“Let the Rain Pour Down” is a poignant song from Disney’s 1946 film Song of the South, performed by the Hall Johnson Choir. The song is featured in two contrasting scenes within the film, each highlighting different aspects of the characters’ lives.
In the first scene, the song is sung by plantation workers as they begin their day, setting out for the fields. The lyrics reflect the hardships they face, including issues like weevil infestations affecting their cotton crops. Despite these challenges, the chorus emphasizes resilience and a sense of belonging: “Let the rain pour down, let the cold wind blow, Gonna stay right here in the home I know.”
Later in the film, the song is reprised in a more somber context. As the workers return from their labor, the lyrics delve into themes of aging and mortality, urging gratitude for the time spent with loved ones and the joy of seeing children play around one’s home. This reprise underscores the cyclical nature of life and the importance of cherishing moments with family.
The song’s melody is set to the traditional blues tune “Midnight Special,” popularized by Lead Belly. Its inclusion in Song of the South adds depth to the film’s portrayal of African American culture and the resilience of its characters.
