Morgan Heritage, which consisted of Peter, Una, Gramps, Nakhamyah, and Mojo Morgan, formed in the 1990s and became a standout on the Jamaican Reggae scene in the 2000s. Released initially in 2000 and then in 2001 on their More Teachings album, Down by the River remains one of Morgan Heritage’s most beloved songs.
The song’s lyrics detail a person who has been told repeatedly of God’s presence and works but lacks the faith to believe it truly. But through divine creation, in the form of nature, the singer finds his faith and now waits for God’s presence.
“Mother nature sent to me three little birds singing a song convincing me it was so. Now I’m on my way. Anyone come to see me this day, tell them I’ll be gone for the day. I’ll be down by the river, waiting for the good Lord to pass my way. I’ll be down by the river, singing songs of joy on this lovely day,’ Peter Morgan sings on the song.
Down by the River continues to resonate with its story of how faith can find its way into a doubtful heart.
While the Reggae world continues to mourn the loss of Peter ‘Peetah’ Morgan, his memory lives on in the musical legacy created by him and his siblings with Morgan Heritage’s catalogue of songs.
Listen Down by the River below.
