No matter if you are sailing, paddling a canoe or just floating lazily in an inner tube, put your iPod in a waterproof case, slip on a pair of rubber-soled shoes and enjoy these tunes that pay homage to the rivers of the world:

"River" (Performed by Joni Mitchell)

In this song, Mitchell sings about wanting to find a river to skate away on after losing a man who truly loved her. Unfortunately, her song says that because she currently lives in a warm climate, skating just isn't possible.

"Grand Coulee Dam" (Performed by Woody Guthrie)

Guthrie pays homage to the majestic King Canadian River, whose power reportedly tore some boats to pieces. With the help of the Grand Coulee Dam, though, workers were able to tame the river, using its might to move turbines and generate electricity.

"Ballad of Easy Rider" (Performed by the Byrds)

Released as part of the "Easy Rider" soundtrack, this tune speaks of the freedom offered by rivers. The lead singer wants to get out of town so badly that he's willing to let the flowing river take him wherever it wants.

"Lazy River" (Performed by Louis Armstrong)

Armstrong sings of the peace that comes with just sitting and watching a river move slowly and steadily onward. The song encourages listeners to slow down a bit and simply appreciate the beauty around them.

"Black Water" (Performed by the Doobie Brothers)

This tune honors one of the most well-known rivers, the Mighty Mississippi. The Doobie Brothers sing of the allure of these black waters, which keep on rolling no matter what. The singer's spirit is willing, and his raft is ready to go.

"Yellow River" (Performed by Elton John)

Told from the perspective of a soldier, "Yellow River" talks about one man's desire to put down his gun, leave the fighting behind and return to the one place on Earth that he truly loves. At Yellow River, the singer hopes to find inner peace and reunite with a girl that he left behind.