The band has released a string of albums, including The Subdudes (self-titled) (1989), Annunciation (1994), Lucky(1991), Primitive Streak (1996), Live at Last (1997), Miracle Mule (2004), Behind the Levee (2006) (produced by Keb' Mo'), Street Symphony (2007), Live at the Ram's Head (2008), Unplugged at Pleasant Plains, and Flower Petals (2009).
In between times, they spilt in 1996, only to regroup in 2002 - first as The Dudes but then re-adopting the name 'subdudes' in March 2003.
As of 2010, the lineup included:
John Magnie (accordian, organ, piano, and vocals).
Tommy Malone (guitars, lead vocals)
Steve Amedee (tambourine, percussion, vocals)
Jimmy Messa (bass, rhythm guitar)
Tim Cook (bass, percussion, bass vocals)
Lonely Soldier
the subdudes Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I'll wait before I return.
These hard times that are yet to come,
Mama said it is my concern.
I feel for the lonely soldier that fights but never wins.
I feel for the lonely soldier that fights but never wins.
takes my breath, it's hard to believe.
In times like this so many heads are turned
Mama said it is my concern.
I feel for the lonely soldier that fights but never wins.
I feel for the lonely soldier that fights but never wins.
Night falls out here, gunshot -- ring out loud.
In a flash of light a young man he's cut down.
I ask myself tonight
why they continue to fight
and no one ever wins.
I feel for the lonely soldier that fights but never wins.
(When will it end?)
I feel for the lonely soldier that fights but never wins.
(When will it end?)
I feel for the lonely soldier that fights but never wins.
(Why must the children have to pay?)
I feel for the lonely soldier that fights but never wins.
(For their fathers' sins?)
I feel for the lonely soldier that fights . . .
(When will it end?)
The lyrics to The Subdudes' song "Lonely Soldier" are rich with emotional depth and social commentary. The opening lines of the song, "Maybe I got some things to learn, I'll wait before I return" suggest the singer is wrestling with uncertainty about his place in the world, and a desire to take his time before jumping into action. The following lines "These hard times that are yet to come, Mama said it is my concern" reveal the influence of a parental figure who both advises and encourages the singer to take responsibility for his actions.
The line "I feel for the lonely soldier that fights but never wins" reveals the theme of loneliness and isolation in times of conflict, suggesting that even in the midst of war, no one truly emerges victorious. This sentiment is amplified with the lines "Night falls out here, gunshot -- ring out loud. In a flash of light a young man he's cut down," which depict the harsh realities of war and its devastating effects on individuals and families.
The refrain "When will it end?" is a call for peace and an end to war, lamenting the ongoing cycle of violence and the continued sacrifices of those who fight. Overall, the song speaks to the universal experience of grappling with pain, uncertainty, and loss, and underscores the importance of empathy and understanding in the face of conflict.
Line by Line Meaning
Maybe I got some things to learn.
Acknowledging the need for personal growth and development.
I'll wait before I return.
Delaying a return until after gaining more knowledge and experience.
These hard times that are yet to come, Mama said it is my concern.
Taking responsibility for preparing for upcoming difficulties with guidance from a mother figure.
I feel for the lonely soldier that fights but never wins.
Expressing empathy for those who suffer and struggle against insurmountable odds.
There's a part of me that wants to find out, takes my breath, it's hard to believe.
Curiosity and amazement at the unknown, despite the fear and awe it inspires.
In times like this so many heads are turned, Mama said it is my concern.
Feeling the pressure to conform to societal norms, while still seeking guidance from a maternal figure.
Night falls out here, gunshot -- ring out loud. In a flash of light a young man he's cut down.
An intense and vivid description of the violence and danger that surrounds us.
I ask myself tonight why they continue to fight and no one ever wins.
Questioning the futility of endless conflict and the toll it takes on all involved.
When will it end?
A plea for peace and resolution to the endless cycle of violence and suffering.
Why must the children have to pay? For their fathers' sins?
Rhetorical questions about the unjust burden placed on innocent people who suffer because of the actions of others.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: JOHN C. MAGNIE, JOHNNY RAY ALLEN, STEVEN C. AMEDEE, TOMMY MALONE
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind