The Meaning Behind The Song: Across The River by Bruce Hornsby & the Range
Introduction
“Across The River” is a pop rock song by Bruce Hornsby & the Range that was released in 1990. The song was part of the album “A Night on the Town”, which was the band’s third studio album. It was produced by Bruce Hornsby, Neil Dorfsman, and Elliot Scheiner. The song was written by Bruce Hornsby and John Hornsby.
The song is known for its catchy melody, soulful vocals, and powerful lyrics that speak about life’s challenges and the struggle to overcome them. It has been a fan favorite since its release and has received critical acclaim for its message and sound.
The Meaning Behind The Song
The lyrics of “Across The River” speak about a person’s journey through life, the struggles that they face, and the decisions that they have to make. The song starts with Hornsby singing about a river that separates him from his dreams and aspirations. He sings about the challenges that he faces in trying to cross the river and achieve his goals.
The chorus of the song is a powerful message about the importance of perseverance and never giving up. Hornsby sings “Across the river, a final climb, we’ll find our place in this world in due time”. The lyrics suggest that the journey may be tough, but with perseverance, one can overcome any obstacle and reach their destination.
Throughout the song, Hornsby sings about the challenges that come with making decisions and taking risks. He sings about the fear of failure and the uncertainty of success. The song’s lyrics suggest that taking risks and making tough choices is an important part of life’s journey, and that the rewards are worth the effort.
The song’s bridge is a touching statement about the importance of friendship and love. Hornsby sings “What I need is a heartfelt friend, to see me through to the very end”. The lyrics suggest that having someone to rely on during the difficult times in life is an essential part of overcoming challenges.
In summary, “Across The River” is a powerful message about the journey of life, the challenges that come with it, and the need for perseverance, courage, and the support of loved ones to succeed.
The Music of the Song
The music of “Across The River” is as powerful as its lyrics. It features a catchy rhythm, soulful vocals, and an upbeat melody that perfectly complements the message of the song. The song’s instrumentation includes a mix of acoustic and electric guitars, piano, bass, drums, and synthesizer.
The song’s unforgettable chorus is supported by a gospel choir that adds an extra layer of emotion and power to the song. The use of the choir perfectly captures the uplifting and inspiring message of the song.
Inspiration Behind the Song
Bruce Hornsby has spoken about the inspiration behind the song. He has said that the lyrics were inspired by his personal experiences and the challenges that he faced during his career as a musician. He has also said that the song is a message of hope and inspiration for anyone who is trying to achieve their dreams.
In an interview with Songfacts, Hornsby said: “I was constantly coming up with new songs and ideas, and I just kept hearing in my head, ‘Across the river, a final climb.’ It was a hopeful message to myself during a time when I needed some hope, and I wanted to write a song that would inspire others to keep pushing forward.”
The Reception of the Song
“Across The River” was received positively by fans and critics alike. It was a commercial success, reaching number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 13 on the Adult Contemporary chart. The song’s message of hope and perseverance resonated with audiences, and it became a fan favorite.
Critics praised the song for its uplifting message and powerful lyrics. It was also praised for its catchy melody and soulful vocals. “Across The River” has become one of Bruce Hornsby & the Range’s most beloved songs, and it continues to inspire and uplift fans today.
FAQs
1. What was the inspiration behind “Across The River”?
Bruce Hornsby has said that the song was inspired by his personal experiences and the challenges that he faced during his career as a musician. He has also said that the song is a message of hope and inspiration for anyone who is trying to achieve their dreams.
2. What is the meaning of the chorus in “Across The River”?
The chorus of “Across The River” is a powerful message about the importance of perseverance and never giving up. Hornsby sings “Across the river, a final climb, we’ll find our place in this world in due time”. The lyrics suggest that the journey may be tough, but with perseverance, one can overcome any obstacle and reach their destination.
3. What instruments were used in “Across The River”?
The song’s instrumentation includes a mix of acoustic and electric guitars, piano, bass, drums, and synthesizer.
4. How did “Across The River” perform on the charts?
“Across The River” was a commercial success, reaching number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 13 on the Adult Contemporary chart.
5. Who was the producer of “Across The River”?
The song was produced by Bruce Hornsby, Neil Dorfsman, and Elliot Scheiner.
6. What message does “Across The River” convey?
The song is a powerful message about the journey of life, the challenges that come with it, and the need for perseverance, courage, and the support of loved ones to succeed.
7. What role does the choir play in “Across The River”?
The song’s unforgettable chorus is supported by a gospel choir that adds an extra layer of emotion and power to the song. The use of the choir perfectly captures the uplifting and inspiring message of the song.
8. What is the genre of “Across The River”?
The song is a pop rock song.
9. What is the significance of the bridge in “Across The River”?
The song’s bridge is a touching statement about the importance of friendship and love. Hornsby sings “What I need is a heartfelt friend, to see me through to the very end”. The lyrics suggest that having someone to rely on during the difficult times in life is an essential part of overcoming challenges.
10. What is the album that “Across The River” is a part of?
The song was part of the album “A Night on the Town”, which was the band’s third studio album.
11. When was “Across The River” released?
The song was released in 1990.
12. Who wrote the song “Across The River”?
The song was written by Bruce Hornsby and John Hornsby.
