The single was popularised by Radio 1DJChris Evans, who played it frequently on his radio shows and to introduce guests on his television programme TFI Friday. As a result, having been released in February 1996, it reached number 15 on the UK Singles Chart, paving the way for the success of the next two singles, "You've Got It Bad" and "The Day We Caught the Train", as well as their album Moseley Shoals. It also became a moderate hit in New Zealand, where it peaked at number 37.
^The Riverboat Song (Japanese CD single liner notes). Ocean Colour Scene. MCA Records. 1996. MCD-40021.{{cite AV media notes}}: CS1 maint: others in cite AV media (notes) (link)
^The Riverboat Song (UK 7-inch single sleeve). Ocean Colour Scene. MCA Records. 1996. MCS 40021.{{cite AV media notes}}: CS1 maint: others in cite AV media (notes) (link)
^The Riverboat Song (UK cassette single sleeve). Ocean Colour Scene. MCA Records. 1996. MCSC 40021.{{cite AV media notes}}: CS1 maint: others in cite AV media (notes) (link)
^Moseley Shoals (UK CD album booklet). Ocean Colour Scene. MCA Records. 1996. MCD 60008.{{cite AV media notes}}: CS1 maint: others in cite AV media (notes) (link)