Down by the bend where the blackbird sings
Over by the rocks there's a crystal spring
Back in the shadows where the watercress grows
Sweet spring water runs clear and cold

Living on the river was nice and easy
People on the river just take their time
The wind in the summer was warm and breezy
Wind in the winter it cut like iron

Down around the dam by the railroad bridge
There's wind in the shallow where the crayfish live
Over by the trees where the catfish bite
They'll be swimming in the skillet before tonight

Living on the river was nice and easy
People on the river just take their time
The wind in the summer was warm and breezy
Wind in the winter it cut like iron

Walkin' down the hill on a winter's night
To go skating on the river in the cold moonlight
There's an old wood stove and a hardwood floor
You can sit and take it easy while your feet get warm

Living on the river was nice and easy
People on the river just take their time
The wind in the summer was warm and breezy
Wind in the winter it cut like iron

Up in the morning at four o'clock
I'll meet you at the landing at Linch's dock
Drifting on the river when the sun comes up
Drinking hot black coffee from an old tin cup

Living on the river was nice and easy
People on the river just take their time
The wind in the summer was warm and breezy
Wind in the winter it cut like iron