The Shirelles were an influential American girl group in the early 1960s, a… Read Full Bio ↴The Shirelles were an influential American girl group in the early 1960s, and they were the very first girl group to have a number one single on the Billboard Hot 100. The members of the quartet were Shirley Owens (who was the lead singer for the most part), Doris Coley, Beverly Lee, and Addie "Micki" Harris. The quartet formed in New Jersey in 1958, and went on to release a string of hits including "Baby It's You", "Mama Said", and the #1 Pop hits "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" and "Soldier Boy". Their "Sha La La" became an international hit when covered by the British group Manfred Mann, and "Boys" was covered by [artsit]the Beatles (Ringo Starr singing lead).The Beatles also covered "Baby It's You" on their "Please Please Me" album. Although they had no more charting hits after 1967, the Shirelles continued recording for a small but devoted audience well into the 1970s and continued to tour and perform into the early 1980s. In 1968, Coley left the group to remarry and raise her family, and the group continued as a trio. In 1975, she returned only to replace Owens who departed to begin a solo career. On June 10, 1982, after a live concert in Atlanta, Harris succumbed to a heart attack (age 42); she was replaced by Louie Bethune. Shortly, the group went into semi-retirement, though they did accept an invitation to record backup vocals for Dionne Warwick in the late 1980s. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996. On February 4, 2000, Coley lost a battle with breast cancer (age 58). The group was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2002.

Soldier Boy
The Shirelles Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

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

Overall Meaning

The Shirelles's song "Soldier Boy" is a heartfelt love song about a young woman's unwavering devotion to her beloved soldier boy. The lyrics express her commitment to him, promising to be true to him no matter what. She believes that he's her first love and he'll also be her last love. She assures him that she'll never hurt or betray him, which is why he should trust in her love. In this world, people can love multiple partners, but she only wants him to love her. She's confident that she can satisfy him in every way and be the only girl he ever needs.

The song's refrain emphasizes the fact that wherever he goes, her heart will follow. Her love for him is so strong that distance and time won't diminish it. She'll always cherish their memories together and long for the day they'll be reunited. Even if he gets posted to a different port or foreign shore, she'll remain true to him. She'll be waiting for him and will always welcome him back with open arms.

Overall, "Soldier Boy" is a beautiful tribute to the sacrifices made by servicemen and their loved ones. It's a reminder that no matter how far we are from the people we care about, our love for them can still bridge the distance.

Line by Line Meaning

Soldier boy
Opening line of the song

Oh, my little soldier boy
Addressing the person as a young boy, expressing fondness

I'll be true to you
Promise to be loyal and honest

You were my first love
Talking about the past, how they fell in love

And you'll be my last love
Stating that no one will come after this person, they'll be together forever

I will never make you blue
Promise to not hurt or make the person sad

In this whole world
Referring to the vastness of the world

You can love but one girl
Saying that it's impossible to love more than one person genuinely

Let me be that one girl
Offering to be the person's only love interest

For I'll be true to you
Reiterating loyalty and honesty

Wherever you go
Stating that distance won't affect their love

My heart will follow
Saying that the person will always be in their heart

I love you so
Professing love for the person

Take my love with you
Asking the person to remember their love when they're apart

To any port or foreign shore
Saying that their love is not limited by geographical boundaries

Darling, you must feel for sure
Assuring the person of their love

I'll be true to you
Ending the song with the same promise of loyalty and honesty

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: FLORENCE GREEN, LUTHER DIXON

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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Comments from YouTube:

@emilysmith4045

3y↑846

My Marine husband was killed in Vietnam in August 1967. This song came on the radio while I was driving home from the funeral home the night of his visitation. It brought me to tears then and still does every time I hear it. Beautiful and meaningful song. Love it and all the memories it brings back to me. Thank you.

@loriwilber4652

3y↑67

Thank you to your husband for his service. So sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you.

@emilysmith4045

3y↑30

Thank you

@Dragon_rls

2y↑32

My condolences Ms. Emily. I thank you on behalf of your deceased husband's service,

@carlcameron85

2y↑20

Wow what a comment 👏

@robertsmith7869

2y↑31

My moms cousin died in Vietnam in the 101st do you know I enlisted because of him ? Was stationed with the 101st myself and was wounded myself in Iraq .. I’m sorry for your loss

124 More Replies...

@maureenfischer5650

6y↑331

At 15 I met my soldier boy. Played this all the time he was in Vietnam. Married him at 19. Now 69 and just celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary. It takes me back to our youth. Thank you The Shirelles.

@hopeperez5072

2y↑5

What a beautiful and inspirational story,I know times have changed,but with good people,good thoughts,and good memories,you bring it all back.❤with love,God bless you both😊

@brenda9410

2y↑1

❤❤❤❤❤❤

@TrillGawdThibodeaux

2y↑3

Don't make me cry

@taylordw

2y↑1

@maureenfischer Bless you

@theresacarmody702

2y↑2

That’s so cute ☘️💚

11 More Replies...

@rbc_matedad3435

9y↑1.2K

Danced with my high school sweetheart to this song in 1962 and at our wedding in 1964 and played it at his funeral 32 years later. He was in the Air Force and in my heart is will always be my soldier boy.

