The Singing Nun – Dominique (1963 )

About the song

## Dominique: A Timeless Melody of Faith and Hope

**Dominique**, a song that has captured hearts for decades, is a testament to the enduring power of music. Released in 1963, this French-language ballad became a global sensation, primarily due to the enchanting voice of the Belgian singer, Soeur Sourire (Sister Smile). Born Jeanine Deckers, she was a nun who found solace and expression in music.

The song’s lyrics, penned by Soeur Sourire herself, tell a poignant tale of a young nun named Dominique. Dominique is a simple soul, devoted to her faith and her religious duties. Her life is filled with prayer, contemplation, and a deep connection to the divine. Through her song, Soeur Sourire invites us to share in Dominique’s spiritual journey, offering a glimpse into the quiet and contemplative life of a nun.

The melody of “Dominique” is both serene and uplifting. It features a gentle, flowing rhythm that complements the song’s spiritual themes. The instrumentation is sparse, allowing Soeur Sourire’s voice to take center stage. Her vocals are filled with emotion and sincerity, conveying a sense of peace and tranquility. The song’s arrangement is simple yet effective, creating a timeless and memorable piece of music.

One of the most striking aspects of “Dominique” is its universal appeal. Despite its religious themes, the song has resonated with audiences of all faiths and backgrounds. This is likely due to the song’s ability to evoke feelings of hope, comfort, and inspiration. The lyrics are filled with uplifting messages about faith, love, and the power of the human spirit.

Soeur Sourire’s decision to pursue a career in music was a bold one, as it was unusual for a nun to engage in such a public activity. However, her talent and dedication quickly won her a devoted following. “Dominique” became her signature song, and it continues to be celebrated today as a classic of popular music.

In conclusion, “Dominique” is a timeless masterpiece that has touched the lives of millions of people. It is a song that celebrates faith, hope, and the power of the human spirit. Soeur Sourire’s beautiful voice and the song’s evocative lyrics have made it a beloved classic that will continue to inspire and uplift audiences for generations to come.

Video

Lyrics

Dominique, nique, nique, over the land he plods
And sings a little song
Never asking for reward
He just talks about the Lord
He just talks about the Lord

At a time when Johnny Lackland
Over England was the King
Dominique was in the backland
Fighting sin like anything

Now a heretic, one day
Among the thorns forced him to crawl
Dominique with just one prayer
Made him hear the good Lord’s call

Without horse or fancy wagon
He crossed Europe up and down
Poverty was his companion
As he walked from town to town

To bring back the straying liars
And the lost sheep to the fold
He brought forth the Preaching Friars
Heaven’s soldier’s, brave and bold

One day, in the budding Order
There was nothing left to eat
Suddenly two angels walked in
With a loaf of bread and meat

Dominique once, in his slumber
Saw the Virgin’s coat unfurled
Over Frairs without number
Preaching all around the world

Grant us now, oh Dominique
The grace of love and simple mirth
That we all may help to quicken
Godly life and truth on earth

Dominique, nique, nique s’en allait tout simplement
Routier pauvre et chantant
En tous chemins, en tous lieux, il ne parle que du bon Dieu

Il ne parle que du bon Dieu
A l’e poque ou Jean-sans-Terre de’ Angleterre etait Roi
Dominique, notre Pere, combattit les Albigeois
Repeat first 4 lines: Chorus

Ni chameau, ni diligence il parcout l’Europe a pied
Scandinavie ou Provence dans la sainte pauvrete

Refrain

Enflamma de toute ecole filles et garcons pleins d’ardeur
Et pour semer la Parole inventa les Freres-Precheurs

Refrain

Chez Dominique et ses freres le pain s’en vint a manquer
Et deux anges se presenterent portant de grands pains dores

Refrain

Dominique vit en reve les precheurs du monde entier
Sous le manteau de la Vierge en grand nombre rassembles

Refrain

Dominique, mon bon Pere, garde-nous simples et gais
Pour annoncer a nos freres la Vie et la Verite

Refrain