Collections › US Combat Perspective Songs [War Years]

US Combat Perspective Songs [War Years]

281 songs · chronological within each section · A–Z by artist
Annotations and notes by Justin A. Brummer
Entries are numbered (#1, #2 …) for reference on this page; the numbers shift when entries are added or split.
A collection of Vietnam War songs looking at the US combat perspective
This forms part of the larger Vietnam War Song Project, an interpretive examination of over 6,500 Vietnam War songs identified, revealing how the war's significance is represented through music. The project also collects spoken-word recordings about the conflict. The goals of the project are: (1) to critically analyse the song lyrics, searching for historical, social, and cultural themes, and collecting data on the genre, location, ethnicity, nationality, language, and time period of the recordings; (2) to learn about the Vietnam War, and the music and artists associated with it; (3) to preserve the physical records for the future, as artifacts of the 20th century. This unique collection of voices advances scholarship by providing insights into people’s views about the war over time as represented in music, looking at diverse communities and vibrant music scenes. It is crucial in developing our knowledge of the war and the humanities, through the use of a digital research platform.
Note: The VWSP has identified, to date, 280+ songs from the US combat perspective, released during the war years (1960–75).
Citation: Justin A. Brummer, Vietnam War Song Project (VWSP) — US Combat Perspective Songs [War Years], vietnamwarsongproject.com/list/us-combat-perspective-songs, accessed 12 November 2026

Introduction

Beyond Soldier's Perspective and Combat, the songs in this collection most often also deal with: Religion, K.I.A., Patriotic, Military.
1 of 2
"The Vietnam Conflict Spawning Heavy Barrage of Disk Tunes" the headline read in Billboard on 4 June 1966. It went on to report that: "since January, well over 100 Vietnam records have been released, with five making the Billboard Hot 100 and a dozen making Billboard's country charts..With Vietnam still the over-riding issue, and with little likelihood for an early settlement, the prospect for more war songs is certain".1

Time Period & Criteria

1 of 2
US Army helicopters fire on a tree line as South Vietnamese troops advance near Tay Ninh, March 1965. Photo: Horst Faas, AP.
  • Pre-Gulf of Tonkin: 1960-1964
    While many of these early songs may have been intending to refer to US troops in Germany, or Korea, or representing general Cold War fears, they were released in the run-up to the "Vietnam era" and the Gulf of Tonkin incident (1964), which led to a major escalation of US involvement in the conflict, and thus included in this list, as cultural perspectives. The criteria is the same as for the war years - the songs included mention Vietnam, or the lyrics deal with war-related themes, such as the draft, napalm, prisoners of war, demonstrations, references to soldiers and veterans, war & peace, and expressions of patriotism.

  • War Years: 1964-1975
    Released during the key war years, the songs included mention Vietnam, or the lyrics deal with war-related themes, such as the draft, napalm, prisoners of war, demonstrations, references to soldiers and veterans, war & peace, and expressions of patriotism. While the war goes back to the 1954 Geneva conference, following the Gulf of Tonkin incident (1964), the US significantly expanded its presence in the region and its defence of South Vietnam, and thus using this date as the beginning of the core war years. These run to the collapse of South Vietnam (30 April 1975), in two periods: (a) 1964-1972, the years of major US combat involvement, up to the peace agreement; (b) 1973-1975, from the Paris Peace Accords (27 January 1973), which brought US troops and prisoners of war home, to the collapse of South Vietnam. This collection covers the war years only (1960-1975).

1960-1964

Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara, in post-midnight press conference at the Pentagon, describing Gulf of Tonkin incident, 04 August 1964.
Key EventsIn July 1954 the Geneva Accords established a temporary boundary between the North and South of Vietnam, and provided for the gradual withdrawal of French troops. A few months later, in October 1955, South Vietnam declared itself a republic. The Eisenhower administration committed the US to preserving this independent, non-communist South Vietnam, which continued in the early 1960s under Kennedy and Johnson.

In the 1964 presidential election 2/3rds of Americans said that they paid little or no attention to Vietnam.1 However, the Vietnam conflict had started to rise in the news agenda. The US had over 15,000 personnel in South Vietnam - mainly military experts, for training and support. Furthermore, on 7 August 1964, the US Congress passed the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, following a naval clash between North Vietnam and US forces, which permitted President Lyndon B. Johnson (1963-1969) to send conventional forces to Vietnam.2 Thus, Vietnam started to become a focal point in the news and with topical singers.
  • 8 November 1960: John F. Kennedy defeats Richard Nixon in US presidential election
  • 20 December 1960: National Liberation Front (NFL) or the Viet Cong is established
  • 2 November 1962: South Vietnamese leader Diem executed in coup
  • 22 November 1963: Lyndon Baines Johnson becomes US president following Kennedy assassination
  • 2-4 August 1964: North Vietnam attacks US ships in Gulf of Tonkin
  • 7 August 1964: Gulf of Tonkin Resolution passed by US Congress, permitting intervention
  • 3 November 1964: Johnson re-elected US president

1961

#1 Wilbert Harrison Drafted 1961 · Single · Drafted / My Heart Is Yours · Fury [New York] # 1055 · USA
Annotation
Wilbert Harrison, blues and R&B artist, born on 5 January 1929 in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA, he died on 26 October 1994 in Spencer, North Carolina, USA. Released in 1961, the song "Drafted" (Fury Records # 1055) was just before the main period of the Vietnam War - no specific war is mentioned, however it is a good piece of contemporary blues representing the possibility of being drafted at the time. Reluctantly, the narrator informs his partner that "I got to meet that recruitin' sergeant" . He wonders whether it will be "the army or the marines...the navy or the air force" - either way, he requested: "dear, don't forget our lover's vow" .
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Fury Records 1055, matrix F 2009, 45 R.P.M., "Preview Copy"; "Drafted" (W. Harrison), 2:25, Fast Music - Wilberton Music; "Sehorn & Robinson Production". [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Hut-two-three-four
Hut-two-three-four
Hut-two-three-four
Goodbye, my darlin', I have been drafted
Hey, a face says I've got to go
Goodbye my darlin', I have been drafted
Hey, a face says I've got to go
My dear it hurts me so
How much you'll never know
And I really hate to go
Hut-two-three-four
Hut-two-three-four
Hut-two-three-four
Goin' by train or by plane
I got to meet that recruitin' sergeant
Goin' by train or by plane
I got to meet that recruitin' sergeant
On land or on sea
No matter where I may be
My darlin', please, please, wait for me
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Ah, but you know, yeah
Mercy!
Hеy, ho
Hey, ho
Yeah, yeah, yеah
Hut-two-three-four
Hut-two-three-four
Hut-two-three-four
Might in be in the army or the marines
I'm drafted, and that's no dream
Might be in the navy or the air force
Whichever one I've got no choice
I'm in the service now
I guess I'll make it somehow
Dear, don't forget our lover's vow
I'm in the service now
I guess I'll make it somehow
Dear, don't forget our lover's vow
I'm in the service now
I guess I'll make it somehow
Show full lyrics (42 lines) ▾
#2 Ken Pepper The Dying Soldier 1961 · Single · The Dying Soldier / Little Fish · Roulette # R-4375 · USA
Notes
Dying Soldier, The (Pepper, Ken)

Korean War??
Soldier's perspective, K.I.A.
From New Mexico. Pop
Notes
Roulette R-4375 (15875), 45 RPM, "Radio Station Copy", white label with coloured spokes; "The Dying Soldier" (A. Wood), 3:05, Vernon Music (ASCAP); © Roulette Records, Inc. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Genre: ♪ Pop

1962

#3 Marvin Gaye Soldier's Plea 1962 · Single · Soldier's Plea / Taking My Time · Tamla # 54063 · USA
Annotation
Marvin Gaye, born in Washington D.C. (2 April 1939), helped shape the sound of the Detroit-based Motown Records in the 1960s, and thus he became one of the most influential soul singers of the era. In the early 1970s with the album What's Going On, which contained several Vietnam War and Civil Rights references, he worked on his own production, breaking away from the Motown team. It introduced the concept album to R&B, while it contained innovative music, using gospel, jazz, soul, and classical orchestration, as the songs flowed seamlessly together. Also note that in 1972 Gaye recorded the song "I Want to Come Home for Christmas" about a Vietnam P.O.W., which took an anti-war perspective.

Released on 8 May 1962, the song "Soldier's Plea" (Tamla Records # 54063) featured as the first single taken from Gaye's second album That Stubborn Kinda' Fellow. Coming so soon after the major chart success of The Shirelles' "Soldier Boy", this has largely been considered either an answer record - from the perspective of the soldier, rather than the sweetheart back home - or an attempt to cash in and reach the charts on the back of The Shirelles' hit. If so, it failed, as this single did not chart. Some also viewed this record as an answer to The Supremes' "Your Heart Belongs to Me", released on the same day, and same record label. This song does not mention Vietnam, and maybe it is too early to be specifically about that conflict, although undoubtedly attention on Vietnam grew during this period. This is another example of an early Motown Records political release. The lyrics started with a patriotic message, with the soldier saying that "I'm over here fighting to keep us free" and "we all must do our share" - very different from Gaye's 1971 album What's Going On about the hell of war and mistreatment of veterans, and thus an excellent representation of how views on the war changed over a period of ten years, from 1962 to 1971. The song then continued with the story of a soldier missing his girlfriend.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Tamla 54063, yellow globe label, "Tamla Records, Detroit, Michigan", matrix ZTSC 82821 / DM-V 004101, stamped "D.J. Copy"; "Soldier's Plea" (Stevenson, Gordy & Williams), 2:25, Jobete-BMI; produced by Stevenson & Williams; vocal accompaniment by the Love-Tones. [From the record sleeve and labels] Label (the collection's copy, stamped "D.J. Copy"): Tamla 54063 (ZTSC 82821), Jobete – BMI, DM-V 004101; label time 2:25; produced by Stevenson & Williams; vocal accompaniment by the Love-Tones. [From the record label]
Lyrics
English
While I'm away darling I hope you'll think of me
Remember I'm over here fighting to keep us free
Just be my little girl and always be true
And I'll be a faithful soldier boy to you
They say I'm now a man and by god it's hard
But I don't think I'll make it dear, if you don't play your part...
We all must do our share...
The only thing that is grieving me is leaving you
#4 Memphis Willie B. Uncle Sam Blues 1962 · Album · Hard Working Man Blues · Prestige Bluesville # BVLP 1048 · USA
Annotation
Acoustic Blues artist, born on 4 November 1911 in Shelby County, Tennessee, USA, he died on 5 October 1993 in Memphis, Tennessee. He released the early Vietnam War-era draft song, "Uncle Sam Blues" (Bluesville Records #1048), in which the narrator explained to his daughter that "Uncle Sam's havin' trouble overseas" . He continues that "the doctor done okayed me...I got to check with my local board" . Released in 1962, it was probably a little early to be specifically about Vietnam, but an interesting reflection of the contemporary prospect of being drafted to war and the impact on home life.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
You know, I've got bad news for you, little girl, I'm gonna tell you what it's all about
You know, I've got bad news for you, little girl, Lord, and I'm gonna tell you what it's all about
You know, Uncle Sam's havin' trouble overseas, and Lord, they want me to help him out
The doctor done okayed me, Lord, and I'm glad there was nothin' wrong
The doctor done okayed me, little girl, I'm glad there wasn't nothin' wrong
But only thing I hate, I got to leave you here alone
I'm gonna get up early in the mornin', Lord, I got to check with my local Board
I got to get up early in the mornin', I got to check with my local Board
Lord, I'm so sorry, but, little girl, I got to go
Hold out, baby, maybe I'll be back someday
Hold out, baby, maybe I'll be back someday
Lord, don't let nobody drive my little girl astray
I know you hear that train wistle blowin', callin' little Willie, I know
Hear that train whistle blowin', callin' little Willie, I know
Baby, you know how it is, you know, I'm booked out and I'm bound to go
So now, bye-bye, little girl, don't forget to write
So bye-bye, little girl, don't forget to write
Lord, I be thinkin' of you, each, both dayr and night
Show full lyrics (19 lines) ▾
Also in: ▤ Blues songs▤ Draft Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Blues songs
#5 Teddy Reynolds and The Twisters I Thought the War Was Over 1962 · The Twist
Annotation
Teddy Reynolds, Blues artists, especially known for playing the piano, born on 12 July 1931 in Houston, Texas, USA, and died on 1 October 1998 in Houston, Texas, USA. He grew up in Houston's 'Third Ward', played piano in bootleg houses and joined the house band at the Third Ward nightclub Shady's Playhouse, playing with Electric Texas Blues artists Johnny Copeland, Albert Collins and other Texas artists, such as Joe Medwick and Amos Milburn. He recorded in the 50s and 60s, especially as a session player at Houston's Peacock Records. He played with Grady Gaines & The Texas Upsetters on the 1990 album Gulf Coast Blues, Volume One.1

In 1962 he released the song "I Thought the War Was Over" (Crown Records # CLP 5245) - the narrator refers to the "last war" - which could be a reference to the Korean War or World War Two. In any case, "Mr. K said that don't mean a thing", a reference to President John F. Kennedy. In a resigned fashion, the narrator accepts "this world is all mixed up", and that he will be returning to the "old war plant".
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
I thought the war was over
Mr. K. said that don't mean a thing...
Well this world is all mixed up and you know I'm not to blame
Well I'm working hard baby, you gotta treat me like a king...
Well I'm back on my old war plant y'all
And I'm doing the same old thing
Well you can come back home baby if you promise to be good...
'Cause the last war, I gave you everything I could
Also in: ▤ • Vietnam War: Blues songs
#6 Pfc. Craig Brown Away - I'm Bound Away 1962 · Single · Away - I'm Bound Away / Bobby Shafto · Select # 45K714 · Canada
Notes
Away, I'm Bound away (Brown, Craig) Traditional pop, soldier's perspective I'm away at war - my love has left me Vietnam-era [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
#7 Herb Sims Old Weeping Willow 1962 · Single · Old Weeping Willow (Stop Crying for Me) / I'll Always Be in Love With You · Domar # 101 · USA
Notes
Country, soldier's perspective One of the troops, waiting to ship oversea Sweetheart crying Reference to bluejackets - Civil War? [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country

