Piano, Piano Solo - Level 4 - Digital Download
SKU: A0.1596716
By Joni Mitchell. By Joni Mitchell. Arranged by SRS Music. This edition: pdf, streaming. Christmas, Folk, Pop, Rock. Score. 4 pages. SRS Music #1167716. Published by SRS Music (A0.1596716).
From Smooth Radio:
What is 'River' about and what inspired the song?
The song is about the recent split of a romantic relationship, with Joni needing to escape her immediate surroundings and emotional connections as they are too painful.
It is said to be inspired by her 1968 to 1970 relationship with fellow artist Graham Nash.
At the beginning of 1970, Joni's relationship with Nash was falling apart. At the same time, she was feeling uncomfortable with the success and attention of her musical output.
Needing to get away, she went on a trip to Europe (skating away on a river to escape the "crazy scene").
While she was in Crete, she sent Nash a telegram to tell him their relationship was over.
In 'River', she admits to being "hard to handle" and blames herself for losing "the best baby I ever had."
Is it a Christmas song?
The song is set during the holiday season, with the singer feeling sad that she won't be sharing the Christmas period with her former partner.
The piano accompaniment borrows heavily from 'Jingle Bells', adding another festive touch.
While 'River' has become a modern Christmas standard, it isn't actually about Christmas itself.
Which album is it on?
'River' was recorded in 1971, and was featured on Mitchell's iconic album Blue.
This product was created by a member of ArrangeMe, Hal Leonard's global self-publishing community of independent composers, arrangers, and songwriters. ArrangeMe allows for the publication of unique arrangements of both popular titles and original compositions from a wide variety of voices and backgrounds.
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