Running Bear (1960) – Johnny Preston

Introduction

“Running Bear” is a 1960 hit song by American rock and roll singer Johnny Preston. The song was written by Jiles Perry Richardson, Jr. (a.k.a. The Big Bopper), who was killed in a plane crash a few months before the song’s release.

The song is a teenage tragedy ballad about a young Native American man who falls in love with a white woman. Their relationship is forbidden by their families, and the man is eventually killed by the woman’s father.

“Running Bear” was a huge hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and the UK Singles Chart. It was also a top ten hit in several other countries.

The song has been criticized for its stereotypical portrayal of Native Americans and its romanticization of teenage suicide. However, it remains a popular and well-known song today.

“Running Bear” remains a popular and well-known song today. It has been covered by many artists, including Elvis Presley, The Beach Boys, and Roy Orbison. The song has also been featured in several films and television shows.

Despite its controversial lyrics, “Running Bear” is a powerful and moving song about the power of love. It is a song that continues to resonate with audiences today.

Watch The 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 Indian 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 their 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