About the song
## Soldier Boy: A Timeless Ballad of Love and Sacrifice
**The Shirelles, 1962**
In the early 1960s, a wave of girl groups swept across the American music scene. Among the most beloved and influential of these groups was The Shirelles. Their harmonies were impeccable, their lyrics relatable, and their energy infectious. One of their most enduring hits, “Soldier Boy,” is a timeless ballad that explores the profound emotions of love, loss, and sacrifice.
Released in 1962, “Soldier Boy” is a poignant tribute to the men who served their country during the Vietnam War. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young woman whose heart is torn apart by the absence of her lover, a soldier stationed far away. The Shirelles’ harmonies capture the bittersweet longing and melancholy that permeates the song.
The opening lines, “Soldier boy, soldier boy, where are you?” immediately set the tone for the song. The repetition of the phrase creates a sense of urgency and desperation. The woman’s voice is filled with both love and sorrow as she yearns for her lover’s return. The bridge of the song, where the lyrics “I’ll be waiting, soldier boy, for you” are sung with particular emotion, further emphasizes the depth of her devotion.
One of the most striking aspects of “Soldier Boy” is the way in which the Shirelles manage to convey such powerful emotions without resorting to melodrama. Their voices are filled with a sense of vulnerability and sincerity that resonates with listeners of all ages. The song’s simple, yet effective melody provides the perfect backdrop for the lyrics, allowing them to shine through.
“Soldier Boy” remains a beloved classic for many reasons. It is a testament to the enduring power of love, even in the face of adversity. It is a tribute to the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families. And it is a beautiful example of the art of songwriting, a song that has touched the hearts of millions of people around the world.
Video
Lyrics
Soldier boy,
Oh, my little soldier boy,
I’ll be true to you.
You were my first love
And you’ll be my last love.
I will never make you blue.
I’ll be true to you.
In this whole world
You can love but one girl.
Let me be that one girl,
For I’ll be true to you.
Wherever you go,
My heart will follow.
I love you so.
I’ll be true to you.
Take my love with you
To any port or foreign shore.
Darling, you must feel for sure,
I’ll be true to you.
Soldier boy,
Oh, my little soldier boy,
I’ll be true to you.