About the song
“I Will Follow Him” isn’t just a catchy tune; it’s a testament to the transformative power of music and the unexpected paths a song can take. This international phenomenon began not with vocals, but with a melody titled “Chariot,” composed by French musicians Franck Pourcel and Paul Mauriat in 1961.
The song’s first vocal incarnation came from French singer Petula Clark, who recorded a French version titled “Chariot” in 1962. This version soared to the top of the charts in Wallonia and France, showcasing the song’s early potential.
However, the song’s true global domination came with a twist. In 1963, American teenager Little Peggy March recorded an English-language version with completely new lyrics written by Norman Gimbel. This version, titled “I Will Follow Him,” became an unstoppable force. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, making March the youngest female artist ever to achieve that feat. The song’s infectious energy and themes of unwavering devotion resonated with audiences worldwide, topping charts in countries like Australia, Canada, and South Africa.
“I Will Follow Him” didn’t stop with March’s version. The song’s success sparked a wave of international covers. Petula Clark herself recorded an English version, and artists from Italy to Argentina released their interpretations. Dee Dee Sharp included the song on her album “Do the Bird,” while Ricky Nelson even changed the title and lyrics for his own rendition.
The song’s legacy extends beyond the 1960s. In 1982, Dutch singer José Hoebee revived the song with a chart-topping cover in her home country. Even the world of comedy embraced “I Will Follow Him,” with Norwegian comedian Lars Mjøen writing humorous Norwegian lyrics. The song even found its way onto the silver screen, prominently featured in the 1992 film “Sister Act.”
“I Will Follow Him” is a captivating example of how a song can transcend language and cultural boundaries. From its instrumental beginnings to its diverse vocal interpretations, the song continues to capture hearts and inspire new versions even decades after its initial release. So, the next time you hear this timeless classic, remember its remarkable journey, a testament to the universal power of music.
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Lyrics
Love him, I love him, I love him
And where he goes I’ll follow, I’ll follow, I’ll follow
I will follow him
Follow him wherever he may go
There isn’t an ocean too deep
A mountain so high it can keep me away
I must follow him (follow him)
Ever since he touched my hand I knew
That near him I always must be
And nothing can keep him from me
He is my destiny (destiny)
I love him, I love him, I love him
And where he goes I’ll follow, I’ll follow, I’ll follow
He’ll always be my true love, my true love, my true love
From now until forever, forever, forever
I will follow him (follow him)
Follow him wherever he may go
There isn’t an ocean too deep
A mountain so high it can keep, keep me away
Away from my love (I love him, I love him, I love him)
I love him, I love him, I love him
And where he goes I’ll follow, I’ll follow, I’ll follow
He’ll always be my true love, my true love, my true love
From now until forever, forever, forever
I will follow him (follow him)
Follow him wherever he may go
There isn’t an ocean too deep
A mountain so high it can keep, keep me away
Away from my love
And where he goes I’ll follow, I’ll follow, I’ll follow
I know I’ll always love him, I love him, I love him
And where he goes I’ll follow, I’ll follow, I’ll follow
I know I’ll always love him, I love him, I love him
And where he goes I’ll follow