@JasonPerryman

9y↑33

+Mary Delk Ugh you're gonna make me cry!!! (From a guy who rolls his eyes at youtubers saying that the slightest things on here makes them cry!)

@ReadmanJ

9y↑31

+Mary Delk That's a beautiful story :'(

@LoafEye

9y↑20

please tell me more stories of the 60s

@FOXYPEACH2

8y↑29

Beautiful.... but sad story.... I met my hometown soldier boy 60 years too late, after almost 3 years of corresponding... the Springtime he was coming back home from the west coast to the east.... he died suddenly of heart failure. I would send him this You Tube song on his birthday.

@wmperkins25

8y↑22

so wonderful to hear of someone who loved their spouse for years and mourned at their loss -thank you for sharing such a heartfelt story=

75 More Replies...

@areallygoodlawyer7526

1y↑16

I remember when my Mum used to sing this to me as a kid, and I used to always cry and sob to this -- it felt like the perfect song to relax to and to calm myself down with. This song holds so much value in my heart.

@robertmrugala7898

5y↑123

1962, I was a freshman in high school. Six short years later I was in the central highlands of Vietnam. May all those who served in that war be remembered for doing what their country asked of them. Sadly it was a political war that took so many lives and wounded so many others for no reason at all.

@TSM8088

2y↑7

he-ro: a person who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities.
Yes, that is you Robert, and so too, all your brave brothers who served in the Viet Nam War.

@i.marr.6688

2y↑4

@@TSM8088 Well said, I was only a baby when the Vietnam broke out but I have a memory of staying up with my mum and the news came on the B52's were bombing and to me they looked like they were hovering and raining bombs I remember looking out my window thinking the bombs were falling on us, I asked my mam to look and she said "That's far away in another country " I was that young i thought we were getting bombed. Respect to all the men who fought and died in the Vietnam war

@melodyz5592

2y↑8

Robert, for some reason this song came into my mind this morning so I looked it up .... my brother died 7 years after and from wounds in Viet Nam. It was a huge loss and still feel it especially his children that were so little when he left them. I have seen many other men waste away these past few years after suffering as Vets. It cuts deep into our hearts because as you said political war lives lost for no good cause as we were so led to believe at the time.....very tragic stuff we are realizing....my brother was 18 just out of high school and he and my parents thought he had no choice when he was drafter and he wanted to "fight for his country" such a horrendous destruction of lives American and Vietnamese...and it continues.

@i.marr.6688

2y↑5

@@melodyz5592 i'm sorry to hear that about your brother he was brave and didn't dodge the draft or flee to Canada Vietnam was before my time I was born in 1966 but got very interested in the war ,I have a collection of magazines called "The Nam Experience 1965-75" I send you my condolence and respects . God Bless you and your family

@michaelfranklin5749

46w↑1

I refused induction. Would not contribute to this political conflict. Was arrested- went to court. Granted 2 years alternate service- 5 years probation. Completed my requirements and received Presidential Pardon. I did it my way and my conscience. Great respect to all that served and those that took another path.

1 More Replies...

@anntillotson4716

48w↑70

My soldier boy went into the army when we graduated in 1962. This song came out and we danced to it at last high school dance. Still together and married for 57 years❤

@williampfaffjr7684

7y↑516

I deployed to Vietnam with the 1st Bde of the 101st Airborne Division in July 1965. Before leaving, all of the ladies wanted to dance with me while this was playing. There were many tears shed then and everyone of those ladies are still so dear to me today. God Bless all of you. Amen

@josephyelverton46

6y↑11

God's speed my brother

@tomsilberberg1978

5y↑5

Did they still want to dance with you when you got back?

Not being critical, just genuinely curious from a history perspective.

@ginnymeljac2300

5y↑13

Bill Pfaff Jr thank you for your service. My brother was also in Vietnam. You are heroes. RIP Jon 🇺🇸

@eyecfreedom9599

5y↑7

God bless u from scotland

@williampfaffjr7684

5y↑1

@@eyecfreedom9599 Thank you for your kind reply. God Bless and guide you Miss Carol...

47 More Replies...

@brandyovergard992

4y↑49

Please everyone, pray for my Son in Marine Boot Camp. Pray for his progress and pray for the goodness of humanity. God Bless Us All. I love my Amazing Son so much. God Bless us all. My Son makes me want to be a better human being. Pass on kindness.❣💕❤🧡

@MyBlackvelvet

9y↑471

My Soldier Boy......my husband Vietnam Vet...love you and miss you so much R.I.P.

@Madminute1968

6y↑28

May your husband Forever Rest Easy and in Peace****
I served June 67 to June 68 Qui Nhon.

@josephyelverton46

6y↑16

God only knows how l miss Them all!

@raymondovalle9349

6y↑15

RIP SIR ,One more GI Reporting Sir.

@josephyelverton46

6y↑10

God's speed my brother.Catch you on the other side.