1963

#8 Son House Fighting for Dear Old Uncle Sam 1963 · Son House & J.D. Short - Blues From the Mississippi Delta
Annotation
LP, split between two artists rather than a collaboration, features the song "Fighting for Dear Old Uncle Sam" (Folkways Records # FA 2467) by Delta Blues artist J.D. Short, born on 26 February 1902 in Port Gibson, Mississippi, USA, and died on 21 October 1962 in St. Louis, Missouri, USA. He played guitar and the harmonica. He moved to St. Louis in the mid-20s, and recorded music in the 30s. Serving in World War Two, like many of his contemporaries, he disappeared for a couple decades, before re-emerging in the late 50s, early 60s blues revival. This song seems to be in reference to World War Two, "may go down in South Pacific, going down in a European land", but released in the early Vietnam War-era, thus included here. In contained vivid combat descriptions, "in some old foxhole... boys, we was afraid to raise our heads".
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
Tell me war is all over, yes, gonna be right here...
Well on account of so many women now, totting away the soldiers' monthly pay
I may go down in South Pacific, going down in a European land
Where some ever I go down swinging boys, I'm going down fighting for dear old Uncle Sam
So dark was the night now, people, cold, cold was the ground
Me and my buddies in some old foxhole, we had to keep our heads all down
Well, machine guns and cannon roaring
Boys, we was afraid to raise our heads
You know if bayonets cost a million dollars, boy, now you know we'd have all been dead
Yes, the first of the month now, salute the lieutenant and get our pay
There's a little piece of paper laying on the side, sign it, send your wife home allotment pay
Some day they'll be so glad when the boys all come back home again
You'll get so many soldiers on the plane
The soldiers ain't gonna be your friend
Honey the war is all over
Ain't nothing but a little shout
'Cause the war is all over, you just don't know what it's all about
Show full lyrics (18 lines) ▾
Also in: ▤ • Vietnam War: Blues songs
#9 Dee Clark I'm a Soldier Boy 1963 · Single · I'm A Soldier Boy / Shook Up Over You · Vee Jay # VJ-487 · USA
Annotation
"I'm a Soldier Boy" (Vee-Jay Records # VJ-487) - another early R&B / soul track that took the 'soldier boy' perspective. Dee Clark (aka Delectus Clark), born in Arkansas in 1938, moved to Chicago with his mother (a gospel singer) in 1941, where much of his musical career was based. The song, composed by Chicago Soul artists Otis Leavill, Curtis Mayfield, & Major Lance, does not mention Vietnam, but contained lyrics dealing with themes of the conflict, and of course released during its early stages. The soldier, remembering his loved one, re-assured her that "I'll be home soon my love" , and so he wanted her to "be true" . The song was included in Billboard's spotlight singles on 9 February 1963, which said: "Strong marching-cadence feel to this side, with strong guitar and rhythm effects in the background help Clark to put this one across in a fashion which could get it a lot of play".1 Covers song: Bobby John - "Lonely Soldier".
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Vee-Jay VJ #487 (62-2622), vocal, black label with rainbow rim; "I'm a Soldier Boy" (C. Mayfield–O. Cobbs–M. Lance), Conrad-Curtom, BMI, time 2:36. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I'm a soldier boy remembering his love
I promised her that I would always be true
Remembering her eyes as we marched out of sight
I saw sweet tears as she cried, and she cried so blue...
I wish I had my love tonight
I wrote her a letter just to tell her how I felt
Nothing in this world would ever change me...
I'm still your soldier boy whose heart still melts
And I'll soon be home my love, yes dear be true
Also in: ▤ Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
#10 Texas Ruby On the Banks of the Lonely River (Ten Thousand Miles Away) 1963 · Single · On the Banks of the Lonely River (Ten Thousand Miles Away) / Hold Fast to the Right · King # 45-5741 · USA
Notes
Country, soldier's perspective Dreaming of home, missing mum. Just got a letter from my sister, mother passed away [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country

1964

#11 Nathan McKinney Weep No More 1964 · Single · Oh How I Love You / Weep No More · Rayco # R-526 · USA
Credited on the record as Nathan McKinney and Valleyites.
Annotation
Nathan McKinney recorded the doo-wop track "Weep No More" , composed by the blues man Len Johnson. The song, released on the Los Angeles based label Rayco Records (R-526), founded by Floyd Ray, contained themes of the Vietnam War. It is narrated from the soldier's perspective, who tells us that "Uncle Sam is calling for me" , and that he is resigned to leaving those he loves: "So I guess I'll have to go" . Covers song: Six Pak - "Weep No More" .
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Ray-Co R-526 (RC-426), vocal, 45 RPM, black label with silver saxophone and guitar logo; "Weep No More" (Len Johnson), 2:48, Bira Music, BMI; produced by Floyd Ray. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Weep no more, my baby for me
Weep no more, I say
Daddy is gonna be back home to you some bright and sunny day
You know that Uncle Sam is calling for me
So I guess I'll have to go
But remember that I'm gonna miss you much more then you will ever know...
Just give me one more kiss before I go
Then turn around and walk away
For I want to remember you just like you are
For in my heart you will always say
Also in: ▤ Draft Songs▤ Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
#12 Nathan McKinney Soldier Boy 1964 · Single · Soldier Boy / Never Fall in Love · Rayco # R-527 · USA
Credited on the record as Nathan McKinney and The Chamber Bros..
Annotation
McKinney shortly followed up the above song with the track "Soldier Boy" (Rayco Records # R-527) - a standard soldier relationship song. The narrator reassured the soldier that his sweetheart back home will be "by your side" on his return, and that their love was "written eternally" . It made no specific mention of Vietnam or other conflicts.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Ray-Co R-527-B (R-427), 45 RPM, black label with silver print; "Soldier Boy" (Jones-Williams), Bryden Music (BMI), time 2:40; credited to Nathan McKinney and The Chamber Bros.; prod. by Floyd Ray. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Tell me why do you cry
When you return she'll rest by your side...
So true, her love is true...
Try to believe her love for you
It's written eternally...
She were meant for only you...
We're gonna do all things we used to do
Also in: ▤ Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
#13 Sonny Marshall A Soldier's Prayer 1964 · EP · A Soldier's Prayer / Talk, Talk, Talk · Air # 5064 · USA
Notes
- "A Soldier's Prayer" (Marshall, Sonny)

- Label: Air Records #5064
- Songwriter: Delbert R. Tyree

- Song poem, traditional pop
- Miami, Florida
- Soldier's perspective, religion

- Air Records 5064-1, 2, "45 R.P.M. E.P.", maroon label, Active (ASCAP), 3170 S.W. 8th St., Miami 35, Fla.; this side carries two songs: "A Soldier's Prayer" (Delbert R. Tyree), Sonny Marshall, 2:48, and "Dizzy Love" (M. Blickensderfer), Joan Auborn, 2:09. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Also in: ▤ Song Poems

1965

New York Times front page, 03 March 1965, '160 U.S. and Saigon planes bomb 2 bases in North in record raid; continuing strikes expected', the beginning of Operation Rolling Thunder bombing campaign1
Key Events
  • 2 March: US Rolling Thunder bombing campaign of North Vietnam kicks-off
  • 8 March: Escalation of US combat troops in Vietnam
  • 17 April: 20,000 attend anti-war demonstration in Washington D.C.
  • 28 April: Australian PM Menzies send battalion to South Vietnam
  • 4 May: LBJ requests additional $700m for the war
  • 5 May: Berkeley students burn draft cards at city's draft board
  • 27 May: New Zealand PM Holyoake announces sending first troops to S. Vietnam
  • 28 July: LBJ commits additional 50,000 troop to Vietnam
  • 31 August: LBJ criminalizes destruction of draft card
  • 27 November: March on Washington for Peace in Vietnam demonstration
  • 28 November: Philippines announces sending troops to S. Vietnam
  • 24 December: LBJ halts bombing campaign
  • 31 December: US personnel in S. Vietnam total 184k+, up from 23k+ from a year earlier.

1965

#14 The Elegants & Vito Picone A Letter From Viet Nam (Dear Donna) 1965 · Single · A Letter From Viet Nam (Dear Donna) / Barbara Beware · Laurie # 3283 · USA
Annotation
The Elegants formed in New York City in 1956, a doo-wop group that influenced many groups of the late 1950s and 60s, and famous for their 1958 hit "Little Star". Sometimes their releases appeared under the name "Vito and The Elegants" after 1965. Featuring gunfire and bomb sound-effects in the background, the theme of the song "Letter From Vietnam" (Laurie Records # 3283) focused on a soldier writing to his ex-girlfriend, recalling the good times, and wishing that she would wait for him while in the service, as expressed in the chorus: "I wish I was home with you having fun like we used to do, how happy I'd be if you were waiting for me" . The verses outlined in greater detail what the soldier missed from back home (such as a cold soda and going to the cinema), and the difficulties of fighting in Vietnam, which really required a man to be "tough".
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Laurie Record No. L 3283, "Advance Release" promotional label (red-and-white), Laurie Records Inc., New York; matrix S4KM 0231; "A Letter From Viet Nam (Dear Donna)" (R. Adams-L. Kusik), time 2:40, Just Mus. Corp.-Kusada Mus. BMI; The Elegants & Vito Picone; "Recorded at Allegro Sound Studios." [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Dear Donna, I bet you are surprised to hear from me
I know we broke up before I went away, but it wasn't until I got overseas that I realised how much I loved you
And what a fool I was to let a wonderful girl like you slip away from me...
You know Donna, back in the states a guy gets to take a lot of things for granted
He can get a piece of meat or a nice cold soda on every corner
Over here the things I remember most are holding your hand at the movies, kissing you goodnight, or just sitting on a park bench and dreaming
We thought we were tough with our black leather jackets and motorcycle boots
But now I know what being tough really means /Because I see people fighting and dying everyday
Genre: ♪ Teen Pop
#15 The Animals We've Gotta Get Out of This Place 1965 · Single · We've Gotta Get Out of This Place / I Can't Believe It · Columbia # EMI DB 7639 · UK
Annotation
The Animals, led by Eric Burdon, formed in 1962 in Newcastle upon Tyne, Northumberland, UK. The song "We've Gotta Get Out of This Place" (Columbia (EMI) # DB 7639) was very popular amongst US forces in Vietnam - as the veteran streetmouse said, it was one of those songs that "expressed emotions, desires, daily activities", as well as being "just a whole lot of fun to listen to".1 The song frequently played on the American Forces Network radio in Vietnam.2Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil actually wrote the song with the industrial, working class North of England in mind. Note this group also released the war-related song Sky Pilot (Part One) / Sky Pilot (Part Two) (1968).
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
In this dirty old part of the city where the sun refused to shine
People tell me, there ain't no use in tryin'...
We gotta get out of this place!
If it's the last thing we ever do...
We gotta get out of this place
#16 Jimmy Hydrick Goodbye Viet Nam 1965 · Single · Goodbye Viet Nam / Just Let Me Know · Gold Standard # GS-283 · USA
Annotation
Country song "Goodbye Viet Nam" (Gold Standard Records # GS-283) by Jimmy Hydrick is about the plight of a soldier - returning home from Vietnam where he has "had all I can take" , to California, where "we'll gonna be so happy...I gonna really spread my wings" , and therefore a song reflecting on a soldier finishing his stint in Vietnam and looking forward to embracing life back home.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Gold Standard Records, Record No. GS-283-A, gold label with "Au Gold" ingot logo, "Music Row", Nashville, Tenn.; "Goodbye Viet Nam" (Hydrick), 2:25, Junellin Music Co., BMI. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Well goodbye Vietnam, California here I come
I guess I'm just a lucky son of a gun
I got my order yesterday, I will soon be on my way
I Just can't wait until I get back to you
When I get home I know we'll gonna be so happy
I just can't wait to kiss your lips again
When I get home, I'm gonna call you honey
And take you to some place I know you've never been
When I step of that plane and I gonna really spread my wings
Me and this girl of mine are gonna paint this town...
So goodbye Vietnam, California, here I come...
I've had all I can take, I need you love for goodness sake
Genre: ♪ Country
#17 Dean Gross Hello Frisco, Goodbye Viet Nam 1965 · Single · Hello Frisco, Goodbye Viet Nam / The Stronger of the Two · Western Lounge # W-1298 · USA
Annotation
The song "Hello Frisco, Goodbye Viet Nam" (Western Lounge Inc. Record Co. # W-1298) by Dean Gross started with a radio transmit from a soldier in Vietnam requesting a trip home: "calling San Francisco, do you have news on my request...San Francisco calling, we are sorry....good hunting" . Then the main song kicks-off. The narrator hates Vietnam – he tells us that he is "a lover not a fighter" and that he would rather "Be in Frisco, getting stoned" . Nevertheless, he will continue to "do the best I can...I’ll fight on like a man" . This is an interesting reflection of those who wanted peace and disagreed with war in general, but insisted on doing their duty, either to be "a man" or out of loyalty to the county.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Western Lounge, Inc. Record Co., "Millionaire Memphis Sound", Record No. W-1298 (SO 2731); "Hello Frisco, Goodbye Viet Nam" (Gene Rowe), 2:47, Chickasaw Music Inc. — BMI and Millionaire Music, Inc. BMI. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Here I am across the sea 5000 miles
Among the snakes and mosquitoes and the Vietcong
I don’t like it here but I’ll do the best I can
Until I say hello to Frisco, goodbye Vietnam
When we got to old Saigon I thought we’d have a ball
Then I heard the captain shout: 'move out you all'...
I don’t like this place and I never will...
I’m a lover not a fighter...
I’d rather be in Frisco, getting stoned
Well it’s rained each day I’ve been here
Here it comes again...
I don’t like it here but I’ll fight on like a man
Genre: ♪ Country
#18 Webb Pierce Christmas at Home 1965 · Single · Christmas at Home / Sweet Memories · Decca # 31867 · USA
Annotation
Popular honky tonk / country singer Webb Pierce, born 8 August 1926 in West Monroe, Louisiana, served in the US army during World War Two.1 He moved to Nashville in the 1950s, and released the track "Christmas at Home" (Decca # 31867) in November 1965, narrated from the perspective of a soldier heading out to war2 In San Francisco, the Christmas season had begun and "people are happy, there is holiday cheer" . However, the narrator said that "I'm shipping out tomorrow" , so for his Christmas present he wanted "last December" . The narrator also chose to focus on the discrepancy between the voting age and draft age: "they say I'm not old enough to vote, that I'm old enough to fight" .
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Decca record no. 31867 (116,568), pink promotional label, "Promotion copy – not for sale", Mfg'd by Decca Records, Inc., New York; "Christmas at Home" (Max Powell – Wayne Walker), 2:35; Cedarwood Publ. Co., Inc. (BMI); vocal with chorus and instrumental accompaniment. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Oh how I would loved to have spent it, Christmas at home
Here I am in San Francisco, and Christmas is here
People are happy, there is holiday cheer
I'm shipping out tomorrow and forever I may gone
Oh how I would loved to have spent it, Christmas at home
Here I am in San Francisco, and it's Christmas eve tonight
They say I'm not old enough to vote
That I'm old enough to fight
My ship will sail tomorrow, and forever I may be gone
Oh what I'd give if I could just spend one more Christmas at home
Give me last December for Christmas this year
For last December I was holding my darling
I'm shipping out tomorrow, and forever I may be gone
#19 Johnny Slate A Soldier's Christmas 1965 · Single · A Soldier's Christmas / Merry Christmas Darlin' · Showboat # 1511 · USA
Annotation
The song "A Soldier's Christmas" (Showboat # 1511) dealt with soldiers and Christmas in general, rather than specifically referring to the Vietnam War. But its release coincided with an increase in US military involvement in South East Asia, and thus included in this list. Released in Santa Claus, Tennessee on Ray Scrivner's Showboat record label.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Showboat No. 1511 (659), matrix SK4M-4736, yellow label with red showboat logo; "A Soldier's Christmas" (R. Scrivner–P. Henson), 2:10, Buna Music (BMI). "Showboat Records, Santa Claus, Ind." [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Christmas is in the air, what I would give to be home this year
But I'll be far, so far away, only god will know just where
I'll be spending a lonely Christmas over here...
Don't forget a lonely soldier in your prayers...
The son of god who died to pay for all our sins
As we try to understand why we are in these distant lands
Please ask god to bring us safely home again
Genre: ♪ Country
#20 Ray Sanders Christmas Letter 1965 · Single · Christmas Letter / Missing Christmas Card · Stadium # 1115 · USA
Notes
- Soldier's perspective
- Christmas night - missing home

- Stadium Records 1115. A soldier on Christmas night, missing home. B-side "Missing Christmas Card" (1:15).
Genre: ♪ Country
#21 The Shirley Brothers The Sound of Bugles 1965 · Single · The Sound of Bugles / Heaven in Disguise · Two Guitars # T 901 · USA
Notes
The Sound of Bugles, folk rock, patriotic, soldier's perspective.
We are young, but today we must defend cause we believe in.
Going across the sea.
Notes
Written and produced by Ted Daryll (both sides). [From Discogs]
#22 Jimmy & Junior A Letter From Viet Nam 1965 · Single · A Letter From Viet Nam / That's Why My Heart Is Breaking Today · Three Star # 15661 · USA
Notes
- Bluegrass, patriotic, soldier's perspective, K.I.A.
- Say a pray each night for the American soldiers in Vietnam
- Protect the good old USA
- Combat description from the soldier
- I send you a letter when I get back from the line

