“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
The heartfelt song “Josephine” by Joey+Rory is a timeless treasure that strikes a chord deep within the soul. It’s a beautifully woven narrative that takes us on a journey back to the Civil War era, capturing the raw emotions of love, separation, and the longing for home. Inspired by old letters exchanged between a soldier and his beloved, the song breathes life into a story of devotion that transcends time, making it one of those rare tracks that feels both nostalgic and deeply personal.
What makes “Josephine” so captivating is its simplicity and authenticity. Joey+Rory bring their signature style to the forefront, blending Joey’s angelic voice with Rory’s down-to-earth storytelling. The song is framed as a letter from a soldier to his dear wife, Josephine, expressing his yearning to be reunited with her. The lyrics are intimate, filled with heartfelt words that make you feel as though you’ve stumbled upon a private piece of history. It’s a song that invites you to reflect on the timeless nature of love—how it remains unwavering even in the face of distance and uncertainty.
One of the most touching aspects of “Josephine” is the way Joey’s soulful voice gently conveys the depth of emotion hidden within the soldier’s words. Her delivery is warm, yet tinged with a hint of sorrow, perfectly capturing the essence of a love that endures hardship. This song is more than just music; it’s a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who came before us, and it serves as a tribute to the enduring power of love.
Joey+Rory have always been known for their ability to tell a story through music, and “Josephine” is a shining example of their artistry. The simplicity of the acoustic guitar, paired with the gentle harmonies, allows the lyrics to shine through, pulling you into the narrative and making you feel as if you’re reading the soldier’s letter yourself. It’s a song that wraps itself around your heart, reminding you of the beauty found in the simplest expressions of love.
Listening to “Josephine” feels like taking a step back in time, yet its message is timeless. It’s a song for anyone who’s ever missed someone deeply, cherished a love from afar, or found solace in the written word. Joey+Rory remind us that even in the hardest times, love is a light that guides us through the darkness, and “Josephine” is a heartfelt testament to that truth.
Video
Lyrics
I’m writing this letter, my darling, from high on the hill
We’ve been marching ten days and we’re just outside Hopkinsville
It’s been snowing all night and we ain’t got no more kerosene
It’s colder than hell, hope you’re doin’ well, Josephine
There’s a fever in camp and our boys are too sick to fight
We done lost old Calvin, Beaver won’t make it through the night
I hope I heard the captain say it’s the worst he’s ever seen
I’m losin’ some weight but I’m still standin’ up straight, Josephine
Tell my children I miss ’em and wish I could kiss ’em once more
Bet they’ve grown a foot since they waved me goodbye at the door
Tell mama and daddy I’m alright and just want one more thing
I love you, I love you, I love you, Josephine
There’s three thousand union troops camped at the river below
There’s six hundreds of us, least there was two nights ago
When Erwin deserted they hung him down by the tree
God I’m so scared, keep me in your prayers, Josephine
Well the orders come down, we’ll attack tonight at nightfall
If we can stop them right here we can win this war once and for all
You know, I killed a union boy last week, bet he wasn’t fourteen
He looked just like our son, forgive me for what I’ve done, Josephine
Tell my children I miss ’em and wish I could kiss ’em once more
Bet they’ve grown a foot since they waved me goodbye at the door
Tell mama and daddy I’m alright and just want one more thing
I love you, I love you, I love you, Josephine
And lastly my darling, in case I should be killed
Don’t breathe me too long, promise me that you will
Marry another, don’t let him treat our babies mean
When he’s holding you, would you think of me too, Josephine?
Tell my babies I miss ’em and wish I could kiss ’em once more
Bet they’ve grown a foot since they waved me goodbye at the door
Tell mama and daddy I’m alright and just want one more thing
I love you, I love you, I love you, Josephine
I love you, I love you, I love you, Josephine