@robbyhighland4280

5y↑6

My Mother, may the LORD keep her precious Soul @ rest, used to sing this song to me when I was a little child.

31 More Replies...

@songsfromthelord888

2y↑88

I am a 75 yr old Vietnam Vet, and my Heart goes out to anyone who has suffered great loss in their lives...from any cause, or for any reason...I guess that takes in most of us doesn't it?
This song breaks my heart ❤️ for many reasons and causes me to weep very deeply. 💔
Ideally, the man in this song would be living a clean life before God, and he would truly worthy of having a woman, who is being true to him as well.
True love demands true love in return...
For another thing, it reminds me very pointedly that God wants, and has every right to expect, us, to be true to Him, just like He is true to us.
I want to be God's soldier boy who's always true to Him, and true to myself, and true to others, — at all times, under all circumstances, — as God helps me. 🙂

@johnpelletier4060

47w↑1

AMEN & AMEN
✝️❤️🙏!!!!!!!!

@jim6025

44w

I’m Canadian. Thank you for your service.

@ConnieFelan

42w↑1

Well said… I salute you…🙏🏼❤️

@robertmcginness4610

37w

That was beautiful my friend. Not many have any consideration for the sufferings of others. Thank you kind sir. I'm an independent living service connected disabled veteran, but my sufferings unsung in the world are akin to St Paul & Alexander Scholchenezen under the Soviet Union. Even being a Slave in the USA. No one cares. Many mock. Denied reperations, cause I'm white/ North African, so I don't fit their made up cookie cutter requirements. But as you seem to know & Amight God knows. God bless. It so nice to her a non mocking kind word.

@mr.k2921

29w

Malaysian here. I'll look you up in heaven one day. God bless you, brother in Christ

@lanafaulhaber3282

10y↑900

My boyfriend/husband was in the Air Force and were in love when he went to Germany. We thought this song said it best so it became our song.We are married now for 50 years and 5 adult children who have their own children now, we have 14 Grandchildren and 3 Great Grandchildren . We have a wonderful family.

@78recordrepair

10y↑8

lana Faulhaber Are you sure kisses sweeter than wine, wouldn't be more appropriate? :)

@Idkmanlemmeedit

10y↑18

lana Faulhaber Always glad to see people alive from all the way back then.

@dmee-o8d

10y↑10

Derek Maldonado , Jesus Fucking Christ I'm only 70 years old. Are you real?

@Idkmanlemmeedit

10y↑2

Don Mee Toooo lazy to do match, bruh. Also, i was never, and i mean never asking you. So why did you post that comment twice? Must be because of your old age. Zing.

@Nomessiah

10y↑2

Thats nice I wish i stayed with my family. But what can u do now right.

53 More Replies...

@TheTRAINOR11

7y↑127

One of my mother's favorites for my father. He was in the army and she used to play this all the time. They're reunited in heaven.

@juneysmith8642

2y↑1

The Vietnam War was such a terrible thing but music like this kept us family thank you Shirelles

@janeposton8102

❤

@texzifn1442

4y↑26

my grandma use to sing this to my grandpa they where together since they where 16 until they where 65 my grandma travelled the world with my veteran grandpa love and miss you so much my angels RIP 😭❤️

@josephfdanza4937

7y↑401

1962: I was 16yrs old and a Junior in High School, and loving this song. Today I'm 72yrs old and still loving this song forever.....2-1-18

@shane9747

7y↑7

Vietnam vet 69 to 72 us army wife sang this to me as I left for nam

@carlahead5072

6y↑4

My mom was also 16 in 1962 and was a sophomore in high school. She graduated in 1965. I consider this music real music-today's music has absolutely no style or character whatsoever. She too is 72 the same age as you ma'am. Her birthday is April 9th,1946. There's 2 months difference in yours and hers age. We're you born in 1946 also,ma'am?

@josephfdanza4937

6y↑3

Carla I was born 10/25/1945 on Staten Island, NY and I graduated from HS in 1963.......Joe D.....

@carllawson9567

6y↑4

Joseph F Danza cool I'm 40 but I love all these 50s 60s song :)

@josephfdanza4937

6y↑1

Carla did you graduate from Curtis HS if so I will look you up in the 63 year book....I was born in Sunnyside Hosp. but it was torn down and I was brought up in West Brighton...Joe D....

14 More Replies...

@jonim4760

12y↑34

After sixy years of marriage, this week my mom had this played at my Dads funeral. They have been together since they were young teens and he retired from the Army where he served in both Korea and Vietnam.

@henryverdugo9889

4y↑28

As an Iraqi Freedom Vet U.S. Army of 14 years.
I would like to thank my brothers and sisters who served in Vietnam thank you for your service. Because of you all is why I served. HOOAH

@connieleach2264

7y↑46

This was my song for my boyfriend/fiance during the Vietnam war. Every time I hear it I still think of him
Unfortunately he didn't come home. I'll never forget him & have never gotten over the loss of him.

@loriwilber4652

3y↑5

Prayers are with you. So sorry for your loss.

@lifewithoutyouful

10y↑226

this song came out when I was dating my husband who was in the army we have been together for 53 years

@seaofmadness2622

6y↑2

Happy anniversary! God bless thats wonderful! 🌹

@thomaswhittington1984

6y↑1

barb wilson blue

@marbo6429

Did you cheat on him in the 1st two weeks or just before he came home?

@westside6901

5y↑2

@@marbo6429 most likely not, wasnt as corrupted with sluts as it is now 😂

@marbo6429

@@westside6901 I forgot to add 'or stay true'

2 More Replies...

@lauren578

3y↑97

To all our soldier boys!We love you so much!Thank you for protecting all of us🇺🇸

@ckkimfootloose10

Protecting from what? USA is always invaders! Wake up

@broadwaylai249

sad to write this but: don't let the sh-t propaganda of the USMilitary take over your brain anymore. Fight the programming. Average Americans are like toilet paper to the US Military: the people at the top become hugely rich if they invade another country (bullet: 5 thousand dollars, gallon of gas 4-000 dollars). They are not protecting you AT ALL: They are ripping off your hard earned dollars. The Mafia are good people compared to the US Military.

@broadwaylai249

The US military murdered 1 1/2 million, maybe 2 million Vietnamese people: for not giving up their natural resources for exploitation. :(((( Henry Kissinger: The Noble Executioner

@diannekerr-waltz3325

20w↑7

Makes me think of my Dad. He was in three wars, WW2, Korea, and Vietnam.

@danielmiller4159

3y↑79

May God bless all the brave soldiers who fought and died in the Vietnam War! May the memories of your lives flourish through out eternity 😇🙏❤️

@geraldstidham2400

2y↑1

Thank you so very much Daniel. It means a lot to me especially after the way we were received and treated when we returned home. Pleiku, South Vietnam, 67-68.

@anitahernandez1644

War or conflict ????
And the confusion continues Those times every thing was a big confusion our kids were rebellion in schools Vietnam was happening the whole world was changing Listen to another brick on the wall by Pink Floyd it tells you how our kids were facing

@knitwit7082

@@geraldstidham2400 My first husband was a Marine in the Tet in January 1968. I stayed with him for 10 years until the violence from PTSD got so bad I had to leave.
For the last 32 years, I have been married to an Airman (1968-1988) who was not sent to VN. He went to Alaska! You know, "the needs of the Air Force" and all that. He "walked the line" like the Johnny Cash song. I am so glad he didn't have to go. Coming from a military family (USA/USAF) he would have gone and served honorably. God spared him from the Hell that was Viet Nam.
My youngest daughter dated a guy when she was in law school. Turned out he was the grandson of the Navy aviator POW officer who wrote "When Hell Was in Session." She met him and shook his hand and told him I still have his book. She said he was a wonderful old man. He died shortly after she met him. 🌹RIP Admiral Denton. Thank you for your lifetime of courageous service to America.

@rayeannwicketts1208

I am so sorry for your loss. 😢

@geocaching63

8y↑142

At 70yo, and a Navy Vet of the Vietnam Era, this song brings back memories, as well as tears!

Thanks for posting!!

@geraldstidham2400

2y↑4

I’m a Vietnam Vet as well. Pleiku. 67/68. During beginning of the TET Offensive. I’m 76.

@lynnadams7017

2y↑1

Thank you all that served

@tmartin555

Thank you for your service ❤️🙏

@derekmyers3258

3y↑72

It's Friday, July 1, 2022, and I've decided to start at 1959 and listen to the top 100 until I can't take it anymore. As you can see, I'm on 1962. Wow, what a feeling this is giving me. I'm 46 years old yet I am indeed a product of the oldies which I grew up on, thanks to my family having amazing taste in music. To all the people older than me, thank you for living the stories you lived while this music was new and exciting, and to all the people younger than me, never let it die - this stuff is very important!

@rs3377

2y↑1

I am 45 now be 46 in july but same here my mother loved the 50s and 60s music so I grew up listening to it as well!

@anitahernandez1644

2y↑2

Out younger generation are not interested to hear stories about vietnam Vietnam
I’m told it was only a conflict not a war although so many died fighting in this awful place

@knitwit7082

Derek Myers • I was born in 1953. I remember it all! I recently bought my husband a bumper sticker for his "mid-life crisis" red Turbo 6-speed convertible British sports car. It says, "I may be old, but I saw all the cool bands." He saw many of them in concert.
Therefore, I hate him 😫
We married kinda late in life, but we have had 32 good years, and he is still the only one for me.

@knitwit7082

2y↑1

@@anitahernandez1644 What an insult to all the great people from my generation who died there! Remember when people spit at and cursed the returning military members in uniform? My husband (USAF 1968-1888) was told not to wear his uniform in public. Sick. At least the younger guys get more respect. VN vets didn't.

@TD-236

I turned 30 this year and am here because I love this music from before my time ❤️ second everything you have said!

3 More Replies...

@jeanielowe3246

5y↑45

God bless all service men and women past and present!!