- No catalogue number on the label. Published by Redwing Pub. Co.; pressed by Rite Record Productions, Inc. (15661/15662). [From Discogs] 15661; Vinyl 7" (45 rpm); 1965; United States. [From Rate Your Music]
#23 The Friendship Trio Battlefield's of Vietnam 1965 · EP · Harp # 15883 · USA
Notes
Battlefield's of Vietnam (Friendship Trio, The) Bluegrass. Ohio. [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM] Harp 15883; Vinyl 7" (33 rpm); 1965; United States. [From Rate Your Music] Harp Records, Cincinnati, Ohio. [From the Rate Your Music label page]
#24 Jimmy Murphy Take This Message to Mother 1965 · Single · Take This Message to Mother / Half a Loaf of Bread · REM # 45-378 · USA
Notes
Take This Message to Mother (Murphy, Jimmy) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM] REM Records, 1006 Main Street, Nashville, Tennessee. [From the Rate Your Music label page]
#25 Leon Wills The Unknown Soldier 1965 · Single · Call to Arms / The Unknown Soldier · Qualla # 196506 · USA
Notes
Country. "The Unknown Soldier" Nashville, Tennessee [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#26 George Morgan Dear John 1965 · Single · Dear John / Happy Endings (Are Only for the Movies) · Columbia # 4-43216 · USA
Notes
Dear John (Morgan, George) Soldier's perspective, lost love. Country music Post man handed me a letter, I was so happy, battle had just been won. It said: just to let you know my love for you is gone I wed another - please send back the picture of me [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#27 Billy Thomas and The Ky. Boys Shipping Out to Viet Nam 1965 · Single · Sweet Baby is Coming Back / Shipping Out to Viet Nam · REM # 45-388 · USA
Notes
Shipping Out to Viet Nam (Billy Thomas) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM] REM Records, 1006 Main Street, Nashville, Tennessee. [From the Rate Your Music label page]
Genre: ♪ Country
#28 Guy Howard I Am a Soldier 1965 · Single · I Am a Soldier / You Healed My Broken Heart · Jubilee # 45-5503 · USA
Notes
Psychedelic pop, soldier's perspective Far from my home, I have a sweetheart, says she'll wait Got a letter - she found somebody new Send me to battle, I will fight to die and never come back [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]

1966

President Lyndon Baines Johnson meets with the South Vietnamese Prime minister, Nguyen Cao Ky, at the Honolulu Conference, 8 February 1966
Key EventsIn 1966 the US continued its extensive Rolling Thunder bombing campaigns of North Vietnam and the Ho Chi Minh Trail through Laos and Cambodia. Moreover, the escalation of the ground war continued with increasing numbers of US troops sent to Vietnam. Johnson also encouraged its allies to send troops to help the US - Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Thailand, and the Philippines agreed. The UK and Canada refused.
  • 11 February: Johnson announces 200,000 troop increase
  • 19 March: South Korea sends another 20,000 troops
  • 1 September: French President de Gaulle denounces the war
  • 31 December: US military personal in Vietnam reaches 385,300

1966

#29 Gene Hatton and The Randells Viet Nam 66 1966 · Single · Viet Nam 66 / Traces of Tears in Your Eyes · Claudette # CL-0001 · USA
Annotation
The song "Viet Nam 66" (Claudette Records # 0001) by Gene Hatton and The Randells, released in Dayton, Kentucky, took the letter format, between a soldier and his family in the US. It drew attention to the plight of the soldier in Vietnam, especially focusing on his young age. At one point the soldier, sitting in a foxhole, reflected on the trivial and now seemingly unimportant arguments he used to have with his brother back home. The track started with a soldier receiving a letter from his mother. Then the soldier wrote a letter to his mother (spoken-word section). At the end, the listener heard a gunshot sound-effect, suggesting that the soldier had been killed in action (K.I.A.). Composed by Jim Fish.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Claudette Records, Dayton, Ky., CL-0001 (1258-45-CL-0001-A), red label, 45 RPM; "Viet Nam '66'" (Jim Fish), time 2:48, Claudette Pub., BMI. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Got a letter from mum today, to leave some love from so far away
And I'll answer the best I can from my foxhole, in Vietnam
Dear mum, don't worry about me in this land, I'll be alright
And I'll be home as soon as I can
Just say a little prayer mum at bedtime for me and I'll be coming home soon
Just wait, you'll see
Tell little brother he can go ahead and wear my clothes, remember how I used to fuss at home about those things
And by the way mum, I made an allotment out for you, now you can have some of those things you always said you could use
Well mum, I can't see the light much more tonight
It's getting dark here and there ain't much light
I'll guess I say goodbye to the best mum I fellow ever had
So I'll close for now and you give my best to....[GUNSHOT]
I am muddy yet I feel so cold
Only nineteen, but I feel so old
Got a rifle in my hand, just a lonesome GI in Vietnam
Show full lyrics (16 lines) ▾
Genre: ♪ Country
#30 Grady Owen Vietnam Blues 1966 · Single · 36 From Dallas / Vietnam Blues · Helton # 102 · USA
Annotation
In the song "Vietnam Blues" (Helton Records # 102) the narrating soldier traveled back to the US after a tour of duty in Vietnam. He started to miss his army platoon: "I got a case of the so long Vietnam blues" . Grady Lynn Owen (1936-1999), a Dallas, Texas based country singer, joined up with Gene Vincent and His Blue Caps in 1958 as a guitarist before going on to record several 7inch records.12
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Helton Records 102 (SoN 30222), pink and black label; "Vietnam Blues" (I. Russ), 2:25, Proctor Music BMI; produced by Russ Johnston; "Dist. by Sound of Nashville, Inc., 160 2nd Ave. S., Nashville, Tennessee". [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I'm packing my bags now for my last trip
I'm homeward bound on big long ship
Thought I'll be so happy just to see this day
But surely something is wrong for it's not that way
Yes I got a case of the so long Vietnam blues
I'm going to miss my first Sarg and his big mouth
Gonna miss my buddy here, he's from the South
They all shook my hand and said they're glad to see me go
But something in their eyes tells me it ain't so
I guess I got a case of the so long Vietnam blues
Well they just called my name so it's time to go
The guys ain't laughing and joking anymore
Genre: ♪ Country
#31 Charles E. Scott From Vietnam With Love Part I 1966 · Single · From Vietnam With Love · Attack # L-274 · USA
Credited on the record as L-Cpl Charles E. Scott (USMC).
Annotation
An interesting Vietnam soul song, called "From Vietnam With Love - Part I & Part II" (Attack Records # L-274), of a rather mysterious origin. The artist name on the label is "L-Cpl Charles E. Scott (USMC)" - that being "Lance Corporal" of the US Marine Corps, the third enlisted rank, above private first class and below corporal. It also said on the label "Recorded Live in Chu-Lai, Vietnam". But was this really recorded in Vietnam and was Charles E. Scott really a US soldier? No record of his military service has been tracked down yet. More likely, the recording of the song took place in Richmond, Virginia, the home of Charles Scott's Attack Records label, the "Virginia Sound" (as it claims), in the mysterious "American Building" (unable to track down this address). The label also released the record Funky Bootie under the name Prince Charles & the Royal Guards, a "Prince Charles Production", by "ChaScot Music" - presumably all named after the composer of the song, Charles E. Scott.

The song is a soul recitation from a soldier in Vietnam during mail-call time - therefore representing the military practice in which soldiers assemble to receive mail, with each soldier's name called out to pick up the mail. Featuring the sound-effects of gunfire and bomb explosions, and the casual strumming of a guitar in the background, the narrator tells us that he had received letters from his family, but not from his girlfriend, and so he expressed bitter disappointment. The soldier then recalled the last letter sent to him from his girl, and that not knowing whether his girl still loved him "in Vietnam, the greatest hurt a man will ever know" . The song ended with a very loud double gunshot, perhaps suggesting the death of the narrating soldier.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Attack Records L-274-1, "Virginia Sound (T.M.) Pat. Pend."; time 2:40; "Recorded Live in Chu-Lai, Vietnam"; Pub. Cha-Scot BMI; produced by Charles E. Scott; credited to L-Cpl Charles E. Scott (USMC); 206 American Building, Richmond, Va. [From the record label]
Lyrics
English
Two days ago we came back from the field
We had been out there 23 days...
Everybody was pretty happy to hear mail-call
All the fellows had received mail except me
Some of them had a smile upon there face
Some were laughing, some were meditating...
So I walked out of the tent and looked up at the sky
The sky was full of tears, and fell on my knees...
Dear Lord, why...for I had the best girl in the world...
They tell me that a man should never cry
So I guess I should wipe the tears away from my eyes
You see, my girl haven't wrote to me for about two months now
I get letter from the states - once in a while from my mother
She will write to me an tell me how the family is doing...
For I sure would like to hear from my girl...
I can recall the last letter that she wrote me
These are the words: 'My dearest darling
I still love you faithfully and I hope these word will find you still in love with me
Your kisses still lingers on my lips
And I still can feel the warmth of your arms'
Here in Vietnam...a man needs to love someone
It really hurts...
Here in Vietnam the greatest hurt a man will ever know is when he thinks the girl he loves, don't love him any more
Show full lyrics (24 lines) ▾
Also in: ▤ Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
#32 Charles E. Scott From Vietnam With Love Part II 1966 · Single · From Vietnam With Love · Attack # L-274 · USA
Credited on the record as L-Cpl Charles E. Scott (USMC).
Annotation: see “From Vietnam With Love Part I” above (same release).
#33 The Players I'm Glad I Waited 1966 · Single · Why Did I Lie / I'm Glad I Waited · Minit # 32012 · USA
Annotation
This track by the Chicago soul group The Players, a follow-on from He'll Be Back, appears to have been released on single under two different names: "I'm Glad I Waited" and "I'm Glad You Waited" - both with the same catalogue number and both the same song (Minit # 32012). It also featured on the album He'll Be Back. In the song "He'll Be Back" the soldier received his draft card and went to Vietnam. He promised his girl that he would be back. In this song the soldier has returned from Vietnam "fighting for Uncle Sam" . While fighting he suffered "moments of loneliness" but for his girl he "kept trying, trying" .
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Minit 32012 (MN-869), "A Product of Liberty Records", "A Division of Liberty Records, Inc., Los Angeles, California", black label; "I'm Glad I Waited" (Al Smith), Alstein Music Co., BMI, 2:45, "From the Minit album 'He'll Be Back' – LP-40006"; The Players, produced by Cal Carter, arranged by Riley Hampton. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
In Vietnam...I have been fighting for Uncle Sam
At times I thought that I'd never return
Here I am, now that I'm back
I hope that you will be better than before
I didn't want to leave you, but you know that I had to go
All I can remember was the tears in your eyes
Soldiers die all around me, you were still on my mind...
Moments of loneliness in my life but I know you were waiting
For your love I kept trying, trying and I could not fall
I'm so glad that you waited
Also in: ▤ Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
#34 The Mighty Hannibal Hymn No. 5 1966 · Single · Hymn No. 5 / Fishin' Pole · Shurfine # 21 · USA
Annotation
The song "Hymn No. 5" , a chilling narrative by a Vietnam soldier, crying out "there is no tomorrow" and missing home life. Written and performed by the Atlanta, Georgian soul man James T. Shaw, known as the Mighty Hannibal - he actually mentioned his home town on this track. He married the Atlanta soul singer Delia Gartrell who released the 1971 Vietnam War song "See What You Done, Done (Hymn No. 9)" about Vietnam and drug addiction, co-written by the two of them. This single by the Mighty Hannibal, originally released on the small Atlanta label Shurfine Records (# 021), was subsequently picked up by New York's Josie Records (Hymn No. 5 # 45-964). The founder of Shurfine, Wendell Parker, recalled that "it sold over 3,000 copies in Columbus, Ga., alone....White radio wouldn't play it. Black people didn't care; they had a harder row to hoe. When you're concerned with survival, you're not interested in social things. It was the G.I.s who ate it up".1 It started with the letter format, from a soldier in Vietnam to back home.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Shurfine Record No. 021 A, blue label, "Dist. Nationally by Sims Records, Inc."; "Hymn No. 5" (James T. Shaw), 3:10, Bold Lad-Cape Ann-, BMI; The Mighty Hannibal; Wendell Parker; #454. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I wrote my baby from Vietnam and...I said:
I want to see you, you know I want to see you
Sleeping in these foxholes hungry and cold...
I dreamed that I saw you...
I want somebody to tell my mother, I go yonder in Georgia
And tell me father that I'm way over here
In these trench hole covered in blood...
There is no tomorrow
Also in: ▤ Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
#35 Mike Williams Lonely Soldier 1966 · Single · Lonely Soldier / If This Isn't Love · Atlantic # 2339 · USA
Annotation
The track "Lonely Soldier" (Atlantic # 45-2339) by soul singer Mike Williams is narrated from the perspective of a soldier who is "off to fight a war that they say will make me free" . But all the soldier only felt loneliness, missing the woman he loves and his son. The son wanted to know "why must this war be" ? But the soldier could not find an answer. At the end of the song the soldier emotionally cried: "I'm tired of seeing people dying" . So this song dealt with the personal impact of the war both on the soldier and the family left behind, the death and hurt caused by war, and the frustration of having to fight when not really understanding the point / relevance of the conflict.

