By quantriweb2023 Few songs embody the spirit of unwavering devotion as vividly as Peggy March’s “I Will Follow Him”. Released in 1963, this classic track became an anthem of young love and passionate loyalty, captivating listeners worldwide and transcending generations. Yet, the story behind this iconic song is far more thrilling—it’s a tale of musical transformation, cross-cultural appeal, and a powerful performance by a mere 15-year-old girl who rocketed to international stardom.
Originally, “I Will Follow Him” started as an instrumental piece titled “Chariot”, composed by French maestro Franck Pourcel with contributions from Paul Mauriat and Raymond Lefèvre. The tune quickly became a favorite orchestral melody across Europe, notably popularized by Petula Clark with French lyrics by Jacques Plante. But this was only the beginning.
Crossing the Atlantic, the melody was reborn with new English lyrics by legendary songwriters Norman Gimbel and Arthur Altman, crafting an intense expression of devotion and love. The hunt was then on for the perfect voice to immortalize these passionate words.
Enter Peggy March, born Margaret Annemarie Battavio, a petite 15-year-old from Lansdale, Pennsylvania. Known as “Little Peggy March,” her voice belied her age and size with raw emotional power. Discovered by RCA Victor at a local event, she delivered a vocal performance charged with both innocence and strength—a compelling match for a song pledging to follow love “wherever he may go.” Her rendition transformed the simple line into an anthem for countless young hearts experiencing love’s fervor for the first time.
Released in early 1963, “I Will Follow Him” didn’t just climb the charts—it exploded. By April, the song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, crowning Peggy March as the youngest female artist to achieve this feat, a record that stands firm today. Its enchanting fusion of pop, orchestral arrangements, and rhythm and blues created a unique sound that captivated diverse audiences.
Even decades later, the song’s cultural impact endures. In 1992, “I Will Follow Him” reemerged in the comedy film Sister Act, starring Whoopi Goldberg. This version breathed new life into the classic with a gospel twist, turning it into a spirited and humorous declaration of faith. The hit movie’s rendition introduced the song to a new generation, highlighting its timeless versatility and profound emotional resonance.
The song’s legacy is sealed by its simplicity and universality—the fervent message of devotion, loyalty, and love transcends all ages and cultures. For many, it’s a soundtrack to the innocence and excitement of first love, a cherished reminder of an era when pop music began capturing the depths of human emotion.
Peggy March, though successful in later years, is forever linked to this powerful anthem. Her youthful passion continues to inspire audiences worldwide, a testament to the sheer emotional depth and lasting appeal of “I Will Follow Him.” As Peggy herself said, its message of following love “wherever he may go” remains a beacon of hope and pure heartfelt devotion in the fast-changing world of music.
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Lyrics: I Will Follow Him
[Intro]
I love him, I love him, I love him
And where He goes I’ll follow, I’ll follow, I’ll follow[Verse 1]
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[Verse 2]
I must 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[Chorus]
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[Verse 1]
I will 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[Chorus]
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[Verse 1]
I will 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[Outro]
And where he goes I’ll follow, I’ll follow, I’ll follow
I know I’ll always love him