@sirightchoo

2y↑14

I heard this song in the series "11.22.63" and it is so beautiful. I absolutely in love with this song now

@ezkirk1239

43w↑1

That's the EXACT reason why I'm listening to this Song......Episode 7

@7959225

8y↑20

I nearly wore this record out when my husband left for USMC boot camp, and then to DaNang Vietnam! Praise God he came home! We have been married for 47 years!

@kimberlyisherwood4564

7959225 congrats to and God bless on this memorial day 2019.

@tomevans4402

35w

Peace and love 🙏

@donnakoster4685

52w↑28

This song played at my Brother and Sister-in-Law's Wedding, July 4, 1968. He was on three day leave from the War. He came out OK but NEVER TALKED ABOUT IT They were married for 38 years until my Sister-IN-Law Passed away from Breast Cancer in 2003. They are buried in a Military Cementary. RIP, ALYCE and RICHIE, You are finally together again. ❤❤❤🎉

@LucyLovettLestrange

38w

My great uncle never liked to talk about Vietnam 🇻🇳 either

@LuisGomez-nw6fv

35w

DAMMM.....NO WORDS😢

@virginareuwer1735

4y↑35

Still Looking for my Soldier Boy, who meant so much to me, left for the Army, in The Late 50s, Never go to see him again, Miss You So Much Joe ♥

@hermanjr47

4y↑1

Sorry to hear that

@deanmartel7922

Hello Virginia, How are you doing?

@pennyshuberg3406

4y↑2

Same here my first love, fiance left for Viet Nam 1963. Never made it home. My Heart is still broken!

@darkstar1650

Still watch the Wanderers til this day...

@stewartb8869

32w

💔💔💔

@gwynnielsen5081

3y↑7

Oh, boy! Does this tune bring back memories of the decade. I remember listening to this song on the radio and singing along.

@racingdodger55

9y↑9

I was six years old when this came out. My Mom ran a small town cafe and this was on the juke box. I played it everytime I came across a nickel . I still love this song 54 years later!

@juliakocke9970

13y↑18

Reunited with my first love after 34 years. He was in the Navy so this was his song. We have been together for 8 1/2 months so far. Never stopped loving him or checking on him over the years. So thankful to have him back. Never give up on your dreams. Or your first love. : )

@michaelmorales4381

Amazing story. I hope you are still together.

@isaiahpaul9028

9y↑206

One of my favorites during Vietnam era. I was at Fort Bragg, I cried when it came on the radio. I didn't want to go back to war, but I did.
David Paul
Rocky Point, NC

@jasonwalton5833

9y↑7

+Isaiah Paul,true soldier boy.your the man.

@JasonPerryman

9y↑9

+Isaiah Paul I'm glad you made it back man. I'm honoured to type this and have some communication with a brave man from that era and war. God bless.

@TheGospelQuartetParadise

9y↑4

+Isaiah Paul I was in Germany from 1964 - 1967.

@vrgcvyw8k

9y↑4

+Leander Williams I was in Germany 1965-67.

@leeannejordan2314

9y↑5

thank you

10 More Replies...

@francesneal5133

1y↑3

Loved this song when it came out and still love listening to it . Where did all the good years go ? 1960’s

@lostinadream100

9y↑19

This was my mothers song to my Daddy he was sent to Germany in the Army. They were married in 1963 both hard working loving parents. I love hearing my mom sing this song even to this day. As my father has passed on in 2009.

@MrShashaboy

9y↑2

My phone messed up, mean to hit like not dislike, sorry

@caseyjones9716

3y↑13

My cousin had just left for Vietnam when I heard this . . . Thank god he came home. So many didn't in those early years.
To all my Army, Air Force, Navy and Marine and Coastie families, bless you all.

@ashley-iw1bz

4y↑43

i listen to this song everyday because it was my grandmothers absolute favorite and said that this song was for her and her husband, it was so cute. she passed away 5/17/21 and i miss her everyday, mom mom i love you so much . rest easy please 🤍 i’ll be in heaven soon enough

@petergriffin8187

3y↑1

died right on my birthday😭

@savanahrae1

6y↑13

I AM STILL WITH MY SOLDIER BOY 42 YEARS LATER. I LOVE HIM.

@theresacarmody702

Congratulations

@jostevi5844

4y↑2

For my best friend Joan who loved this song she is getting buried tomorrow we had great times Joan with this song it’s getting played tomorrow at her funeral love you Joan and I will always have the memories 💔🌹

@andrews8458

4y↑6

I'm 14 yrs old and I heard this in my grandpa's car today and now it's on my playlist

@hanniemarie

4y↑25

I frequent to this song, it's so very interesting to read all these comments from years ago, a year ago, etc. I pray for everyone's safety as this pandemic continues. Youtube is such a unique platform, truly. Rest in peace to each beautiful soul. <3

@dvlaries

12y↑28

Soldier Boy is nothing less than an etched-in-stone masterpiece; it simply couldn't have been done any better. Unlike typical call and response in most group records, here every member of the group sings every word of the song. And whoever did that immortal guitar solo really deserved on-record credit too because it's as unforgettable as the vocals. In 100 years people will still readily understand why this was so popular.