Billboard included the single in its spotlight section on 18 June 1966, announcing an "exciting debut for the soulful singer with this wailing blues ballad bemoaning a soldier's life".1 In the same edition Atlantic ran a full-page advert promoting the single, which said: "As timely as today's headlines! 'Lonely Soldier' Mike Williams", and then it quoted a review: "this is R & B dynamite, and such an outstanding performance that it could be a big pop hit".2 On 2 July 1966 the single bubbled under the Hot 100 at # 130, and then a week later, on 9 July, it entered the top 100 at # 88. It peaked at # 85 on 16 July. But it remained in the R&B chart - at # 38 on 13 August, and then falling to # 41 on 20 August.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Atlantic 45-2339 (A-10323), red and black label, 45 RPM, vocal; "Lonely Soldier" (Gaines-Leeper), 2:55, Pub. Pronto-Chevis, BMI; arranged and conducted by Gene Barge. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I'm a lonely soldier many miles from home
With a heart that is heavy but with a will that is strong
Behind I left a women so dear to me
I'm off to fight a war that they say would make me free
I'm a lonely soldier
My son called junior, smiling but with sympathy
All confused he asks the question: daddy, why must this war be?
I tried so very hard to explain...
It all seemed to be in vain, oh lord, I'm tired of hearing people crying
I'm tired of seeing people dying
Also in: ▤ Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
#36 William Bell Marching Off to War 1966 · Single · Share What You Got / Marching Off to War · Stax # S-191 · USA
Annotation
Another Vietnam related single from the southern soul singer William Bell, from Memphis Tennessee, the song "Marching Off to War" (Stax Records # S-191) focused on that moment when the troops left their homes and headed off to Vietnam - "standing at the station, troops waiting in line" . The soldier's loved one said that "she'd wait three years or more" , which made the soldier's "life worth living" . The single entered the R&B Billboard charts on 9 July 1966 at # 40, reaching its peak on 13 August, at # 27. It stayed in the top 50 for 8 weeks. See his two other Vietnam singles: "Soldiers Good-bye" (1966: Stax Records # 45-199) & "Lonely Soldier" (1970: Stax Records # STA-0070).
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Stax 45-191 (STX-10224), light-blue label; "Marching Off to War" (Floyd, Cropper), vocal, 2:45, Pub. East, BMI; "Distributed by Atlantic Record Sales, 1841 Broadway, New York, N.Y.". [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Marching off to war, ? I'm coming back
Marching off to war, field pack on my back
She kissed me at the door, she said she'd wait three years or more
She threw her arms around me, that made my life worth living for...
Standing at the station, troops waiting in line
Wives, sweethearts, and babies standing there waving and crying...
I got my rifle in my hand, but I'll be coming back
I'm going were the action is, I've got my pack on my back
Also in: ▤ Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
#37 Joe Tex I Believe I'm Gonna Make It 1966 · Single · I Believe I'm Gonna Make It / You Better Believe It, Baby · Dial # 4033 · USA
Annotation
Joe Tex, born Joseph Arrington Jr. (1933-1982), southern soul singer from Texas, recorded the track "I Believe I'm Gonna Make It" (Dial # 4033). A soldier received a letter from the home front, which gave him inspiration to fight and win: "I got your letter baby...I raised up and got two more enemies" . In the spoken-word extract, the narrator expressed disappointment that he did not marry his girl "before I left for Vietnam" , but then at the same time he did not want to leave her a widow. Note: furlough - a temporary leave of absence from military duty. The song referenced Jackie Robinson, the African-American baseball player. Written by Tex, and produced by Buddy Killen, founder of Dial. It featured on the album I've Got to Do a Little Bit Better (Atlantic # SD 8133). Billboard mentioned the song on 9 July 1966: "Lonely soldier theme and soulful Tex reading combine for a chart-topping disk", predicting it to reach the Top 60.1 Well, it made it to # 67, and stayed in the charts for 5 weeks, as listed in Billboard on 20 August.2 It reached # 9 in the R&B chart.3
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Dial 45-4033 (DL-10431), white "Plug Side" label; "I Believe I'm Gonna Make It" (Tex), 2:58, vocal, Pub. Tree, BMI; produced by Buddy Killen; "Distributed by Atlantic Record Sales, 1841 Broadway, New York, N.Y." [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
When I got your letter baby, I was in a foxhole on my knees
And your letter brought me so much drip, I raised up and got me two more enemies
I believe that I'm gonna make it
Tell everybody back home I'll be home before you can say Jackie Robinson
Oh yes I will, oh yes I will, sometimes I wonder do you really love me
Then I think of something sweet you once said to me and thought makes me feel so good inside
That I raised up and got me two more enemies
Baby, I wished a thousand times that we had got married before I left home for Vietnam
But then when I see so many of my buddies getting shot down all around me
Makes me kinda of glad that we waited cause I don't want to leave you at home being a widow
They've promised me a furlough on the 15th of next month
And I want you to say a prayer tonight that my furlough will come through so I can come home
Also in: ▤ Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
#38 The Creations Just Remember Me 1966 · Single · Just Remember Me / Times Are Changing · Globe # C 102 · USA
Annotation
The song "Just Remember Me" by the Creations (Globe Records # C 102), a Chicago soul group, whose members were Eugene Amos, Charles Boyd, Gerald Dickerson and Michael Wiggins - the final three went on to form The Contributors of Soul. They also worked with the Detroit soul group Brothers of Soul (who released a Vietnam War song a few years later in 1969 - "Wait for Me"). This song told the story of a soldier on his way to Vietnam: "the boys in Vietnam are waiting for me to come" . The new soldier asks his sweetheart not to forget him, and that it is better if they remain just friends because "I may never see you again" . However, he does not know this for a fact, so just in case, he pleads with her to "remember me" .
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Globe C 102 A, light-blue label; "Just Remember Me" (Middlebrook & Dickerson), Colfam, Giant Ent., time 2:30. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Girl, it's been so good the times that I've spent with you
Sweet loving, but my dear, sit down and listen
The boys in Vietnam are waiting for me to come
I don't want to go, but it must be so
So all I want you to do, it to just remember me girl
I'm so afraid that I may never see you again
So I think it would be better if I leave you as a friend
I don't know for a fact that I'll never come back
So all I want you to do, is to just remember me
Girl while I'm away, write everyday
So that I won't feel so sad
All the good times that we had
I love you so and this you already know
So all I want you to do, is to just remember me
Show full lyrics (15 lines) ▾
Also in: ▤ Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
#39 Johnny Shines So Cold in Vietnam 1966 · Album · Masters of Modern Blues Volume 1 · Testament # T-2212 · USA
Annotation
Johnny Shines, American Delta blues guitar player from Memphis, Tennessee, who specialised in slide guitar, toured with Robert Johnson in the 1930s and had the odd recording session in 1940s Chicago, although nothing was released at the time. But with the revival of folk and blues in the 1960s, Johnny Shines recorded this album featuring the track "So Cold in Vietnam" (Testament Records # T-2212), narrated from the perspective of a soldier, who missed his sweetheart.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
It's so cold in Vietnam
Worst than I can say
I know my baby will be happy when I sent her an engagement ring
I wonder what's the matter because I can't get no meat
Well some black cat will be walking down my street...
Well my mama is not happy
Sometimes I feel like crying
Also in: ▤ Blues songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Blues songs
#40 Johnny & Jon Christmas In Viet Nam 1966 · Single · Christmas in Viet Nam / Why Did You Leave Me · Jewel [Shreveport] # 776 · USA
Annotation
Southern soul singers Johnny and Jon (aka John Wilson and John Wessler), wrote the song "Christmas in Vietnam" (Jewel Records # 776), recorded in 1965, and released in 1966, during President Johnson's troop escalation. No biographical details known about this duo. But the label Jewel Records, founded by Stan Lewis in 1962, was based in Shreveport, Louisiana. A spoken-word introduction told the listener that there are "two lonely soldiers, fighting a war; they won't be home for Christmas day" . The singing harmonies of Johnny and Jon kick-in - the soldier expressed sadness: "it won't be merry this year" . At the end of the song, the soldier shouted "Vietcong, everywhere I go" , a reminder that the soldiers faced an enemy while others celebrated Christmas back home.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Jewel Records 776 (TM 1808), © 1965, "Produced by Jewel Records – 728 Texas St., Shreveport, La."; Su-Ma – BMI; "Christmas in Viet Nam" (John Wilson – F. R. Lewis – John Wessler), 3:07; credited to Johnny and Jon. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
This is the time of the year that we love so dear
I want to heat jingle bells
Everybody was so happy
Everybody was so gay
It won't be merry this year...
I'm in a fox hole baby, everybody fighting madly
Will it ever end, and everyone will be free
I can't let it bother me, something I know we may never see
Maybe I won't be home this time...
I'll write to you everyday...Vietcong, everywhere I go
Also in: ▤ Christmas Songs▤ Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Christmas Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
#41 The Singing Crusaders Soldier in Viet Nam 1966 · Single · Soldier in Viet Nam / Ships a Sailing · Songbird # 1060 · USA
Annotation
The gospel song "Soldier in Viet Nam" (Songbird Records # 1060) by The Singing Crusaders focused on religion, and how Jesus brought comfort to a soldier.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Song Bird 1060 (UV 11122), purple "Promotional Record" label; "Soldier in Viet Nam" (Sharp/Williams), Lion Publishing Company, Inc., BMI, 2:36; "World's Greatest Spirituals – Division of Peacock Records". [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
The other day I was standing
I met a soldier been wounded in Vietnam
I said 'the lord had bought you from a mighty long way'
He said, 'while I stood on the battlefield, the lord saviour and I cried out with a loud voice, Jesus...
I'm in your camp...
Soldiers dying by my side, stay by me Jesus...
I'm in your care when the storm arrives
Also in: ▤ Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
#42 Lalo Guerrero Soldado raso 1966 · Single · Soldado raso / No naci pa' soldado
Annotation
Double war-related single, with "Soldado raso" and "No naci pa' soldado" ("I Was Not Born to Be a Soldier") (Colonial # 533), released in Monterey Park, Califorinia, USA, by Lalo Guerrero - born 24 December 1916, in Tucson, Arizona, USA, and died 17 March 2005, in Rancho Mirage, California, USA. He has the nickname "The Father of Chicano Music". He also released La tragedia del 29 de Agosto / Homenaje a Ruben Salazar about the death of Mexican-American journalist Ruben Salazar, who died while covering the Chicano Moratorium protest march on 29 August 1970, discussed below. Also below, is his single Carta de un soldado.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
#43 Lalo Guerrero No naci pa' soldado 1966 · Single · Soldado raso / No naci pa' soldado
Annotation
Double war-related single, with "Soldado raso" and "No naci pa' soldado" ("I Was Not Born to Be a Soldier") (Colonial # 533), released in Monterey Park, Califorinia, USA, by Lalo Guerrero - born 24 December 1916, in Tucson, Arizona, USA, and died 17 March 2005, in Rancho Mirage, California, USA. He has the nickname "The Father of Chicano Music". He also released La tragedia del 29 de Agosto / Homenaje a Ruben Salazar about the death of Mexican-American journalist Ruben Salazar, who died while covering the Chicano Moratorium protest march on 29 August 1970, discussed below. Also below, is his single Carta de un soldado.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
#44 Don Mahoney & Jeana Clare At Mail Call Today 1966 · Single · Soldier's Last Letter / At Mail Call Today · Tear Drop # 3095 · USA
Notes
Soldier's Last Letter (Mahoney, Don & Jeana Clare)
At Mail Call Today (Mahoney, Don & Jeana Clare)

Houston, Texas - this due had a TV program.
Country, Vietnam-era covers of WW2 war songs.
A-side: soldier's last letter to mother. KIA.
B-side: mail call - letter from sweetheart: Dear John.
Notes
Tear Drop 3095, red-and-silver "D. J. Copy" labels, "A Div. of Crazy Cajun Ent., Inc., Conroe, Texas"; "Soldier's Last Letter" (E. Tubbs-H. Stewart), Cross, BMI, DMJC-1, and "At Mail Call Today" (G. Autry-F. Rose), Acuff-Rose, BMI, DMJC-2; credited to Don Mahoney and Jeana Clare; "A Huey P. Meaux Production", "Pasadena Sounds", 227 E. Sterling, Pasadena, Texas. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#45 Private Charles Bowens Christmas in Vietnam 1966 · Single · Rojac # Ra-111 · USA
Credited on the record as Private Charles Bowens & The Gentlemen From Tigerland.
Annotation
Another track with the name "Christmas in Vietnam" , but it is a different song to the Johnny & Jon single "Christmas in Vietnam" . It is credited to a "Private Charles Bowens", accompanied by the Gentlemen From Tigerland, and released on the New York based label Rojac (# RA-111). The song began with a military trumpet, and then a dark soul groove kicked in. In the chorus, the singer sadly moaned that "it's gonna be a dark, dark Christmas for me" . The soldier described his situation "in some foxhole, fighting the Vietcong" , and missing his sweetheart. He read her letter a "thousand times" . Even though the soldier missed home, he expressed support, or acceptance, of the official, government objective of the war: "I got to keep on fighting for liberty so that this world can stay free" . Composed by Jack Taylor.& Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Rojac RA-111 (1225), green label, "Printed in U.S.A.", Rojac Records, Inc., 417 West 126th Street, New York, N.Y. 10027; "Christmas in Vietnam" (Jack Taylor), 2:59, Streetcar Music, BMI; "A Gallo-Taylor Production", vocal; credited to Private Charles Bowens & The Gentlemen From Tigerland. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I have to spend my Christmas here in Vietnam
Out in some foxhole, fighting the Vietcong
It's a war, it just won't end, looks like I won't see my friends again
It's going to be a dark, dark Christmas for me
God knows I hate to kill
But I have to do it to survive
Sometimes I have to pinch myself to see if I'm I alive
I got to keep on fighting for liberty, so that this world can stay free
And I wish you a merry, merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
I'm sorry darling, but I can't be there
Even though we are many miles apart I can still feel your touch...
I received your letter baby, I've read it a thousand times
#46 Johnny Paycheck The Dying Hero 1966 · Single · Ballad of the Green Berets / The Dying Hero · Little Darlin' # LD-0011 · USA
Notes
Little Darlin' LD-0011, green and black "LD" label, "A Product of Audio Fidelity Records, Inc."; produced by Aubrey Mayhew. "Ballad of the Green Berets" (Sadler - Moore), Music Music Music, ASCAP, 3:29, matrix TK4M-1670; flip side "The Dying Hero" (Lytle - Mayhew - Kramer), Mayhew Music, BMI, 3:12, matrix TK4M-1671. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#47 Charlie Moore & Bill Napier Have I Come Home to Die 1966 · Album · Country Music Goes To Vietnam · King # 982 · USA
Notes
Both songs - featured on the LP Country Music Goes to Viet Nam.
Notes
King 982.

The front cover is titled "Country Music Goes to Viet Nam" and, on a central panel, "Country Music Goes to War, sung by Moore & Napier", flanked by the seals of the United States Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force on a red, white and blue stars-and-stripes design with silhouetted warplanes and tanks; the bottom slogans read "Moore & Napier sing red blooded songs" and "War songs for the true American".

Tracks listed on the cover: God Please Protect America, Is This a Useless War, Banjo Bugle, A Soldier's Prayer, Next Sunday Darling Is My Birthday, A Soldier's Grave, I'll Be Home, Filipino Baby, Have I Come Home to Die, Five String Special, Down Where the River Bends, When the Roses Bloom Again. The related single label for "Is This a Useless War" is King 45-6036 (K-45-12104), High Fidelity, blue label, (Moore-Napier), Soil-BMI, time 2:04, credited to Charlie Moore and Bill Napier. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#48 Hershel Gober I Need You So 1966 · Single · I Need You So / Proud American · ABC-Paramount # 45-10810 · USA
Credited on the record as 1st Lt. Hershel Gober.
Annotation
Shortly after the above, Gober signed a recording contract with ABC-Paramount. The back of the record introduced Gober, describing him as a "singing, songwriting GI in Vietnam...serving as advisor to Vietnamese militia forces in the Delta...The songs were written by Lt. Gober and taped in Saigon" - thus, this fitted into the "In Country" category. It also said that having been initially stationed in Germany, Gober requested a transfer to Vietnam, arriving there in 1965.1 On this record he goes by the title "1st Lieutenant". The contemporary folk song "Proud American" (ABC-Paramount # 45-10810) took a patriotic perspective, supporting the war and the fight for freedom: the "soldier, sailor, airman or marine...keeps America free" . He also criticised the demonstrators back home, making a reference to previous wars (presumably World War Two): "now if you carry a placard...remember...someone died to give you that right" .
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
ABC-Paramount 45-10810, white label marked "Promotion Copy – Not for Sale"; "I Need You So" (1st Lt. Hershel Gober), Pamco Music, BMI, 2:59, side AMP 45-13234, and "Proud American" (1st Lt. Hershel Gober), Pamco Music, BMI, 2:35, side AMP 45-13233; both credited to 1st Lt. Hershel Gober, arranged and conducted by Peter DeAngelis, produced by Bob Thiele.

The picture sleeve (ABC Records 10810) shows "Lieutenant Hershel Gober" in fatigues sitting on the grass playing an electric guitar, with a rifle beside him. The reverse is printed as an ABC-Paramount "Press Release – For Immediate Release": Gober, "a singing, songwriting G I in Viet Nam" serving as advisor to Vietnamese militia forces in the Delta, came to the attention of ABC-TV newsmen; the songs were written by him and taped in Saigon.

It adds that he is a native of Monticello, Arkansas, joined the U.S. Marines in 1956 and the U.S. Army in 1961, arrived in Viet Nam in December 1965, and was the subject of a segment of the ABC-TV news programme "Scope". [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
When I see the sun slowly sinking away
How lonesome, how blue am I?
I need you so...
And when I see the ripples on a stormy sea
Each ripple tells a story that's only known to me
There lost, there lonesome, and there wondering always
And when I hear the ripple...I wish that I had wings
So that I could fly, I'd fly to you my love, and we'd never part...
When I return we'll be together and we won't ever have to part
Genre: ♪ Pop
#49 Barry Sadler I Won't Be Home This Christmas 1966 · Single · I Won't Be Home This Christmas / A Woman Is a Weepin' Willow Tree · RCA Victor # 47-9008 · USA
Annotation
Barry Sadler - born in New Mexico (November 1940), he joined the US Air Force in 1957, and served in Vietnam with the 7th Special Force Group (the "Green Berets"), as a medic. Wounded in the Central Highlands southeast of Pleiku, he returned to the US. In 1966 he released the famous single The Ballad of the Green Berets (RCA Victor # 47-8739) which reached # 1 in the Billboard charts and stayed there for 5 weeks. The single, together with the album, sold over 9 million copies. He offered a military take on the Christmas song, in the track "I Won't Be Home This Christmas" (RCA Victor # 47-9008). The soldier told the listener that with "the jungle all around...I sit here in my foxhole" . He missed his loved one, and sent her a message: "merry Christmas from Vietnam" . He described how the soldiers made a Christmas tree and decorated it, with the sounds of war in the background.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
RCA Victor 47-9008, 45 RPM, matrix TPKM-6672, 2:14; "I Won't Be Home This Christmas" (Leonard Whitcup–Barry Sadler), Music, Music, Music, Inc., ASCAP; arranged and conducted by Sid Bass, producer Andy Wiswell. The white promotional label is marked "Plug Side" and "Not for Sale" (made in U.S.A.); the red stock label is "Made in Canada by RCA Victor Company, Ltd."

