About the song
Running Bear,” a timeless ballad released in 1959, tells a heart-wrenching tale of star-crossed lovers doomed by tribal feuds and the unforgiving forces of nature. Sung by the soulful Johnny Preston, the song’s haunting melody and poignant lyrics have captivated audiences for decades.
The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of ancient tribal rivalry. Running Bear, a young Indian brave, and Little White Dove, an Indian maid, find themselves deeply in love, despite the bitter animosity between their respective tribes. Their passion is tested by the raging river that separates their villages, a physical barrier that also symbolizes the cultural divide between them.
Despite the insurmountable odds, Running Bear and Little White Dove risk everything to be together. In a desperate act of defiance, they dive into the treacherous river, their love a beacon of hope amidst the darkness. However, their tragic fate is sealed as the powerful current sweeps them away, forever uniting them in death.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke powerful emotions. The evocative lyrics, combined with Preston’s soulful vocals, create a sense of longing, loss, and the bittersweet beauty of love that transcends all boundaries. “Running Bear” serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of human connection and the tragic consequences of prejudice and division.
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
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