@cynthia6637

7y↑28

One amazing song from 1962 , Many of our guys were leaving for Vietnam at this time, Then here comes this song released at the same time... Bravo for our Soldiers ... Great song from The Shirelles that made this one of their # one song

@carolmigliaccio5353

4y↑7

Was 13 in 1962 in junior high, @ 71 I still love all of these songs.

@josephhooks2387

3y↑17

This was truly one of the greatest songs from the early 1960's. Thank you Shirley Owens!

@HopeNazir

3y↑1

Annie McGillen Keough was the actual author of the song. She sold it without a lawyer present and they essentially stole it, stripped her name off of it. She never got anything other than the small amount she got at first. Never recognized.
I don't know how people steal other people's stuff like that and live with themselves.

@johnfulton4061

And thank you Addie Beverly and Doris

@wiggles9771

4y↑3

This MANY MANY YEARS AGO was a Favorite of mine... We had the very BEST MUSIC of all times. My husband ended up being sent to Greenlnd while he was in the Air Force when we had only been married a few weeks. I shall ALWAYS REMEMBER THIS SONG..... THANK YOU FOR SHARING..

@Z3N1TY0

2y↑4

These comments are so sadly wholesome.
I’m a 12 year old listening to other music from ‘62 since one of my favorite songs was written originally back then.
Respect to the soldier boys!!!

@fatjec

5y↑11

The best song ever. My stepdad went to Korea and he cried over this song

@chuckc111

6y↑17

During basic training @ Ft. Benning in 1966, another recruit snuck a record player into the barracks and this was one of the few records he had, gave us pause to think of what the future had in store for us. Lots of melancholy memories here!

@rhondaboncutter5812

5y↑23

One of my favorites growing up! Born in 1953! Still love this! I grew up with Music, my whole life!

@virtualrealitygamer1488

1y↑2

My army boyfriend was also killed in Vietnam 1967 I had his little girl,yes this song was out❤

@josephb456

4y↑48

"'I am proud to have been able to walk point for my comrades, and pray that the same thing does not happen to any of them. ....I'm glad to be getting out of this place." -Andrew Brannan

@Highlander_Red

4y↑3

@Commander Cody Well how can you tell? You weren’t a Vietnam vet, not a man with ptsd, nor a man of his same attributes. If you say trauma is no excuse then why is there an appeal for temporary insanity in the American court of law? Rather take trauma than that because atleast you got background checks.

@saucyjack2941

3y↑2

I can only imagine what Andrew went through. This is where films like Rambo, although seen as a kick ass action film, actually had a lot to say about the fate of Vietnam vets. Born on the 4th of July too. Doesn’t excuse him killing Dinkheller, but can explain why he did. God speed to all who serve.

@rebelsoldier0

8y↑5

that song still rocked when I joined the Army in 69. still brings memories to this very day.

@jamesrobinson3509

4y↑3

Everytime I was deployed my wife played this song, I survived the military and unfortunately I outlived her. I miss you my Love

@alistairhorn2239

4y↑14

my mom gave me this seven single when my husband was called to do his national service in the Rhodesian Air Force, we are still together, married 49 years, still brings tears to my eyes.

@jasonwest6500

2y↑1

HEY YOU"RE NOT THE ONLY ONE MY DEAD

GRAND FATHER SAMMIE R SANSONIE WAS ALSO IN THE

UNITED STATES AMERICAN ARMY AIR FORCE 🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

@claudettewilcher9376

11y↑19

Brings back a lot of memories!! Love the song!

@fqexpat

6y↑24

In '62 I was a year away from graduating from high school. I'd hear this song and thought it was just another love song. No big deal. Then, in '65 I was in the Army, home on leave before my division was headed to Vietnam. My friends threw me a "going away" party and this song got played a few times and took on a whole new meaning. Long story short, she really was "true" to me! "Jodie" didn't have a shot. Now, when I hear this song, remember that time, I still get the willies. War, what's it good for? Absolutely nothin'!

@saucyjack2941

3y↑2

My friend. If you don’t mind, I would like to talk to you about a documentary I’m putting together. Please let me know if you’re interested in sharing your stories.

@terryolson4927

4y↑5

I joined the Marine Corps in 65. At the Naval Reserve dances they played this song. In 67 shipped out for Vietnam. The girl from high school that I was still in love with broke up with me. Everytime I hear this song a bit of my heart breaks off.

@janeposton8102

I hope you did have a lady that truly stayed with you & gave you love. When I wrote letters to my much loved late Hubby who was Australian Army Helicopter Pilot, & I often played this song.. when he came back he said he kinda knew from the words in the letters that I was listening to this song. Take heart & be strong to enjoy your life now

@ski4211

11y↑101

One of the first times I heard this, I knew that I was destined to be a "soldier boy". I spent a total of 17 years service, and to this day... I love this song. I have been long retired, but this song has not.!