The picture sleeve front shows a photograph of "S/Sgt. Barry Sadler" in Special Forces beret and uniform under the RCA Victor "His Master's Voice" logo.

The back, headed Christmas "Special", lists 47-9008 "I Won't Be Home This Christmas" (2:14) and "A Woman Is a Weepin' Willow Tree" (2:28), with notes in English and French describing the A-side as the ballad of a soldier writing a letter to his family, sung by Sadler "who has lived the experience", and the backer as folksy. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I won't be home this Christmas, I'll be so far away but
With this load I'm sending you my love on Christmas day
Yes Christmas here is different
The jungle all around
I sit here in my foxhole and hear the war sounds
We made a little Christmas tree and decorated it with bits of spring...
And tiny silver bells
Just remember me this season and all my love is true
And if god is good next Christmas I will be home with you
Your picture I put next to my heart and with it I'll never part
So across the sea a stretch my hand
Merry Christmas, merry Christmas from Vietnam
#50 Joe Wild Thing King On My Way Home 1966 · Single · Hold Out / On My Way Home · Capitol # 5806 · USA
Credited on the record as Joe (Wild Thing) King.
Notes
Hold Out (King, Joe)
On My Way Home (King, Joe)

Both sides, soul.
A-side: combat, soldier's perspective, draft
Here I am, over here in Vietnam, fighting a war for Uncle Sam
In foxhole, dodging bullets
Buddy from home just arrived: said my sweetheart is going astray
Message to my girl - please hold out a bit longer
I don't want to be here, but I was drafted. I'll be home soon

B-side: soldier's perspective
Darling I'm at the airport in Saigon, got my discharge
Been in Vietnam for a year. Been thinkinh of you - on my way home
Notes
Capitol 5806, yellow promotional labels marked "Promotion Record, Not for Sale"; "Hold Out" (Preston Peters), 2:30, matrix 45-56886, and "On My Way Home" (Preston Peters), 2:33; both Hapmark Music, BMI, produced by Preston Peters. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#51 Ernie Cook Sad Sam 1966 · Single · Sad Sam / Shut Your Big Fat Mouth · Sims # 301 · USA
Notes
Sad Sam (Cook, Ernie)

Country / novelty. Combat, soldier's perspective.
Sam in Vietnam, injured in battle.
Praise for the nurses.
#52 Johnny Freeno There's a Long Long Trail 1966 · Single · There's a Long Long Trail / I'll Get By · Verve # VK-10398 · USA
Annotation
Notes
There's a Long Long Trail (Freeno, Johnny)

Traditional pop, soldier's perspective. War sound-effects.
Originally written in 1913 for WW1, by Stoddard King & Alonzo "Zo" Elliott
Lyrics update: soldier if KIA12
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Verve VK-10398-A (66-VK-236), "Special Disc Jockey Record"; "There's a Long Long Trail" (A. Elliott-S. King), 2:26, M. Witmark & Sons, ASCAP; arranged by Alan Lorber; MGM Records, a division of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc., made in U.S.A. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#53 Rudy Gaddis I've Been There Once 1966 · Single · I've Been There Once / Everybody Want's Somethin' (They Ain't Got) · USA
Notes
Tyler, TX. Country
Vietcong. Soldier's perspective - I ain't going back.
Saigon, Da Nang. Went there to entertain the troops
Draft card burning reference
Genre: ♪ Country
Also in: ▤ Draft Songs
#54 Chaz Cindy (Now I'm a Soldier) 1966 · Single · Cindy (Now I'm a Soldier) / Dream Boat Overseas · Picture # 6995 · USA
Notes
- Folk rock, soldier's perspective
- Don't forget me, you're mine
- I'll be coming home again

- Picture No. 6995 (S.O. 3889), pale green label; "Cindy (Now I'm a Soldier)" (Charles Shinn), 2:10, Kemisco Music, BMI; Chaz; produced by M. Machart. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#55 SFC Bill Haney Call to Colors 1966 · Single · Call to Colors / On the Loose · db # RCR-65-22 · USA
Notes
Call to Colors (Haney, Bill)

Fanfare / country, patriotic, soldier's perspective. South Carolina.
Story about the fighting GIs. I'm serving in Vietnam. Fighting spirit is there.
Paytime - night on the town (R&R)
Next day back to work. Medics, truck driver, green berets, marines, navy, airforce - one big team
Notes
Pressed by Sound Of Nashville (SoN 35041/35042), distributed by Richland Custom Recording. [From Discogs]

db Records RCR-65-22 (SoN 35041), 2:55; (B. Haney); Clay Music, BMI; distribution by Richland custom recording, Columbia, South Carolina. [From the record label]

Also issued on Cherry Records 4503 as by Sgt. Bill Haney, 2:47, (William J. Haney), McCloud Music BMI, 1705 Church St., Nashville, Tenn., with a different B-side. [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
#56 Ed Faucett and The Dewdrops Viet Nam Joe 1966 · Single · Hay Fever Blues / Viet Nam Joe · Big Red # 1236 · USA
Notes
Viet Nam Joe (Faucett, Ed) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM] 45rpm single, Big Red 1236 / 718B-4792; 1966; side B "Viet Nam Joe" (Ed Faucett). [From 45cat] Big Red, 1819 North Columbia Place, Tulsa, Oklahoma. [From the Rate Your Music label page]
Genre: ♪ Country
#57 Tony Dale Buona Sera from Viet Nam 1966 · Single · Buona Sera From Viet Nam / Tempo di giglio · San Remo # 247 · USA
Notes
- Released Roma, TX. - Hispanic. [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM] 247; Vinyl 7" (45 rpm); 1966; United States. [From Rate Your Music]
#58 Morris Cox Teenage Soldier 1966 · Single · I Wish I Was a T.V. Set (So You Could Look at Me) / The Teenage Soldier (The Other Side of the World) · Hal N' Jean # 45-1003 · USA
Notes
- Soldier's perspective, contemporary folk - I'm off to the war in Vietnam - Gallatin, Tennessee, USA [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]

1967

Martin Luther King Jr. at a press conference following his famous anti-Vietnam War speech "Beyond Vietnam: A time to Break Silence", 4 April 1967, at Riverside Church in New York City. Motown Records released the speech on their sub-label Black Forum Records, titled "Why I Oppose the War in Vietnam" in October 1970, which won the 1971 Grammy for spoken-word.
Key EventsUS troop numbers increased over 1967, as more large land offensives were launched, and bombing continued over North Vietnam (108,000 sorties, and 226,000 tonnage). Johnson created the Civil Operations Revolutionary Development Support (CORDS), to further integrate military operations with US pacification programs (to win 'hearts and minds'). The US also pursued a mass aid program for South Vietnam, with American goods and cash flowing into country, increasing the Americanisation of the south. While the pace and size of anti-war demonstrations in the US increased in 1967, a majority of public opinion (according to the polls) supported Johnson's escalation.
  • 13 February: US resumes bombing campaign of the North
  • 22 February: Beginning of largest US offensive - Operation Junction City
  • 8 March: Congress authorises $4.5 billion for the war
  • 4 April: Martin Luther King anti-war speech
  • 15 April: Mass anti-war demonstrations in New York ad other cities, attended by King
  • 30 June: US troop levels reach 448,800
  • 21 October: March on the Pentagon
  • 31 December: 485,600 US troops in Vietnam

1967

#59 Hardy Brendle Vietnam Blues 1967 · Single · Vietnam Blues / Careless Love · B.R.W. # 20133 · USA
Credited on the record as Hardy Brendle and His Virginia Pardners.
Annotation
A US soldier had a different sort of "Vietnam Blues" (B.R.W. Records # 20133) to the track above. In this song the soldier felt down about being in Vietnam, suffering from loneliness and fear: "I'm so alone, I'm so blue" . He also did not like the climate: "Vietnam it's so hot" . Yet, the soldier continued to do his job - as he "saw the Vietcong coming" , the GIs got out their M14s and chased them away. This was released under the artist name Hardy Brendle and His Virginia Pardners - which could suggest the location of the recording. However, the label was from North Carolina. Furthermore, there is a Hardy Brendle (1933-2003) who served in Vietnam as a Sargent, and died in NC, so probably the same person.1 He may have also played with the bluegrass group the Tidwell Brothers.2
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
B.R.W. 20133, Side 1, 45 RPM; "Vietnam Blues" (H. Brendle), time 2:33, Billy Wagner Music (BMI), Rt. 5 Box 512, Durham, N.C.; credited "Hardy Brendle and His Virginia Pardners". [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I've been over in Vietnam for almost a year
Wish you could tell me how to brush aware the fear
I'm so alone, I'm so blue, boy I'm here to tell you
I sure have those damn Vietnam blues...
Boys I'm here to tell you in Vietnam it's so hot
The GIs over there, they just don't know...
We looked over the river, we saw the Vietcong coming
We took our M14s and got them on the run
#60 Red Sovine Vietnam Deck Of Cards 1967 · Album · Phantom 309 · Starday # SLP 414 · USA
Annotation
Woodrow Wilson "Red" Sovine, a country singer who often played truck driving songs, narrated the track "Vietnam Deck Of Cards" (Starday Records # SLP 414), in which a man told a story about a soldier disciplined for playing with a deck of cards in church, having "arrived in a town called Saigon" on a Sunday. However, the soldier explained that the cards represented stories from the bible, therefore representing his religious faith. At the end of the song the narrator revealed that "friends, this story is true, because my son was that soldier" .

The idea for this song originally came from T. Texas Tyler who released "Deck of Cards" (4 Star Records # 1228) in 1948 about a World World Two soldier. In the same year Tex Ritter recorded a cover of this - "Deck of Cards" (Capitol Americana # 40114). Then Red River Dave produced a re-worked version for the Korean War in 1953 - "Red Deck of Cards" (TNT # TNT 1003).1 Dozens of covers of these various versions have since been recorded. In 1991 Bill Anderson re-wrote it for the 1st Gulf War - "Deck of Cards" (Curb Records # 76855).
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
In was during the Vietnam conflict a bunch of soldiers had been on a long hike and they arrived in a town called Saigon
And the next day being Sunday several of the boys went to church
After the chaplain read the prayer the text was taken out
Those of the boys who had prayer books took them out
But one boy had only a deck of cards, so he spread them out
The Sergeant in charge of the boys saw the cards
And said soldier put away those cards
And after the service was over the soldier was taken prisoner and brought before the provost Marshall....
The soldier replied...I've been on the march for six days and I had neither Bible nor prayer book
But I hope to satisfy you sir with the purity of my intentions
You see sir when I look at the ace it reminds me there is but one God
And when I see the deuce it reminds me that the Bible is divided into two parts...
It reminds me that in six days God made this great heaven and earth
And when I see the seven it reminds me that on the 7th day God rested...
So you see sir my deck of cards served me as a Bible...
And friends this story is true because my son was that soldier
Show full lyrics (17 lines) ▾
#61 Tiny Watkins A Soldier's Sad Story 1967 · Single · Soldier's Sad Story / Love Flows Like a River · Excello # 2287 · USA
Annotation
The title of Tiny Watkins soul song "Soldier's Sad Story" (Excello Records # 2287) sought to portray the feeling of the drafted soldier in Vietnam: "I'm not so very brave, but still I have to fight" . In a first person narration, at the end of the song the soldier pleads with the president, Lyndon B. Johnson: "LBJ...help me if you can" because "I don't want to lose my baby" , thus also reflecting a common fear among soldiers (often referred to in Vietnam War songs). This was the title track of the 2003 Vietnam compilation A Soldier's Sad Story: Vietnam Through the Eyes of Black America 1966-73 (Kent # CDKEND 226).
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Excello Records 2287 (8722); "Soldier's Sad Story" (Watkins), 2:58, Rub-Hu-Seeus BMI; produced by Rogana Prod.; arranged by Aaron Varnell. "Nashboro Record Co., 1011 Woodland St., Nashville, Tenn." [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I am a soldier in the US army
I'm not so very brave but still I have to fight...
Soon they'll say this terrible war is over
And I'll take this pack away from my back
And I'll head for home...
LBJ I know you mean to do good
I believe you would help me if you only could
But please, Mr. President help me if you can
I don't want to lose my baby
Also in: ▤ Draft Songs▤ Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Draft Songs ▤ • Lyndon B. Johnson (LBJ) Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
#62 Zerben R.Hicks & Dynamics Lights Out 1967 · Single · Lights Out / You Make Me Feel Good · RCA Victor # 47-9278 · USA
Credited on the record as Zerben R. Hicks and the Dynamics.
Annotation
This beautiful Detroit soul track "Lights Out" (RCA Victor # 47-9278), performed by Zerben Hicks and The Dynamics was narrated from the position of a soldier, writing a letter home to his loved one, pleading with her "to wait for me, we've got to hold on a little longer" . The narrator then cries out that if he makes it home then they will be together "while they play lights out" - perhaps a reference to a treasured song?
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
RCA Victor 47-9278, white promotional label marked "Plug Side" and "Not for Sale", matrix UPKM-5176; "Lights Out" (Banks), 2:53, Millbridge/Elbee Music BMI; Zerben R. Hicks and the Dynamics, arranged and conducted by Garry Sherman; producers L. Banks-T. Wiltshire, executive producer Paul Robinson; "A GWP Associates Ltd. Production."

