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Introduction
Listening to Joey + Rory’s Josephine is like peeking into a heartfelt letter from a bygone era. This poignant ballad paints the story of a soldier writing to his beloved Josephine during the Civil War, weaving together love, longing, and the heartache of separation. With its tender lyrics and raw emotional depth, this song feels less like a performance and more like a glimpse into a deeply personal moment frozen in time.
From the first note, Josephine draws you into its world. The melody is understated yet powerful, perfectly complementing Rory’s intimate vocal delivery. It’s a song steeped in history and storytelling, a hallmark of Joey + Rory’s music. Their ability to connect with the listener through vivid imagery and heartfelt emotion shines through, making this track feel like a treasure trove of emotions wrapped in a simple yet elegant package.
What makes Josephine truly special is its authenticity. Inspired by old letters and a deep respect for history, the song carries an emotional weight that resonates deeply. It speaks not only to the sacrifices made in times of war but also to the enduring power of love that bridges even the greatest distances.
The simplicity of the instrumentation allows the story to take center stage, letting the listener absorb every word and feel every emotion. It’s a hauntingly beautiful reminder of the fragility of life and the strength of the human spirit.
Whether you’re a fan of Joey + Rory’s heartfelt country style or simply appreciate songs that tell a story, Josephine is a must-listen. It’s a reminder of the timeless nature of love and the stories that bind us, no matter how much time passes.
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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