About the song
“Rivers of Babylon” is a song by the German group Boney M. The song was released as a single in 1978 and later included on their third studio album, “Nightflight to Venus.” The lyrics of the song are based on Psalm 137 from the Bible, which expresses the exiled Israelites’ longing for their homeland, Zion, while they are by the rivers of Babylon.
The Boney M. version of “Rivers of Babylon” became a massive international hit. The reggae-influenced track features a catchy melody and distinctive harmonies. The chorus, with the repeated refrain “By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down. Yeah, we wept when we remembered Zion,” became iconic and contributed to the song’s widespread appeal.
Boney M.’s interpretation of the biblical text was set to a lively and danceable rhythm, combining elements of reggae, pop, and disco. The group’s charismatic performances and the strong vocal presence of lead singer Liz Mitchell helped propel the song to commercial success.
“Rivers of Babylon” topped the charts in multiple countries, becoming one of Boney M.’s most successful and enduring hits. The song’s popularity has endured over the years, and it remains a classic in the group’s discography. The track has been covered by various artists and is often featured in retrospectives of the disco and pop music of the late 1970s.
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