About the song
Johnny Preston’s “Running Bear,” released in 1959, is a timeless ballad that has captured the hearts of listeners for generations. The song’s poignant lyrics, coupled with Preston’s soulful vocals and the haunting melody, have made it a classic of rock and roll.
“Running Bear” is a heart-wrenching tale of lost love and the enduring pain of separation. Preston’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a Native American man mourning the loss of his beloved. The song’s melancholic tone is amplified by Preston’s emotive delivery and the soulful saxophone solo.
Musically, “Running Bear” is a beautifully crafted rock and roll ballad that showcases Preston’s songwriting and vocal abilities. The arrangement is sparse, allowing Preston’s vocals to take center stage. The song’s simple chord progression and steady tempo create a sense of longing and melancholy, while the occasional guitar solo adds a touch of emotional release.
Beyond its commercial success, “Running Bear” has become a cultural touchstone, influencing countless artists and cementing Preston’s legacy as a pioneer of rock and roll. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level. As we listen to “Running Bear” today, we are reminded of the power of music to evoke powerful emotions and the enduring legacy of Johnny Preston’s artistry.
Video
Lyrics
On the bank of the river stood Running Bear, young Indian brave
On the other side of the river stood his lovely Indian maid
Little White Dove was her name, such a lovely sight to see
But their tribes fought with each other, so their love could never be
Running Bear loved Little White Dove
With a love big as the sky
Running Bear loved Little White Dove
With a love that couldn’t die
He couldn’t swim the raging river ’cause the river was too wide
He couldn’t reach Little White Dove waiting on the other side
In the moonlight he could see her throwing kisses ‘cross the waves
Her little heart was beating faster, waiting there for her brave
Running Bear loved Little White Dove
With a love big as the sky
Running Bear loved Little White Dove
With a love that couldn’t die
Running Bear dove in the water, Little White Dove did the same
And they swam out to each other, through the swirling stream they came
As their hands touched and their lips met, the raging river pulled them down
Now they’ll always be together in that happy hunting ground
Running Bear loved Little White Dove
With a love big as the sky
Running Bear loved Little White Dove
With a love that couldn’t die