The picture sleeve shows a painted image in sepia tones of a soldier in a jungle clearing reading a letter, and lists the flip side as "You Make Me Feel Good" by The Dynamics. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
My Darling, I've got you in this letter now
About how my love for you will never end
And so I guess I have to close my eyes
And dream about you because I can't make it without you
Lights out, baby I need you
Girl I want you to wait for me
We've got to hold on a little bit longer
One day I'll be there with you
While they play lights out
#63 Jim Jackson Welcome Me Home 1967 · Single · Welcome Me Home / Some Love With Soul · Sandbag # S102 · USA
Annotation
The song "Welcome Me Home" (Sandbag Records # S102) from 1967 looks at the returning soldier. Little is known of the artist Jim Jackson - signed to the New York based label Sandbag - who screams his way through this soulful track. It was composed by Jackson, produced by Mike Symansky (who founded the label), and arranged by Richard Bobeuf. The narrator, having returned home, wants to re-start his life: "I'll be your loving husband and you can be my lovely wife" . But he needs help to "forget all about Vietnam" because of its horrors, which he recalls: "lonely days" in a "rotten, god forsaken place" .
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Sandbag Records S102 (MS 3057), blue label with silver print; "Welcome Me Home" (Jim Jackson), 3:14, Ilene Music (BMI), Mr. Mike (ASCAP); produced by Mike Szymansky, arranged by Richard Babeuf. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Welcome me home
Try to make me feel like a king on the throne
Try make me forget all about Vietnam
Cause all I want to do right now is be in your ever loving arms...
Together we can start a brand new life
I'll be your loving husband and you can be my lovely wife...
Let me tell you how it really was when I was away
Sometimes a cried those lonely days
So I could get out of this rotten, god forsaken place
And I could ask you for your loving hand...
Just wipe away the tears from our eyes
And thank the lord...no more war
#64 Jesse James Believe in Me Baby Part I 1967 · Single · Believe in Me Baby Part I / Believe in Me Baby Part II · 20th Century Fox # 6684 · USA
Annotation
The love song "Believe in My Baby - Part I & II" (20th Century-Fox Records # 6684) by the soul singer Jesse James (aka James McClelland), from Arkansas, made a minor reference to the Vietnam conflict: "in Vietnam...seems like we are caught in such a deep, deep rut" .
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
20th Century-Fox Records 6684, black and gold label, "Distributed by ABC Records Inc."; produced by Jesse Mason Prod. "Believe in Me Baby - Part I" (James/Anderson/DeMell/DeSanto), Je-Ma Music & Chevis Music, BMI, time 3:15, matrix TF 80140; "Believe in Me Baby - Part II" (James/Thrower/Nelson/Crawford/Durio), Je-Ma Music, BMI, time 2:48, matrix TF 80141. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Though it may seem like bad luck is on our side...
Though it may seem like we're having such a hard time
But believe in me baby I know the sun will shine...
Though it may seem like the darkness may never never dawn
If you would only believe in me baby
The war in Vietnam has never been won
Though it may seems like we are caught in such a deep, deep rut
If you only stick with me baby, things got to go way up
Also in: ▤ Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
#65 Jesse James Believe in Me Baby Part II 1967 · Single · Believe in Me Baby Part I / Believe in Me Baby Part II · 20th Century Fox # 6684 · USA
Annotation: see “Believe in Me Baby Part I” above (same release).
#66 Soul Searchers Christmas in Viet Nam 1967 · Single · Christmas in Viet Nam / Lord Help Me · Songbird # 1187 · USA
Annotation
The song "Christmas in Vietnam" (Songbird Records # 1187), released in 1967 by the Soul Searchers, is fairly similar to the Johnny and Jon track. Written by A. Pointer, this gospel / soul song starts with a talking intro, telling the listener that "a lonely soldier laid dying in a foxhole in Vietnam" . Thinking about Christmas back home in the US, the soldiers start singing - group harmonies enter at this point, moaning "jingle bells" . Released in Houston, Texas on Don D. Robey's gospel record label, founded in 1963.1
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Songbird 1187 (LRS 11408), "Promotional record", 2809 Erastus St., Houston, Texas 77026, "World's greatest spirituals – Division of Peacock Records"; "Christmas in Viet Nam" (A. Pointer), 2:45; Lion Publishing Company, Inc., BMI. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
A lonely soldier laid dying in a foxhole in Vietnam
A friend of his walked over and knelt down beside him
Did you know its Christmas back home
What we should do here today is have Christmas in Vietnam
Slowly they began to sing a song, that goes something like this
Jingle, jingle bells, jingle, jungle bells, what do you know
It's Christmas in Vietnam, merry Christmas
Also in: ▤ Christmas Songs▤ Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs
#67 Eugene The Last Letter 1967 · Single · The Last Letter · Impex # 5-66 · USA
Notes
Last Letter, The (Eugene)

Soldier's perspective - in combat, battle sound-effects.
Writes letter to sweetheart, surrounded by the enemy.
It might be his last letter.
But someone has to fight - KIA??
Notes
Impex Records 5-66 (T4KM 8199), white "Promotion Copy" label, rubber-stamped "NOV 27 1967", Impex Records, 4 Mason Drive, Hazlet, N.J., Made in U.S.A.; "The Last Letter" (Eugene Viscione), Ray Herbert Music BMI, time 2:30; produced by Falcone-Viscione Productions. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#68 Pompeo Stillo A Letter to My Mother from Vietnam 1967 · Single · A Letter to My Mother From Vietnam / He Was a Guitar Player and Now Plays Machinegun in Vietnam · Centaur # IFK 302 · USA
Credited on the record as Pompeo Stillo (Vocalist) & The Companions.
Notes
Centaur IFK 302, blue labels with silver centaur logo, Saper Music BMI; Side A "A Letter to My Mother from Vietnam" 3:55, Side B "He Was a Guitar Player and Now Plays Machinegun in Vietnam" 2:45, both written by Pompeo Stillo and credited to "Pompeo Stillo (Vocalist) & The Companions". The plain company sleeve is rubber-stamped "Saper Music Publishing — Tony Stillo — 245 West 112th Place, Chicago, Illinois 60628" (the composer's own publishing address) and carries a jukebox title strip reading "He Was a Guitar Player Now Plays Machine Gun in Viet Nam / Pompeo Stillo / A Letter to My Mother from Viet Nam". [From the record sleeve and labels]
Artist credited as 'Pompeo Stillo & The Companions'. US release (not Italy). Published by Saper Music; rights society BMI; matrix IFK-302A / IFK-302B. Credited to Pompeo Stillo & The Companions on Centaur (IFK 302), a US release; the B-side 'He Was a Guitar Player and Now Plays Machine Gun in Vietnam' is about a boy who joined the army and swapped his guitar for a machine gun.
#69 Barbara March Private First Class So and So 1967 · Single · Private First Class So and So / I'm Gonna Leave You · Wal Dee # WDR-45-7 · USA
Notes
Private First Class So and So (March, Barbara)

Teen pop, country style. Child / teenager? Draft.
Narrated by sweetheart of a man who received his draft card - classified 1A.
He went to training camp, and then overseas.
Papers reported a fire fight in the war.
She then received a telegram which said that he had been killed in action (KIA).
Notes
Wal-Dee WDR-45-7, Side A, yellow label with a shield-and-jet logo; "Private First Class So and So" (March-McGuire), 3:05, Waldee Publishing Co., BMI, and Thrush Music, BMI; arranged and produced by Robert Mersey. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Genre: ♪ Teen Pop
#70 The Front Line Saigon Girl 1967 · Single · Saigon Girl / 3 Day Pass · Titan # FF-2001 · USA
Notes
"Saigon Girl"

Garage rock
Notes
Titan FF-2001, "The Giant of Sound", Titan Record Co., 1951 Holmby Ave., Los Angeles 25, California; produced by Furth-Gold. A side (45-TI-2001-A): "Saigon Girl" (Firth, Perry, Bagen), group vocal, 2:10, Dolly Bee Music, Hillart Music, Castaway Music (BMI), arranged by Geo. R. Brown. B side (45-TI-2001-B): "3 Day Pass" (Leon Becken), instrumental, 2:20, Dolly Bee Music, Hillart Music, Ellis Gold Pub. (BMI), arranged by Al Valenzuela. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#71 Sgt. Frank Carter Straight-Leg-Soldier 1967 · Single · Straight-Leg-Soldier / War Is Hell · Dixie # C-1114 · USA
Notes
Straight-Leg-Soldier (Carter, Frank)
War Is Hell (Carter, Frank)

Country. Charlotte, North Carolina.
Combat, soldier's perspective. Both sides.
A-side: received draft card. Went to training, shipped to Vietnam.
Viet Cong all around, bad place to play the guitar!
B-side: leans towards anti-war.
Notes
Dixie C-1114, black and cream label, Dixie Record Company, Charlotte, manufactured in U.S.A.; "Straight-Leg-Soldier" (Carter), Hypo Music, BMI, time 3:00; flip "War Is Hell" (Carter), Hypo Music, BMI, time 2:35. The "Straight-Leg-Soldier" label carries an ink autograph. [From the record sleeve and labels] Dixie Records, P.O. Box 115, Madison, Tennessee. [From the Rate Your Music label page]
Genre: ♪ Country
#72 Tony Mason Take Good Care 1967 · Single · Take Good Care / Seeing Is Believing · RCA Victor # 47-9104 · USA
Annotation
The 1967 soul song "Take Good Care" , released on RCA Victor (# 47-9104) is about a man drafted to Vietnam: "I must answer my country's call, I must go and fight in a war" . He doesn't want to go, but his girl asks him to take good care and "come back to me" , which helps him make it through the difficult war conditions, such as "lying in ditches so deep, missiles flying over my head" . Tony Mason, based in New York, had worked with the R&B producer and writer George Kerr. The song, which opened with an interesting inter-play between a trumpet and a xylophone, followed by Mason's soulful lyrics and a large backing orchestra, was written by M. Thomas and conducted by Richard Tee.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
RCA Victor 47-9104 (TPKM-7940), white promotional label marked "Plug Side" and "Not For Sale"; "Take Good Care" (M. Thomas), Hara Music, ASCAP, 2:36; arranged and conducted by Richard Tee; producers George Kerr & Paul Robinson; made in U.S.A. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I remember the night I said goodnight
Tears were flowing from my baby's eyes
I told her, I must answer my country's call
I must go and fight in a war
She said, 'take good care and come back to me'
I've been lying in ditches so deep
Without socks and shoes on my feet
Missiles flying over my head
Sometimes lying close to the dead
I feel like giving up
But then I hear my baby say
'Take good care': that's when I get tough
Brave soldier don't cry
But I've got tears in my eyes
Show full lyrics (15 lines) ▾
#73 Danny Bassett Teenage Soldier 1967 · Single · Day After Day / Teenage Soldier · Melron # MR-5011 · USA
Notes
Teenage Soldier (Bassett, Danny)

Folk rock, teen pop. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
Soldier boy, 17 - god protect him. But KIA.
Notes
Melron Records 5011, MR-5011 B, vocal; "Teenage Soldier" (Bassett - Stark), time 2:10, Moonlake Pub., B.M.I.; "A Lewel Production"; "Dist. by Melron, 5007 F. St., Phila. 24, Pa." [From the record sleeve and labels]
#74 Ric King The Return of a Soldier 1967 · Single · The Return of a Soldier / Hymn to a Returning Soldier · Capitol # P 5845 · USA
Notes
Return of a Soldier, The (King, Ric)
Hymn to a Returning Soldier (King, Ric)

A-side:
Fanfare, soldier's perspective.
Glad to be home from Vietnam - drive through the town, recalls old time, hang-outs, old friends, his girlfriend, his dog, his football coach, the banker etc. But it is in fact his funeral that the town has gathered for - KIA.
Some early descriptions of PTSD (even though the narrator is dead) - cannot forget the jungle, nightmares about Vietnam.
B-side: instrumental.
Notes
Capitol P 5845, yellow-green "Promotion Record — Not for Sale" label; "The Return of a Soldier" (Eddie White-Lex de Azevedo), 2:40, Bear Music, Inc., ASCAP, Ric King, matrix 45-57051; "Hymn to a Returning Soldier" (Lex de Azevedo), 2:20, Beechwood Music Corporation, BMI, with no vocalist named, matrix 45-57052; both sides arranged, conducted and produced by Lex de Azevedo. In a Capitol Records company sleeve. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#75 Bobby Atkins A Soldiers Return 1967 · Single · A Soldiers Return / There's Not Enough Words · Tornado # T-148 · USA
Notes
Country, patriotic, soldier's perspective. K.I.A.
Notes
Tornado Records - U.S.A. T-148 (U4KM-4827), 45 RPM, white label stamped "D.J. Copy", "File Under C & W Music"; "A Soldiers Return" (Perkins/Pinnix), 3:15, Live-Wire/B-W Music, Inc. (BMI); Bobby Atkins; described on the label as "Bluegrass Vocal/Accompaniment ("Patriotic")". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#76 Dennis Filkin, Gail Keener and The Madlads He'll Never Know 1967 · Single · He'll Never Know / When Hope Is Gone · Tren / Dell # 102 · USA
Notes
Garage folk / rock, from Norfolk, Virginia, USA.

The song "He’ll Never Know" (Tren / Dell Records # 102)
Notes
Tren/Dell Records, Record 102, green label, matrix codes UK4M-3357 and 662T-3357; "He'll Never Know" (Schwartz-Keener), 3:32, O'Dell Music and Mimic Music, BMI; produced by Sound O'Dell Studios, Norfolk, Va.; credited to Dennis Filkin, Gail Keener and The Madlads. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
San Francisco was our port of embarkation
We hear that Vietnam would be our destination
Darling, that’s when I read your letter saying our love was dead
And my reason for living was gone
I cried all the way from San Francisco Bay to the bloody, steaming jungles of Vietnam
I lay here trembling as the bullets fly
No reason left for living, still, I don’t want to die
I lay here trembling as the bullets fly
Give my life for my country, but you made me cry
Then my reason for living was gone
Mail call!
It’s getting so dark I can hardly see
I think I’ll just strike a small light and see what she wrote to me
(Spoken epilogue:) Even though he’ll never know, this is what she wrote:
Darling, I didn’t mean the things I wrote to you
I love you so much, you know I’d never hurt you
I was just upset because you didn’t write to me
I didn’t know you were too busy preparing to go overseas
And so, as the sun sets in your part of the world tonight
Remember, I love you
P.S: Darling, please write
Show full lyrics (22 lines) ▾
#77 5 Williamson Bros. Why Uncle Sam Called for Me 1967 · Single · King of the Winos / Why Uncle Sam Called for Me · Gold Star # 00202 · USA
Notes
Gold Star Records 00202 (Evergreen, North Carolina); B-side; producer Ken Galloway; pressed by Wakefield Manufacturing; published by Gold Letter Pub. Co.

Label: written by J. Williamson; 45 RPM, time 3:09; Rt. 1, Evergreen, North Carolina. [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
Also in: ▤ Draft Songs
#78 Bobby Lile Hard Way to Go 1967 · Single · Hard Way to Go / They Just Don't Make 'Em Like Her Anymore · Sidewalk # 912 · USA
Notes
A-side: Folk rock, draft letter, soldier's perspective.
Giving me a license to kill,
Doing what I'm being told in Vietnam.
I'll make it back, please write to me
Notes
Promotional copy, not for sale (A side); Mirby Music, Exbrook Publishing Company, Rollo Music Co., BMI, 2:09; 45-61124; written by B. Lile; arranged and produced by Bob Summers. [From the record label]
Also in: ▤ Draft Songs
#79 Ferrell Faulk Vietnam 1967 · Single · Vietnam / We'll Just Forget the Deal · Rimrock # RS 230 · USA
Credited on the record as Ferrell Faulk & The Arkansas Hawk.
Notes
Vietnam (Faulk, Ferrell)

Country. Concord, Arkansas, USA
Soldier's perspective.
Reluctant to go to war
Hope you never have to go to keep America free
Hope the kids get to go to their senior prom
Notes
Published by Oleta; pressed by Rimrock Mfg. Co. [From Discogs]

Rimrock RS 230A; (F. Faulk); Oleta, BMI; "The Arkansas Hawk"; Rimrock Records, Concord, Arkansas. [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
#80 Rena Wright Message to My Soldier Boy 1967 · Single · This Angry World / Message to My Soldier Boy · Tide # T-45-2017 · USA
Notes
Home front, soldier's perspective, traditional pop, religion.
You're not alone, I'll pray for you each day.
Keep our country free.
Fighting so we can live in harmony
Notes
Discogs lists Message To My Soldier Boy as side A and This Angry World as side B. Written by Triune; published by Cepha Publishing Co. (BMI). [From Discogs]

Tide T-45-2017 (T-2017-AA), 2:40; (Triune); Cepha Pub. Co., BMI; 2146 West View St., Los Angeles 16, Calif. [From the record label]
#81 Jim Hendrix She's Going Home With Me 1967 · Single · She's Going Home With Me / Summer Rose · Tonka # No. 2 · USA
Notes
Soldier's perspective. K.I.A. From Houston, Texas. Folk / country [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM] 45rpm single, Tonka 2 / NO. 2; 1967; side A "She's Going Home With Me" (Rusty Wright). [From 45cat]
Genre: ♪ Country
#82 Durl Pittman To Mom from Viet Nam 1967 · Single · To Mom From Viet Nam / A Woman Is a Woman · Spruce # 7-7402 · USA
Genre: ♪ Country
#83 Al Drinkman In Care of U.S.A. 1967 · Single · In Care of U.S.A. / Why Won't Those 6 Strings Talk to Me · Ken # 45-102 · USA
Genre: ♪ Country
#84 The Tar Heel Drifters No Letter from Home 1967 · Single · No Letter From Home / Long Legged Guitar Pickin Man · WM # 20037 · USA
Notes
"No Letter From Home" [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM] WM 20037; Vinyl 7" (45 rpm); 1967; United States. [From Rate Your Music] WM Records, Cherryville, North Carolina. [From the Rate Your Music label page]
#85 Leroy Pullins Oriental Girl 1967 · Single · Gypsy Rose and I Don't Give a Curse / Oriental Girl · Kapp # K-863 · USA
Notes
Oriental Girl (Leroy Pullins) Rockabilly, soldier's perspective, Vietnamese girls, combat Sent me overseas to Asian war, met a local lady in Saigon - love from the start No Viet Cong could take our love away. Want to bring her back stateside Order came to go out, north of the DMZ, gone for a week I returned, she was gone - killed by a grenade in Saigon [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
#86 Sgt. Gayle Parker Soldiers Prayer 1967 · Single · Waitin' for the V.C. to Come / Soldiers Prayer · Trump # 358 · USA
Genre: ♪ Country
#87 Jimmy Griggs Charlotte North Carolina 1967 · Single · Charlotte North Carolina / Who Will Buy the Wine · Boot Heel # BH 107 · USA
Notes
Charlotte North Carolina Country. Soldier's perspective - from San Francisco to the war. Will I ever see Charlotte again. Soon I'll be fighting, to kill. Lord don't let me die so far from home [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#88 Ferlin Husky and The Hushpuppies General G 1967 · Single · General "G" / What Am I Gonna Do Now · Capitol # P 5852 · USA
Notes
Country, soldier's perspective Year since I left against my will I'm so lonely, reached destination with other men. I'll ask General "G" (God) to send me home [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#89 Benny Barnes The Same Old Boat 1967 · Single · The Same Old Boat / I'm Her Lover · Musicor # MU 1247 · USA
Notes
- Country, soldier's perspective, novelty - I don't mind dying for my country, we're on the same boat, will it sink? - Here I am in Vietnam in a foxhole [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
#90 Gene Gullette Linda Lou 1967 · Single · Teach Me / Linda Lou · Thunder # 834G-3269 · USA
Notes
Vietnam War love song, "Linda Lou". A man is drafted to war and fights the Viet Cong while longing for his girl Linda Lou:
Notes
Thunder Records 834G-3269 (Pekin, Illinois), RCA custom pressing; producer Gene Gullette; published by Gullette Music.

