The song lyrics were written by the band Van Halen, as they were asked to write a song for the 1979 movie "Over the Edge" starring Matt Dillon. The movie (and the lyrics, although more obliquely) are about bored, rebellious youth with nothing better to do than get into trouble. If you see the movie, these lyrics will make more sense. It's a great movie if you grew up in the 70s/80s you'll definitely remember some of these characters from your own life. Fun fact, after writing the song, Van Halen decided not to let the movie use it.
Good to see you again, Rosie
I know I've changed a lot since then
You're lookin' fine, babe
Three years that ain't long, Rosie
I still remember our song
When you were mine, babe
Times change, times change I know
But it sure moves slow
Down river when you're locked away
Hey why didn't you write, Rosie
I stayed awake most every night
Countin' my time babe
Oh no I ain't mad Rosie
I know you had to mind your dad
But just a line babe
Oh sure I remember then
We went off to school
Ain't that right
Well he ain't no fool
He's a good man Rosie
Hold him tight as you can
Don't ask me why babe
Yeah nice seein' you again Rosie
Me I got things to do
Well good-bye babe
chorus
chorus
Rosie down river
Down river when you're locked away
Rosie I'm losing
Down river
I know I've changed a lot since then
You're lookin' fine, babe
Three years that ain't long, Rosie
I still remember our song
When you were mine, babe
Times change, times change I know
But it sure moves slow
Down river when you're locked away
Hey why didn't you write, Rosie
I stayed awake most every night
Countin' my time babe
Oh no I ain't mad Rosie
I know you had to mind your dad
But just a line babe
Oh sure I remember then
We went off to school
Ain't that right
Well he ain't no fool
He's a good man Rosie
Hold him tight as you can
Don't ask me why babe
Yeah nice seein' you again Rosie
Me I got things to do
Well good-bye babe
chorus
chorus
Rosie down river
Down river when you're locked away
Rosie I'm losing
Down river
Lyrics submitted by SongMeanings
Down River Lyrics as written by David Ackles
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Lyrics powered by LyricFind
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