TLC - Waterfalls

“Waterfalls” is a song by the American hip-hop group TLC. It was released as the third single from their second album, CrazySexyCool, in 1994. The song tells a poignant story about love, loss, and the consequences of risky behavior.

Released: May 22, 1995.
Genre: R&B, pop1.
Chart Performance: It spent seven weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was the No. 2 song of the year on the Billboard 1995 year-end chart. In the UK, it peaked at No. 412.
Awards: The song received two Grammy nominations in 1996 for Record of the Year and Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal1.

Let’s dive into the lyrics:
Verse 1 (T-Boz): A lonely mother gazes out of the window, watching her son who she can’t reach. He’s in trouble, but he doesn’t realize how much he hurts her. Despite her prayers, he continues down a dangerous path.
Chorus: The iconic chorus advises against chasing “waterfalls” and encourages sticking to familiar paths (“rivers and lakes”). It’s a cautionary message about avoiding risky choices.
Verse 2 (T-Boz): The second verse introduces “Little Precious,” who is tempted by unhealthy desires. He can’t see the harm, but his health deteriorates. The three letters (HIV) lead him to his final resting place.