Label: Thunder Records © 1967; vocal & inst., 2:58; BMI – Pending, Gullette Music; matrix W4KM-3270; signed on the label by Gene Gullette. [From the record label]
Lyrics
English
Down the road, just a mile or two lived a little girl called Linda Lou
Hair was black and her eyes were blue, I love a girl called Linda Lou
We would meet and walk each night...We had made are future plans...
Then one day a letter came, Uncle Sam had staked his claim
I had to go and fight the war...Linda wrote me everyday...
Then that night the battle came, the Viet Cong they fought insane
I pray to god
Genre: ♪ Country
Also in: ▤ Draft Songs

1968

American soldiers under attack in Saigon, during the Viet Cong Tet Offensive, launched on 30 January 1968, seen as a key turning point in the conflict
Key EventsUS troops numbers in Vietnam continued to rise significantly in 1968, reaching 536,000 by December. Yet the most significant event occurred at the beginning of the year, with the launch of the Tet Offensive. Launched on 30 January by the Vietcong and North Vietnamese Army (NVA), on the Tet Lunar New Year, the wave of attacks on the South and on the US embassy in Saigon shocked the US public and led to a major re-assessment of the US role in Vietnam. In the November 1968 US presidential election, won by Richard Nixon, all the major candidates supported withdrawal. Unknown to the US public at the time, members of Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 20th Infantry massacred over 300 Vietnamese civilians at My Lai.
  • 30 January: NVA and Vietcong launch Tet Offensive
  • 16 March: My Lai Massacre led by Lt. William Calley [not released to public]
  • 31 March: Johnson decides not to seek re-election
  • 4 April: Assassination of civil rights leader Martin Luther King
  • 10 May: Peace talks start in Paris
  • 1 July: General Westmoreland replaced by General Abrams
  • 28 August: Anti-war protest outside Democratic National Convention, Chicago
  • 31 October: US Rolling Thunder bombing campaign halted
  • 5 November: Richard Nixon elected US president
  • 27 November: Henry Kissinger appointed National Security Adviser

1968

#91 The Animals Sky Pilot 1968 · Single · Sky Pilot (Part 1) / Sky Pilot (Part 2) · MGM # K-13939 · UK
Credited on the record as Eric Burdon and The Animals.
Annotation
The song "Sky Pilot" (MGM Records # K-13939), by the British psychedelic rock band the Animals, featured on the 1968 album The Twain Shall Meet. The group formed in 1962 in Newcastle upon Tyne, Northumberland, UK. The song is typically thought to be about the Vietnam War, although the band mainly referenced the Second World War. Billboard reviewed one of the group's live shows, on 30 March 1968. They wrote that the "group employed a variety of light show effects...In 'Sky Pilot', for example, photos of World War Two scenes, including shots of Adolf Hitler, were used. Then, during a climatic battle sequence, waves of incense-laden smoke was wafted from the stage to the audience. The song, dealing with clerical blessing of battle troops, was aimed at World War Two, but the topicality of the message was clear".1

It told the story of an army chaplain blessing a group of troops setting out for war. Some interpreted this as an anti-war, protest song because of lines like "the stench of death drifts up to the skies... remembers the words 'thou shalt not kill'" - which is really a religious reference in relation to the chaplain at the centre of the story. The song also perhaps expressed some patriotism: "the fate of your country is in your young hands, may God give you strength, do your job real well" . On the whole, the song is about the plight of the soldier and a criticism, or exposure, of the support sometimes given to war by organised religion. It reached # 14 in the Billboard Hot 100 Chart in August 1968.2 Suggested by psychman.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
MGM K 13939: "Sky Pilot (Part One)" (104,896), BMI, 2:55, and "Sky Pilot (Part Two)" (104,897), BMI, 4:30, both written Burdon-Briggs-Weider-Jenkins-McCulloch, publishers Slamina Music, Inc. & Sea-Lark Enterprises, Inc.; produced by Tom Wilson, arranged and orchestrated by Vic Briggs; credited to Eric Burdon and The Animals. Label rim: "MGM Records – A Division of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Inc. – Made in U.S.A." [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
He blesses the boys as they stand in line
The smell of gun grease and the bayonets
They shine, he's there to help them all...
Sky pilot.....sky pilot, how high can you fly
You'll never, never, never reach the sky...
Tells them its all right, he knows of their fear
In the forthcoming fight, soon there'll be blood
And many will die, mothers and fathers back home they will cry...
The fate of your country is in your young hands
May god give you strength
Do your job real well, if it all was worth it...
The stench of death drifts up to the skies...
Remembers the words, "thou shalt not kill
Genre: ♪ Rock
#92 Ricky Dean Flowers 1968 · Single · Flowers / I'll Never Love Another · Original Sound # OS-84 · USA
Annotation
The song "Flowers" (Original Sound # OS-84) is a teen / psychedelic pop song which looked at the impact of the war on soldiers. The narrator is about to return home, his tour is finished: "I'm coming home, my time is done" . However, he is killed in action before returning. This single was released in Hollywood, California, USA. Ricky Dean is a Mexican-American, born Rick Martinez.1 Composed by Paul Buff and Ricky Dean. Allison Buff is the female vocalist.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Original Sound OS-84 (or-171), 7120 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood 46, Calif., white "Promo Copy — Not for Sale" label marked "Plug Side", compatible mono/stereo; "Flowers" (P. Buff, R. Martinez), Drive-In Music (BMI), 2:31; produced by Paul Buff. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
The sun will warm her flowers
The April sky will bring them showers
In the darkness they will sleep, until the morning they will keep
While their sleeping she will weep
But not for long, I'm coming home, my time is done
I'll soon be leaving, this land so full of tears and grieving
In the morning I'll be gone
Someone else can carry on
I'll be coming home tomorrow, the lights are low, everyone, is sleeping
All the guns are quiet, everyone is sleeping
My sun will warm his flowers
The April sky will bring him showers
In the darkness he will sleep, till the morning I will weep
Also in: ▤ Mexican-American / Hispanic Songs▤ US Military & Veteran Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Mexican-American Songs
#93 Emanuel Laskey A Letter From Vietnam 1968 · Single · More Love (Where This Came From) / A Letter From Vietnam · Westbound # W-143 · USA
Annotation
The 1968 song "A Letter From Vietnam" (Westbound Records # W-143) by Detroit soul singer Emanuel Laskey, displayed sympathy for those fighting. In a first person account, a soldier in Vietnam send home his love. The soldier is there "not by chance nor choice" - thus a draftee - yet the soldier has "no remorse" and that it is "a burden to bare" . In the spoken-word section the soldier expressed his fear of the war, and that the US needed to win for those that had died: "I've lost a many a friend, that's why we've got to win" . Subsequently re-released in 1969 - "Never My Love / A Letter From Vietnam" (Westbound Records # W-151).
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Westbound Records W-143B, light-blue label, matrix ZTSC-141441; "A Letter From Vietnam" (M. Hanks), time 2:35, Bridgeport Music (BMI); produced by M. Hanks; artist printed "Emanuel Lasky". A second label is Westbound W 151-B on the psychedelic Westbound design, "Westbound Records, Inc. – Detroit, Mich.", with the same song, writer, time, publisher and producer, credited to Emanuel Laskey. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I'm over here not by chance nor choice
And you better believe it, I have no remorse
Now if I had my way I'd be back in your arms to stay
So hold on there, this will be over before long
It's a burden to bare but somebody somewhere cares about are future...
Now I could start this letter by saying I'm doing just fine
And hope by time this letter reaches you, you'll be doing just the same
I could even go so far to say that I'm really not afraid, but I'd only be lying...
I've lost a many a friend, that's why we've got to win
Meanwhile, I'll keep writing these letters home
#94 Bobby Joy Letter From a Soldier 1968 · Single · Letter From a Soldier / You Sweet Devil You · Sentry # 103 · USA
Annotation
Another obscure, wonderful soul Vietnam song, "Letter From a Soldier" (Sentry Records # 103), by Bobby Joy, played at a very slow pace, which takes the form of a soldier writing back home, expressing his loneliness at being "way over here" and "on the other side" , as well as pleading with his girl to stay true to him while he is gone. Nevertheless, he says that he understands "why the world's got to be free" .
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Pale-blue Sentry Records label with a centaur-archer logo, No. 103-A; "Letter From a Soldier" (C. Hunter, B. Beatty), Philly Sounds Music BMI, time 2:59; produced by B. Beatty and C. Hunter, arranged by Robt. Banks and Larry Lucie. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Oh my darling, it's so lonesome over here
So far from the one I love and hold so dear
Baby I'm way over here
But my darling there is so much over here to see
Now I know why the world's got to be free
If you should get lonesome waiting for me
There is something I want you to do
Just remember there's a lot of girls that are lonesome too
Waiting for their guy on the other side
Tonight when you bow down
Oh please say a little prayer for me and for the other guys on the other side
#95 Kip Anderson Letter From My Darling 1968 · Single · Letter From My Darling / Watch You Work It Out · Excello # 2298 · USA
Annotation
Southern soul singer Kip Anderson took the letter format in the 1968 song "Letter From My Darling" (Excello Records # 2298). Born Kipling Taquana Anderson (1938-2007) in Starr, South Carolina, he started his recording career with the small Derrick Records, founded by Charles Derrik, releasing the 1959 single "I Wanna Be the Only One". It was then leased out to the larger Vee-Jay Records.

Ten years later, Derrik produced this emotional Vietnam track, in which a "lonely soldier" receives the "sweetest letter" from his girl, saying "I love you, faithfully...even though we are far apart" . As the trumpets and strings build toward the end of the song, the girlfriend tells the soldier "I'm gonna kiss your picture, but I just wish it was you." So the song is a good representation of mail call time in Vietnam, as well as displaying the loneliness of both the soldier and those back home. Billboard ran an advert promoting the single on 27 April 1968.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Excello 2298, turquoise label, "Dist. by Nashboro Record Co., Nashville, Tenn."; "Letter From My Darling", time 3:35, Lois Music BMI; "A Charlie Dee Production". No writer credit printed. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
A lonely soldier sitting on his bedside
He was thousands of miles away from his home
He opened up a letter from the one he loved so dearly
This was the same girl that he had to leave behind
And as he began to read her letter, the tears filled his eyes
He looked at his buddy beside him, these are the word he said:
This is the sweetest letter that I have ever read
It was written by my sweetheart, this is what she said:
'It reads my dearest darling, I love you, faithfully
And I hope these few lines find you
When they reach you I hope you're still in love with me'
The more I read this letter, the more it touches my heart
She said, don't forget her, even though we are far apart...
I want you to know, I'm gonna kiss your picture
But I just wish it was you instead
Show full lyrics (16 lines) ▾
#96 The Dells Does Anybody Know I'm Here? 1968 · Single · Make Sure (You Have Someone to Love You) / Does Anybody Know I'm Here · Cadet # 5631 · USA
Annotation
The song "Does Anybody Know I'm Here" (Cadet Records # 5631) by the 50s / 60s soul / R&B group the Dells, from Harvey, Illinois, was about a soldier "in a foreign land" - Vietnam? Germany? The soldier wondered if the people back home had forgotten about him. It represented the homesick soldier. It also suggested that the soldier did not want to be there. The song was written and produced by Bobby Miller, and arranged by Charles Stepney - both working for Chess Records (of which Cadet Records was a sub-label).
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Cadet 5631, matrix 17459, "Mfg. by Chess Producing Corp. Chicago, IL 60616"; "Does Anybody Know I'm Here" (Bobby Miller), 3:15, Chevis Music, BMI; arranged by Charles Stepney, produced by Bobby Miller. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Alone and far away from home
A boy stands in a foreign land
Lonely is he, and in the dark he wipes away a tear
As he thinks to himself, does anybody know I'm here?
He's got a girl, far on a distant shore
And he wonders if she loves him anymore
Cold, so cold is the wind
And in the dark he wipes away a tear
As he thinks to himself, does anybody know I'm here?
Don't worry about me baby, I'll be right here
#97 Masters Of Soul Please Wait For Me (My Darling) 1968 · Single · Please Wait for Me (My Darling) / Love Loves Love · Capitol # 2255 · USA
Annotation
The song "Please Wait for Me (My Darling)" (Ovide Records # 232) by the Houston, Texas soul group the Masters of Houston, led by Fred Kibble, and managed by Skipper Lee Frazier, the founder of Ovide Records which released this single in 1968. The song is credited to "Kibble / Hopkins / Bellard". Frazier leased the song out to Capitol, in the hope of shifting more records ( "Please Wait for Me (My Darling)" (Capitol Records # 2255). By which time, the group changed their name to Masters of Soul due to a contractual dispute with a previous label.

