Duran Duran is a British band that gained fame in the 1980s with their new wave and synth-pop sound. Known for hits like Hungry Like the Wolf and Rio, they quickly became one of the most successful bands of the decade.
Their innovative music videos helped define the MTV era. Duran Duran has sold over 100 million records worldwide and won numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards.
With a career spanning decades, they continue to influence pop and rock music, solidifying their legacy as one of the most iconic bands of their time.
About the Song
Rio by Duran Duran is an upbeat and catchy song that became one of their signature tracks. It helped propel the band to international fame.
The song describes a beautiful and wild woman who is full of life and energy, symbolizing America and the band’s dreams of success. It compares her to the sparkling waves of a river, showing how exciting and fun she is to be around.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | May 10, 1982 |
| Album | The Biggest and the Best (2012) |
| Writers | Nick Rhodes, Roger Taylor (Duran Duran), Andy Taylor, John Taylor and Simon Le Bon |
| Producer | Colin Thurston |
Complete Lyrics of Rio by Duran Duran
Verse 1
Moving on the floor now, babe, you’re a bird of paradise
Cherry ice cream smile, I suppose it’s very nice
With a step to your left and a flick to the right
You catch that mirror way out west
You know you’re something special
And you look like you’re the best
Chorus
Her name is Rio, and she dances on the sand
Just like that river twisting through a dusty land
And when she shines, she really shows you all she can
Oh, Rio, Rio, dance across the Rio Grande
Verse 2
I’ve seen you on the beach, and I’ve seen you on TV
Two of a billion stars, it means so much to me
Like a birthday or a pretty view
But then I’m sure that you know it’s just for you
Chorus
Her name is Rio, and she dances on the sand
Just like that river twisting through a dusty land
And when she shines, she really shows you all she can
Oh, Rio, Rio, dance across the Rio Grande
Saxophone Solo
Bridge
Hey now, woo, look at that
Did he nearly run you down?
At the end of the drive, the lawmen arrive
You make me feel alive, alive, alive
I’ll take my chance, ’cause luck is on my side or something
I know what you’re thinking
I’ll tell you something, I know what you’re thinking
Chorus
Her name is Rio, and she dances on the sand
Just like that river twists across a dusty land
And when she shines, she really shows you all she can
Oh, Rio, Rio, dance across the Rio Grande
Her name is Rio, she don’t need to understand
And I might find her if I’m looking like I can
Oh, Rio, Rio, hear them shout across the land
From mountains in the North down to the Rio Grande
Outro
Doo doo doo doo doo doo
Doo doo doo doo doo doo
Doo doo doo doo doo doo doo doo doo doo doo
Meaning and Interpretation of the Song
Rio by Duran Duran is often seen as a celebration of escape and adventure. The song evokes the glamour and allure of Rio de Janeiro, a city symbolizing freedom and indulgence.
Through its lyrics, the song portrays a tour to an exotic and carefree destination where the possibilities are endless.
The imagery in the song talks about a sense of yearning and excitement, while also having the energy and rhythm of the city.
The catchy chorus and melody enhance the song’s overall feeling of joy, making it an essential 80s anthem about seizing the moment and having a life of luxury and pleasure.
Live Performance of Rio at BBC Music Day, Eden Project 2016
Similar Songs Like Rio by Duran Duran
All the listed songs share similarities in their upbeat, synth-driven, catchy, and energetic qualities, like Rio:
- Hungry Like the Wolf: This energetic track mirrors Rio with its high beats and catchy hook, getting Duran Duran’s iconic 80s sound.
- The Reflex: With its infectious rhythm and radio-friendly melody, it shares a similar high-energy vibe, like Rio, becoming a dance floor anthem.
- Save a Prayer: While more mellow, this track shares the same memorable hooks and synth-driven sounds that made Rio a classic in Duran Duran’s catalog.
- Planet Earth: With its upbeat tempo and synth-pop style, it complements Rio by delivering the same mix of catchy tunes and driving rhythms.
- Is There Something I Should Know?: This track offers an energetic beat and infectious chorus, creating a similar vibe to Rio with its distinctive 80s sound.
Similar Artists Like Duran Duran
If you enjoy the sound and style of Duran Duran, you’ll appreciate these artists too, they share a similar mix of new wave, synth-pop, and pop rock, and left a big mark on music history:
- Spandau Ballet
Genres: New Wave, Synth-pop, Pop Rock
Top Albums: True (1983), Parade (1984), The Singles Collection (2003) - A-ha
Genres: Synth-pop, New Wave
Top Albums: Hunting High and Low (1985), Scoundrel Days (1986), Stay on These Roads (1988) - Depeche Mode
Genres: Synth-pop, Electronic Rock, New Wave
Top Albums: Violator (1990), Music for the Masses (1987), Songs of Faith and Devotion (1993) - The Human League
Genres: Synth-pop, New Wave
Top Albums: Dare (1981), Reproduction (1979), Crash (1986) - ABC
Genres: New Wave, Synth-pop, Pop
Top Albums: The Lexicon of Love (1982), Beauty Stab (1983), How to Be a… Zillionaire! (1985) - INXS
Genres: Rock, New Wave, Pop Rock
Top Albums: Kick (1987), Listen Like Thieves (1985), Shabooh Shoobah (1982)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Significance of the Music Video for Rio?
The Rio music video is iconic for its colorful, tropical imagery and conveys the essence of the 80s, helping in the song’s success worldwide.
Is Rio Duran Duran’s Most Successful Song?
While Rio is one of Duran Duran’s most iconic hits, Hungry Like the Wolf and Save a Prayer also remain some of their biggest successes.
Is there a Lyrical Video of Rio by Duran Duran?
Yes, you can watch the lyrical video for Rio by Duran Duran on YouTube.
