On an episode of the VH1 show True Spin the band explained that “Rio” was a metaphor for their desire to succeed in America.
[Verse 1]
Moving on the floor now, babe, you're a bird of paradise
Cherry ice cream smile, I suppose it's very nice
With a step to your left and a flick to the right
You catch that mirror way out west
You know you're something special
And you look like you're the best
[Chorus]
Her name is Rio, and she dances on the sand
Just like that river twisting through a dusty land
And when she shines, she really shows you all she can
Oh, Rio, Rio, dance across the Rio Grande
[Verse 2]
I've seen you on the beach, and I've seen you on TV
Two of a billion stars, it means so much to me
Like a birthday or a pretty view
But then I'm sure that you know it's just for you
[Chorus]
Her name is Rio, and she dances on the sand
Just like that river twisting through a dusty land
And when she shines, she really shows you all she can
Oh, Rio, Rio, dance across the Rio Grande
[Saxophone Solo]
[Bridge]
Hey now, woo, look at that
Did he nearly run you down?
At the end of the drive, the lawmen arrive
You make me feel alive, alive, alive
I'll take my chance, 'cause luck is on my side or something
I know what you're thinking
I’ll tell you something, I know what you're thinking
[Chorus]
Her name is Rio, and she dances on the sand
Just like that river twists across a dusty land
And when she shines, she really shows you all she can
Oh, Rio, Rio, dance across the Rio Grande
Her name is Rio, she don't need to understand
And I might find her if I'm looking like I can
Oh, Rio, Rio, hear them shout across the land
From mountains in the North down to the Rio Grande
[Outro]
Doo doo doo doo doo doo
Doo doo doo doo doo doo
Doo doo doo doo doo doo doo doo doo doo doo
Rio was written by Nick Rhodes & Roger Taylor (Duran Duran) & Andy Taylor & John Taylor & Simon Le Bon.
Rio was produced by Colin Thurston.
Duran Duran released Rio on Mon May 10 1982.