@edjurgens5163

5y↑2

Bless you for surviving i hated every minute i was abused badly by drill sargents Norris and Huggins because i got sick dry shaved me and hung boots around my neck and made me train like that i was drafted last group to date they should have exacuted Johnson for vietnam

@QueenGurmehar

4y↑1

Thank you for your service

@deanawade5878

Thank you for your service

@loriwilber4652

Thank you so much for your service!

@scottricke4553

3y↑4

I danced with Susan Blakley in 1963 as a 15 year old and I remember her and this song almost years 60 years later. It was a special time that will live in my heart.

@marywilks3231

7y↑62

I could listen oldies all day long😍

@chriskyle8750

No songs like this any more man.... Loving it all over again..

@davidwacko6623

6y↑2

from film the wandeers

@deniselynne1966

12y↑11

Love this. I remember listening to this as a little girl with my momma. Lost her in May. Beautiful memories((,:

@barbaraproctor-nw4te

Yu polliack

@deniselynne1966

@@barbaraproctor-nw4te rude much?

@damiensteinrich9677

5y↑6

I was born in 85' and I have a strange infatuation with this era of music. Also heard this song on 11.22.63 and as a US Army veteran thought I should give it a full listen.

@ezkirk1239

43w

I'm watching that Series right now....Episode #7.....& is the reason why I pull up this YOUTUBE VIDEO....was 2 yrs old when this song came out....

@hollygeorge7301

7y↑8

My mum would always sing this to me as a child. 37 yrs old now and still have the memories as if it was only yesterday rest easy in heaven mum forever in my heart.

@c.eso9045

3y↑6

My grandma had a cassette of this in her car!! I would literally listen,rewind, listen, rewind!! RIP PAPA GUS! and love you too Grandma Sarille!

@c.eso9045

still my favorite song! Love you dad too!

@ellenpearljackson5219

6y↑7

today is Veterans Day and we say to our soldiers all over the world thank you for your sacrifice and we say to the fallen heroes ultimate sacrifice we ask God to let them be at peace and we also pray for their families thank you God for America and thank you for our heroes we say to each and everyone of you we love you and thank you again

@deanmary1969

7y↑3

We have been married 49years this song was playing a bunch when I left ...came home 50yrs this last December 16,2017 time does fly to all people of the world peace always works peace on earth good will to all God's children sooo with that...amen amen amen ..peace be with all people of the world....Gods blessings and speed forever and a day 💞

@tammytoon4344

9y↑15

This Song Goes Out To All The Soldiers Fighting To keep us Safe!

@lululemon1981

3y↑9

This song is my moms favourite. She came to Canada from the Philippines and the age of 16 and this was a song that always made her dance. Music back then was amazing, beautiful and pure. Love the shirelles!

@TEXASdaughter

35w↑3

I married my soldier boy at 16, he was 18, by age 20 he was in Vietnam. I was an army wife. Yes, I stayed true to him.

@graff324

3y↑6

In my college fraternity it was a tradition to play this song at the last record hop. All the graduating seniors who were in ROTC would be dancing with their sweethearts, and you could hear the girls softly singing it to their solider boys. It was a different time then, a better time.

@cainmathewson1857

That must have been a sight go see. Was this around the time of the Vietnam war?

@graff324

23w

Yes it was@cainmathewson1857

@chrism.nsarille2842

6y↑6

My grandma had this on cassette tape,, im 29 and i always popped this in the radio after school! This is one of my favorite songs of all time!! LYGS!

@swatguy6237

9w↑1

1965…..I was in the Army.
As a medic I served in a Army hospital…..Intensive Care Ward.
We started getting serious wounded soldiers from Nam.
They were my age 18..19…heartbreaking…….will never forget them.
This song….always reminds me of those …..times.

@cesarhernandez8856

7y↑6

This is a beautiful song.. I wish i would of lived in these times where there was respect and morals. I once knew a couple that were engaged in the 1950s and they would tell me beautiful stories about that era. I'm so fascinated about it and this is where "Old school" was born...

@jmrodas9

8y↑12

Nice song I used to hear 55 years ago. I like both the voices of these ladies singing and the music so well played. It is one of those unforgettables of my teen years as I was 16 when it was released. Nice memories this song brings to me of my High School days.

@paulinerothstein8982

4y↑6

I was 8 when this came out!!!!!!! I am 67 now and it still sounds great!!!!!!

@dolphygilpin2365

7y↑3

After graduation with a bachelor's in engineering from CCNY of CUNY, I entered the Army and became a soldier. I can thus relate to this song.

@bonniekaledas6879

1y↑2

My husband went in the Army In1966, an I cried like a baby ,it’s when all these songs were playing, got married in 69,he passed away 2022, now when I here the old songs I think of him an it hurts!

@joeandgeorgialene

12y↑21

I love this song it brings back so many happy memories of my young years and my first love.

@beverleyjohnson5419

8y↑19

Remember falling in love with this while watching the movie The Wanderers, in the 70s. Memories.

@daarrve

12y↑5

This was the very first song I danced to, several years I became a "soldier boy". I was 17 when I enlisted, awesome time.

