African American spirituals are songs that originated during the time of slavery in the United States. They were a way for enslaved people to express their emotions, hopes, and faith.
These songs often mixed African rhythms with Christian themes, creating a unique sound that was both a form of resistance and a source of comfort.
Spirituals played a key role in African American culture and are still an important part of music history today.
About the Song
Down by the Riverside is a peaceful spiritual anthem about laying down burdens and choosing faith, hope, and community over conflict.
With its gentle repetition and river imagery, the song evokes a sense of spiritual renewal and a longing for freedom.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Release date | First published in 1918 |
| Album | Appears in Plantation Melodies: A Collection of Negro Songs of the South |
Down by the Riverside Lyrics
Gonna lay down my sword and shield,
down by the riverside,
down by the riverside,
down by the riverside;
gonna lay down my sword and shield,
down by the riverside,
down by the riverside.
I ain’t gonna study war no more.
ain’t gonna study war no more,
ain’t gonna study war no more,
I ain’t gonna study war no more,
ain’t gonna study war no more,
ain’t gonna study war no more.
Gonna lay down my burden,
down by the riverside,
down by the riverside,
down by the riverside;
gonna lay down my burden,
down by the riverside,
down by the riverside.
I ain’t gonna study war no more.
ain’t gonna study war no more,
ain’t gonna study war no more,
I ain’t gonna study war no more,
ain’t gonna study war no more,
ain’t gonna study war no more.
Note: Variations exist as this was an oral tradition passed through generations.
Similar Songs Like Down by the Riverside
If you love the powerful message and simple rhythm of Down by the Riverside, here are other traditional spirituals with similar themes of freedom, renewal, and faith:
- Wade in the Water: Coded with messages for escape, this river-based spiritual guided enslaved people on the Underground Railroad.
- Swing Low, Sweet Chariot: A gentle, soulful song about the hope of deliverance and the promise of a better place beyond this life.
- Go Down, Moses: Powerful and direct, this song echoes the biblical call for liberation, ‘Let my people go!’
- This Little Light of Mine: Celebrates perseverance and personal strength, encouraging people to shine their light, no matter what.
Artists Who Sang Down by the Riverside
If you’re drawn to spiritual music that blends tradition, emotion, and message, you’ll appreciate these artists who have helped carry this legacy forward:
- Mahalia Jackson
Genre: Gospel
Top Songs: Take My Hand, Precious Lord, How I Got Over - Louis Armstrong
Genre: Jazz, Gospel
Top Songs: What a Wonderful World, Go Down Moses - Kirk Franklin
Genre: Gospel, Contemporary Christian
Top Songs: Stomp, Imagine Me - Willie Jones
Genre: Country, Hip-Hop
Top Songs: Down by the Riverside, American Dream
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Down by The Riverside Considered a Peace Song?
Its refrain, Ain’t gonna study war no more, speaks directly to rejecting violence and accepting spiritual and emotional peace.
Is Down by The Riverside Still Sung Today?
Yes, it remains a favorite among choirs at civil rights commemorations, peace rallies, churches, and music festivals.
What Makes the Down by The Riverside Encounter?
Its simplicity, powerful message, and adaptability to different movements, religious, civil rights, and anti-war, give it timeless relevance.
