About the song
“I Will Follow Him” isn’t just a song; it’s a global phenomenon with a fascinating backstory. While most know the catchy tune sung by Little Peggy March, the song’s origins lie in the world of French orchestration.
Composed by Franck Pourcel and Paul Mauriat under pseudonyms, the song debuted in 1961 as an instrumental titled “Chariot.” This version, released on Pourcel’s album “Amour, Danse, Et Violons,” showcased the composers’ talent for creating elegant and evocative melodies.
However, the song’s true destiny was found across the Atlantic. In 1962, Petula Clark released a French version with lyrics by Jacques Plante, titled “Chariot.” This version found success in Europe, topping the charts in Wallonia and reaching high positions in France and Flanders. Interestingly, Clark’s English version, the first recording titled “I Will Follow Him,” failed to gain traction in the UK and US.
Meanwhile, fate intervened in the form of a young American singer named Little Peggy March. In 1963, March’s rendition of “I Will Follow Him” with completely new English lyrics by Norman Gimbel, took the world by storm. Her powerful vocals and infectious energy propelled the song to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making her the youngest female artist to achieve this feat at the time.
“I Will Follow Him” wasn’t just a one-hit wonder for March. The song transcended language and cultural barriers, topping charts in countries like Australia, Canada, and South Africa. It even spawned numerous cover versions, including those by Dee Dee Sharp and Ricky Nelson, showcasing the song’s versatility and enduring appeal.
The legacy of “I Will Follow Him” extends beyond the 1960s. In 1992, the song was featured in the film “Sister Act,” introducing it to a new generation of listeners. The song continues to be covered and reinterpreted by artists today, a testament to its timeless melody and relatable theme of unwavering devotion.
So, the next time you hear “I Will Follow Him,” take a moment to appreciate its rich history. From its orchestral beginnings to its chart-topping success with Little Peggy March, the song’s journey is a reminder of the power of music to transcend borders and touch hearts across generations.
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lyrics
I will follow you
Follow you wherever you may go
There isn’t an ocean too deep
A mountain so high it can keep me awayI must follow you
Ever since you touched my hand I know
That near you I always must be
And nothing can keep you from me
You are my destinyI love you, I love you, I love you
And where you go I’ll follow, I’ll follow, I’ll follow
You’ll always be my true love, my true love, my true love
From now until forever, forever, foreverI will follow you
Follow you wherever you may go
There isn’t an ocean too deep
A mountain so high it can keep
Keep me away, away from my loveI love you, I love you, I love you
And where you go I’ll follow, I’ll follow, I’ll follow
You’ll always be my true love, my true love, my true love
From now until forever, forever, foreverI will follow you
Follow you wherever you 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 you go I’ll follow