@paydendonaldson1340

5y↑9

Feel like this song never lost its meaning and in a way from the 60s to my generation today for the current military muck we are. Bless the boys who leave for us and come back men. And bless the women who help them heal. Our country loves you.

@jimmyd10100

10y↑91

its so sad for me to look back to those years in 1962. grew up in San Francisco 1953. my dad was a police officer. seen it all in life. went in the Marines july 1971 during end of vietnam. seen so many friends pass. truly miss old school days and memories. God Bless.

@jimmyd10100

10y↑4

hello My Brother!! I was 1971--1974. 0311. you and i lived the times. you are my friend. Semper Fi. good to hear from you, wish you the best in life,

@ecnstnn

10y↑7

jimmyd10100 Thank you very much for your service and God Bless

@philtoste3626

8y↑3

papermate777 IT WAS MY SONG IN 1966 US ARMY.

@vaporiiz

7y↑3

Celebrate the fact you got to enjoy those times.. I wish I could have been born a little earlier 🙃

@myrawalker118

6y↑1

I was in love with Marine SGT James Carl Bowler, wish I knew where he is today, hopefully still alive. My soldier boy.

@laneitawilliams9062

6y↑5

I was in 6th grade when this song came out. I remember it was number one on the charts for a few weeks. I love this song. I’m now 68 and still love it.

@robertward1956

3y↑8

I was 12 years old when this song was released and it remains one of my favorites to this day. No one can outdo the Shirtless. They're amazing.

@Xacc_

Hey grandpa just wanted to tell you can edit your comment to fix the spelling error in which I believe was caused by autocorrect. Shirtless to Sherelles

@blockcl

13w↑1

A sweet, simple song, beautifully arranged and performed.

@frankdulaney151

6y↑7

Danced with my wife to this song I was her soldier boy, i was 20 and she was 18. we married in 64 she has been gone over 3 yrs now ..miss her and all my army buddies.. long time gone but not forgotten.

@williamestabrook3624

3y↑2

My mother told me when I was a young child that her mother wrote this song and sold the lyrics. I haven't thought of it for years until just now I came here to find it. I'll be 33 in January.

@rocky3268

Stranger things have happened ya Never know 🤷🏼‍♂️Maybe she Was just doing What Mother's do Cos they Always do it Best 💯👌🏻👍🏻✌🏻

@joemarispinijr.6472

7y↑4

Thank you, Angel for your Awesome heart. In 1967-68 I buried many Army brothers from the Vietnam war in Northern Georgia and Eastern Tennessee when I was stationed at Ft, McPherson. It still affects me to this day.

@talkinwithjess

2y↑2

As a 12-year Marine veteran who served in Afghanistan twice I used to always enjoy listening to the stories of past service members who served in Desert Storm or Vietnam of those that are still alive for the Korean War and a very few who was around for World War II. And it's strange and now that I'm retired out I see and talk to current service members who thanked me for my service and ask me what was it like to be in the Afghanistan war

@priscillaturner6012

3y↑4

This song was in my head all day yesterday. I found it love it !!!

@Taoseno2007

8y↑2

Means a lot to me who went to "Vietnam" in 1969 in the USAF....Actually it was THAILAND....a real adventure....but we were scared and this song became our moral booster! "THANKS FOR YOUR SERVICE!"

@vparonto

3y↑11

The first time I heard them sing, it was an awakening for a 14 year old girl from Montana to hear other types of music rather then the bland music that was pushed on us locally.. I picked this up from an all-night Station in Chicago, and for some reason just couldn't get enough of the music being played.

@MT-zu9zk

5y↑2

My mom played this song for me and my two brothers every Saturday and Sunday early in the morning while ahe was cleaning. My mom passed about this past Febuary. One of the hardest days of my life.. we played this song at her memeoral mass.. soilder boy will forever means the world yo me! I love and miss you mom so much. RiP!! never understood the lyrics until now...." take my love with you and every where you go I'll follow"

@classicalguitarlover

4y↑15

I fell in love with this song when my father gave me a live bootleg of this. It just blew me away. I was a teenager into healy metal thrash etc. This song opened my eyes up to a whole new world on music.

@jackmurphy4474

5y↑1

This was my grandma's song to my grandpa who was in the army for 22 years they where married 53 years rip my angels :(

@rosacaldwell3284

12y↑15

Always going to love this one. Saluting all the present and past soldiers that are keeping America strong.

@barryrobinson8687

3y↑2

When I was ten years I was sleeping in my room and the clock radio came on late with this song playing so sweetly, next thing I remember my chest tightened, my throat got filled with lumpy gravy and hot tears started streaming down my cheek and I wondered who were these ladies who could put me in such a state so quickly

@SWBarbour

5y↑21

This was a favorite of many G.I.s when I was in Basic Training - so far from home and with a lot of apprehension of what was in store for me (us) after Basic, and it seems it played constantly on the PX juke box on the very rare occasions I (we) were allowed to go to the PX. It has remained a favorite for me among the store of memories of serving in the Vietnam era army. I could easily identify with the title of the song. After all, many of us were not men, just soldier ‘boys,’ on the long, hard journey of becoming men.