Randy Newman is an amazing singer-songwriter known for his distinctive voice and satirical lyrics. He gained fame with songs like Short People and I Love L.A. and became widely recognized for his film soundtracks, especially for Pixar movies like Toy Story.
He has won multiple Grammy and Academy Awards for his work in music.
About the Song
Burn On is a song about the Cuyahoga River fire in Cleveland. It uses humor and melody to highlight pollution.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | May 23, 1972 |
| Album | Sail Away |
| Writers | Randy Newman |
| Producers | Lenny Waronker & Russ Titelman |
Burn On Lyrics by Randy Newman
Verse 1
There’s a red moon rising on the Cuyahoga River
Rolling into Cleveland to the lake
There’s a red moon rising on the Cuyahoga River
Rolling into Cleveland to the lake
Verse 2
There’s an oil barge winding down the Cuyahoga River
Rolling into Cleveland to the lake
There’s an oil barge winding down the Cuyahoga River
Rolling into Cleveland to the lake
Pre-Chorus
Cleveland, city of light, city of magic
Cleveland, city of light, you’re calling me
Cleveland, even now I can remember
‘Cause the Cuyahoga River goes smoking through my dreams
Chorus
Burn on, big river, burn on
Burn on, big river, burn on
Bridge
Now the Lord can make you tumble
The Lord can make you turn
The Lord can make you overflow
But the Lord can’t make you burn
Chorus
Burn on, big river, burn on
Burn on, big river, burn on
Similar Songs Like Burn On
These songs reflect Randy Newman’s distinct musical style, combining storytelling with melodic charm.
- “I Love to See You Smile“: This song has a cheerful and bouncy tune, characteristic of Randy Newman’s compositions.
- “You’ve Got a Friend in Me“: A classic Newman song with a warm, sentimental feel and similar melodic structure.
- “Losing You“: While slightly different in tone, this song showcases Newman’s emotional depth and storytelling.
- “We Belong Together“: This song is another Newman piece that shares thematic similarities with his other works. It blends heartfelt lyrics with his signature sound.
Similar Artists Like Randy Newman
These artists share Randy Newman’s storytelling style and blend of genres, making them excellent choices for fans of his music.
- Harry Nilsson
Genres: Pop, Rock, Comedy
Top Albums: Nilsson Schmilsson (1971), A Little Touch of Schmilsson in the Night (1973) - Michael Giacchino
Genres: Film Score, Contemporary Classical, Jazz
Top Albums: Up (2009), Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016) - Paul Simon
Genres: Folk, Rock, Gospel, Reggae
Top Albums: Bridge Over Troubled Water (with Art Garfunkel) (1970), Graceland (1986) - Warren Zevon
Genres: Pop, Rock, Folk
Top Albums: Excitable Boy (1978), The Wind (2003)
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Randy Newman’s Biggest Hit?
Short People was Randy Newman’s biggest hit, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1978.
What Inspired Randy Newman to Write Burn On?
Newman was inspired by the 1969 fire on the polluted Cuyahoga River in Cleveland, highlighting environmental issues.
Has Burn On been Featured in any Movies or TV shows?
Yes, Burn On was featured in the movie Major League (1989).
