Rivers To Cross

By Jimmy Cliff

[Verse 1]
Many rivers to cross
But I can't seem to find my way over
Wandering, I am lost
As I travel along White Cliffs of Dover

[Verse 2]
Many rivers to cross
And it's only my will that keeps me alive
I've been licked, washed up for years
And I merely survive because of my pride

[Bridge]
Oh, that loneliness won't leave me alone
It's such a drag to be on your own
My woman left and she didn't say why
Well, I guess I'll have to try

[Verse 3]
Many rivers to cross
But just where to begin? I'm playing for time
There'll be times I find myself
Thinking of committing some dreadful crime

[Outro]
Yes, I've got many rivers to cross
But I can't seem to find my way over
Wandering, I am lost
As I travel along the White Cliffs of Dover

Jimmy Cliff's "Many Rivers to Cross" is among the top ten reggae songs of all time if you ask me. As a matter of fact I wrote an article a short while back on some of the top reggae songs of all time. You can check out this article right here and come back and let me know what you think about my top 10 choices.

I know you have heard Many Rivers To Cross before, maybe in a movie, in passing, a TV show etc, but now you know the lyrics so you can sing along.

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References & Sources For Many Rivers To Cross By Jimmy Cliff

  1. Jimmy Cliff – Many Rivers to Cross. (n.d.). Genius. https://genius.com/Jimmy-cliff-many-rivers-to-cross-lyrics

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