The nomination stated that "people are born to do certain things, and Al was born to make us smile." In 2004, Al Green's original version was ranked number 117 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. "Take Me to the River" is a 1974 song written by singer Al Green and guitarist Mabon "Teenie" Hodges. In 2004, Al Green's original version was ranked number 117 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. Take Me to the River Lyrics: "I'd like to dedicate this song to little Junior Parker / A cousin of mine who's gone on, but we'd like to / Kinda carry on in his name / I sing." Hit versions were recorded by both Syl Johnson and Talking Heads. Albert Greene (born April 13, 1946), better known as Al Green or Reverend Al Green, is an American gospel and soul music singer. About Take Me to the River "Take Me to the River" is a 1974 song written by singer Al Green and guitarist Mabon "Teenie" Hodges. In 2005, Rolling Stone named him No. Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Warner Chappell Music, Inc. Lyrics to 'Take Me To The River' by Al Green: I'd like to dedicate this song to Little Junior Parker, a cousin of mine who's gone on but we'd like to kinda carry on in his name, by singing I don't know why I love like I do After all the changes that you put me through You stole my money and my cigarettes Green has sold more than 20 million records. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted Green in 1995, referring to him as "one of the most gifted purveyors of soul music." Hit versions were recorded by both Syl Johnson and Talking Heads. Get instant explanation for any lyrics that hits you anywhere on the web!Get instant explanation for any acronym or abbreviation that hits you anywhere on the web! 66 in their list of the '100 Greatest Artists of All Time'. He reached the peak of his popularity in the 1970s, with hit singles such as "You Oughta Be With Me", "I'm Still In Love With You", "Love and Happiness", and "Let's Stay Together". Lyrics to "Take Me To The River" by AL GREEN: [Al Green:] / I don't know why I love you like I do / After all these changes you put me through / You stole my money and my cigarettes / And I haven't seen hide nor hair of you yet / I wanna know / Won't you tell me / Am I in love to stay?