This song provides a representation of the soldier's fear that his loved one back home will abandon him while away fighting. Although the odds of the soldier's survival are "a million to one" , the soldier pleas "darling please hold on" . Billboard mentioned the song on 8 June 1968 in its soul radio review, saying that "the biggest leftfield happening is "Please Wait for Me" by the Masters of Soul".
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Capitol 2255 (45-59637), yellow-and-red swirl label; "Please Wait for Me (My Darling)" (Kibble-Hopkins-Bellard), 2:52, Beechwood Music Corporation/Orellia Publishing BMI; "A Frazier/McKay Production". [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Please wait for me, oh my darling
While I'm away across the sea
And I'll be home soon, my beloved
The odds on my returning they say are a million to one
But I'll be home real soon
Darling please hold on
Please don't lose faith my beloved...
I will love you with all of my heart
#98 Artie Golden I'll Be Home 1968 · Single · I'll Be Home / Bad Habits · Bunky # 7758 · USA
Annotation
In the song "I'll Be Home" (Bunky Records Inc. # 7758), a soldier asked his sweetheart to keep up her spirits, because he has "just got nine month to go" until he returns from the war. The soldier also asked to pass a message on: "tell my son, daddy will be home after a while" . Artie Golden - born Arthur Eugene Camp, possibly came from Louisiana or East Texas because of the recording of his first release on Dodge Records.1 This song appeared on Bill "Bunky" Sheppard's Chicago, Illinois label Bunky.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Bunky Records Inc. 7758 (B-1323), orange patterned label marked with a star and "Bunky's Pick", "Distributed by Scepter Records Inc., 254 West 54 Street, New York, New York"; "I'll Be Home" (Arthur Camp), Broken Soul / Hi-Mi, BMI, 2:30; Artie Golden, "A Bill Sheppard Production", arranged by Frazier and McKay. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Don't let your eyes catch you looking at all the places we used to good
Just think of all the good times we've had together
I'll be home, I'll be home after a while
Don't let heartaches catch you crying
Don't let your tears drown out your smile...
Just got nine more months to go baby
When I get out I'm coming straight home to you
You know I was on the front line last week, I didn't get hit
So maybe if you keep your fingers crossed for me
And say a prayer for me, I guess everything will come out alright
Tell my son, daddy will be home after a while
#99 Abdullah Why Them, Why Me 1968 · Single · Why Them, Why Me / I Comma Zimba Zio (Here I Stand the Mighty One) · Soul # S 35051 · USA
Annotation
The song "Why Them, Why Me" was released by Abdullah on Soul (# S 35051), a subsidiary of Motown Records, for blues and R&B (1964-1978). The b-side "I Comma Zimba Zio" was an strong civil rights, African-American militant song, evoking Africa and the fight for freedom. Born Joseph McLean, he changed his name as a follower of Elijah Muhammad, a self-proclaimed black Muslim nationalist.1 He apparently fell out with Motown's Ralph Seltzer in a racial confrontation, hence only one single on Motown.2 It is fairly difficult to transcribe, but clearly it is narrated from the perspective of a soldier on "the shores of Vietnam" , who was "fighting and dying" . He was looking out at sea for a ship, probably to take him home.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Soul S-35051, © 1968 Jobete, matrix C-Z1-K-M5-480M07; "Why Them, Why Me" (Abdullah), 3:30; produced by H. Cosby, F. Wilson; "A Trademark of Motown Record Corp. © 1968". [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
The evening time he's arising...
Oh tell me why them, mama why me
I'm fighting and dying right here, help...
I came to fight and die way over there
Why them, oh mama why me....
There's a ship a-coming, and she's raging in the sea
From the shores of Vietnam, to my open dream
Oh tell me, why them, oh mama why me
I'm fighting and dying right here, help...
And the ship she is a-coming
And your whole world turns to see
And you stand on the shores
And is she coming for you or me
And the long-time silent voice inside with finally fly
Show full lyrics (15 lines) ▾
#100 Lowell Fulsom The Letter 1968 · Single · The Letter / Let's Go Get Stoned · Kent # K 45x486 · USA
Credited on the record as Lowell Fuson.
Annotation
Lowell Fulson, blues guitarist, often associated with Electric Blues on the West Coast, was born on 31 March 1921 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA. He died on 6 March 1999 in Long Beach, California, USA. The song "The Letter" (Kent # K 45x486) is narrated from a soldier's perspective, writing to his sweetheart, "all I need is your best wishes" . He reveals in the final line, "please try not to forget me, I'm over here in Vietnam" .
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Pink Kent "Hi-Fi" label, K 45x486 (K 486-1), marked "Plug Side" and "Promotional Copy – Not For Sale"; "The Letter" (Fulsom), BMI, Modern Music Pub. Co., time 2:23; produced and arranged by Maxwell Davis. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I hear someone calling me, it seem so far away
It sounds like my baby, need me home to stay
Now what did you say, what did you say
If need me home, just give me a few more days
I know I'm a long way from you, somewhere in this distant land
But all I need is your best wishes and I hope you'll understand...
Try not to forget me, just keep me on your mind
And go to a church on a Sunday, and pray for me some time...
I guess I'll close this letter, hoping you'll understand
Please try not to forget me, I'm over here in Vietnam
Also in: ▤ Blues songs
#101 Johnny Selph Soldiers' Christmas 1968 · Single · Soldiers' Christmas / All I Want for Christmas Is My Baby · Bion # 4 · USA
Annotation
Country singer Johnny Selph's 1968 song "Soldiers' Christmas" (Bion # 4), took the perspective of a soldier away at war, writing to his mother that he will not be home for Christmas: "I'm a fighting man...there is a job here for me" . It did not take a pro or anti line, so a plight of the soldier song.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Bion Record No. 4, Side 2, blue-and-silver label with heart border; "Soldiers' Christmas" (Johnny Selph), 1:50, Claus Music, BMI; produced by Bob Angel. "Bion Record Co., P.O. Box 15428, Orlando, Fla. 32808." [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Dear mum, I won't be home for Christmas
Please give broth and sis from me a hug and kiss
And tell them I'll miss them this Christmas
I hope they'll understand that I'm a fighting man
It sure would be grand to be home this Christmas
There is job here for me but some day there won't be
And then I'll see you all for Christmas
Somebody has to be here...
Maybe next year I'll be home for Christmas...
From the boys over here Merry Christmas and a happy new year
Genre: ♪ Country
#102 Wanda Jackson Little Boy Soldier 1968 · Single · Little Boy Soldier / I Talk a Pretty Story · Capitol # 2245 · USA
Notes
Little Boy Soldier (Jackson, Wanda)

Country. From Oklahoma, USA.
Impact of war at home.
Soldier's wife and son wait at station for the soldier's return.
But soldier comes back in a box draped in the flag.
So KIA.
#103 Neil Ray The Medic 1968 · Single · Big Fanny / The Medic · Plantation # 2 · USA
Annotation
The song "The Medic" (Plantation Records # 2) by Neil Ray.

singer/songwriter. About a soldier on leave (R&R) in Saigon. Tells of his friend, an army medic, killed in action in Haiphong. Impact of war: soldier's perspective.

Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Plantation Records #2 (711-291), green and white label; "The Medic" (Neil Ray), 2:57, Shelby Singleton Music, BMI, and Sound Lab of Jax, BMI; "A Division of Shelby Singleton Productions Inc., Nashville, Tenn.". [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
A young GI soldier on leave in Saigon
Was stopped by ? who said pardon young man
There's mud on your cap and blood on your sleeve
I think that I'll cancel your seven-day leave
The soldier said ? now please don't treat me wrong
For I've just returned from a place called Haiphong
Where the hardships are many and the comfort are few
And brave men are dying for me and for you
I've come to Saigon just to spend a few days
I don't have much money cause I don't draw much pay
I won't bother your girls or drink up your wine
Just write a few letters to some friends of mine
Last week my best buddy was shot through the chest
As I held him he told me with his last dying breath
Please write to my mother and write to my girl
And tell them I love them as I left this world
He left those two in peace with tears in their eyes
He stayed there three days and went back to his guise
Cause he was a medic and his future was made
The cry of the wounded would need his first aid
Show full lyrics (21 lines) ▾
#104 Randy Boone It's So Hard to Tell Mama Goodbye 1968 · Single · It's So Hard to Tell Mama Goodbye / Tennessee Stud · Gregar # GG-00105 · USA
Notes
It's So Hard to Tell Mama Goodbye (Boone, Randy)

Country, soldier's perspective
Born in West Virginia, daddy worked hard, very poor, then he died
Letter from Uncle Sam (drafted) - had to leave mama alone
In an army hospital - will I die?
Some say war is wrong, some say right, but who is the Vietcong?
Notes
Label: GG-00105 / ZSP 119615, 3:36; publisher Borscht Pub. Co. (BMI); a Gregar Record Production, produced by Don Law Productions, distributed through Epic Records; Randy Boone billed as "Co-Star of the C.B.S. Television Series 'Cimmaron Strip'". [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
Also in: ▤ Draft Songs
#105 Bob Stoneberger A Soldier's Last Request 1968 · Single · A Soldier's Last Request / No Reason · Bonnie # 45-1078 · USA
Notes
- Country, soldier's & home front perspective
- Buddy killed in action (K.I.A.) - go see my wife

- Bonnie Records 45-1078 (23271), yellow label; "A Soldier's Last Request", Bonnie Music, BMI; Bob Stoneberger; the label reads "Hit Songs By Bob Stoneberger". [From the record sleeve and labels]
Genre: ♪ Country
#106 Danny Dale and The Travelaires If I Should Not Return 1968 · Single · If I Should Not Return / One Moment in Your Arms · Graco # 45-503 · USA
Notes
- country, soldier's perspective
- if I don't return from Vietnam, my heart still belongs to you

- Graco Records 45-503, Zebulon, Ky. 41501, red label, date-stamped "Sep 3 1968"; "If I Should Not Return" (Lysle Tomerlin), BMI, 2:45; Danny Dale and The Travelaires; producer Harry Chappell. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Genre: ♪ Country
#107 We Believe Private Scotty Grant 1968 · Single · Private Scotty Grant / Breathalyser · Dunhill # D-4115 · USA
Notes
Psychedelic folk, combat, soldier's perspective, patriotic
Fighting for country, for what is right
Hero fought on.
President gave him a Silver Star
Killed in action (K.I.A.)
Notes
Also issued as Bell 716 (1968, promo) with the same coupling. Private Scotty Grant was also released in the UK by Bill Martin on Page One POF 067 (1968). [From Discogs]

Dunhill D-4115 (45-01162), promotional copy, not for sale, 3:23; (B. Martin - P. Coulter); Al Gallico Music Corp. (BMI); a Martin-Coulter Production for Page One Records; subsidiary of ABC Records, New York. [From the record label]
#108 Richard Patterson and the Disciples Quartet I Found God in Viet Nam 1968 · Single · I Found God in Viet Nam / When I Walk on the Streets of Gold · Viet Nam # 5256/5257 · USA
Notes
Country gospel, soldier's perspective, religion Soldier wounded, surrounded by men - Tell mom I found Jesus in Vietnam [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
#109 Wannaby Herd Jungle War Blues 1968 · Single · Everybody's on Strike / Jungle War Blues · Cobblestone # CB 726 · USA
Notes
Jungle War Blues (Wannaby Herd) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
#110 Barbara Ann Mefford Battlefield Prayer 1968 · Single · How Much Farther Can We Go / Battlefield Prayer · Rimrock # RS 277 · USA
Credited on the record as Barbara Ann.
Annotation

Country gospel from Rimrock, Concord, Arkansas. Barbara Ann Mefford sets to music a soldier's prayer, sold on the picture sleeve as a "Heart Touching Story found on a Dead soldier - After A Battle": "This soldier was converted on the battlefield. Listen while he talks to God!" B-side of "How Much Farther Can We Go", whose sleeve names "A war in Viet Nam!"

Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Published by Oleta; pressed by Rimrock Mfg. Co. Issued with picture sleeve. [From Discogs]

Rimrock Records RS 277 B, 2:20; "Battlefield Prayer" (B. Ann); Oleta, BMI; (SP 1010); Rimrock Records .... Concord, Arkansas. [From the record label]

Picture sleeve, one side: "Barbara Ann sings How Much Farther Can We Go! Rearrangement of a Duane Allen Composition. Fitting for this Day in which we live. Men claiming God is Dead! L S D! & Hippies! & A war in Viet Nam! Satan's Hordes Working Overtime". Other side: "Battlefield Prayer. Heart Touching Story found on a Dead soldier - After A Battle. This soldier was converted on the battlefield. Listen while he talks to God! Set to music & sung by Barbara Ann Mefford". [From the picture sleeve]
#111 The Soul Patrol Saigon Strut (Instrumental) 1968 · Single · Saigon Strut · Shamley # S 44017 · USA
Credited on the record as The Soul Patrol featuring Cheap Charlie.
Annotation
A funk track, "Saigon Strut" (Shamley # S 44017), by the obscure Soul Patrol, focused on American G.I.s visiting clubs and prostitutes on the famous Tu Do street in Saigon, South Vietnam - Tu Do translated as "Liberty", called that between 1955 and 1975. It was formerly known as Catinat street (pre-1955), and was re-named Dông Khoï (General Insurrection) after the fall of Saigon.1 The narrator told the listener that he was "drifting down to Tu Do Street, where all the girl are just so sweet" . They apparently cost "200 xu" (probably somewhere between $3-5).2 The soldier then referenced a series of clubs: CC Club, Mango Club, Paradise Club, and Hollywood Club. Then the narrator spotted an army superior: "what's that general doing?...he's doing the Saigon strut" . Shamley, a small Hollywood, Californian based label, a sub-label of Uni Records, released the record. The B-side song was an instrumental version.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Shamley S 44017, issued with an Instrumental side (.6033) and a Vocal side (.6032), each "Saigon Strut" (Quesada–Amador–Mariscal), 2:48, Highwood Music Corp./Walrus Music, BMI; The Soul Patrol featuring Cheap Charlie; arranged by Gil Morris; produced by Norman Gregg H. Ratner in association with Walrus Productions; "Universal City Records, a Division of MCA Inc., 8255 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, Calif. 90046 U.S.A." Light blue label. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
We're doing are thing, we call it the Saigon strut
While drifting down to Tu Do Street
Where all the girls are just so sweet
Well 200 xu, is what she want...
The CC Club, their doing there thing
The Mango Club, their doing there thing
The Paradise Club, their doing there thing
The Hollywood Club, their doing there thing
Oh I'm out of beat, can't find no more Saigon...
Say man, what's that general doing?
He's playing it cool, he's doing the Saigon strut
We're doing the funky, funky Saigon
#112 The Soul Patrol Saigon Strut (Vocal) 1968 · Single · Saigon Strut · Shamley # S 44017 · USA
Credited on the record as The Soul Patrol featuring Cheap Charlie.
Annotation: see “Saigon Strut (Instrumental)” above (same release).

1969

The front page of The Plain Dealer (Cleveland, Ohio), the first paper to publish the graphic photograph of dead villagers at Mỹ Lai in a mass grave, 20 November 1969 - taken by Ronald Haeberle, a U.S. Army sergeant. Time, Life, and Newsweek also ran stories that day, bringing world attention to the massacre
Key EventsElected in November 1968 with a mandate to end the war, soon after his inauguration in January Nixon implemented a strategy of "Vietnamisation" - the gradual withdrawal of American forces and the strengthening of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam. This was part of the Nixon / "Guam" Doctrine, whereby the government would move away from interventionist policies - by December 1969, US troops levels in Vietnam fell by 115,000. Meanwhile, Nixon extended the war, by bombing Cambodia. This, plus news of the My Lai massacre, contributed towards an increase in opposition to the war.
  • 25 January: Peace talks in Paris begin
  • 17 March: Operation Menu - bombing of Cambodia
  • 10-20 May: Battle at Hamburger Hill
  • 14 May: Nixon announces Vietnamisation plan
  • 8 July: The first US troop withdrawals, starting with 800 men
  • 2 September: Ho Chi Minh dies
  • 5 September: Lt. Calley charged with murder over My Lai Massacre
  • 15 October: Moratorium to End the War in Vietnam

1969

#113 Don Meehan Sir, My Men Refuse To Go 1969 · Single · Sir, My Men Refuse to Go / That's the Reason Why · Date # 1654 · USA
Annotation
The song "Sir, My Men Refuse to Go" (Date # 1654) by Don Meehan, a spoken word track about a US military unit, the A Company, refusing to fight because of exhaustion and due to some of the troops only having a few weeks left in Vietnam, and thus not wanting to risk their lives. Meehan co-wrote and produced the song with Wally Gold. Date based in New York.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Date 2-1654 (JZSP 152027), 45 RPM, white "Radio Station Copy" label with green print and blue "A"; "Sir, My Men Refuse to Go" (D. Meehan – W. Gold), 3:07, publisher Lem Music (ASCAP); arranged by Don Meehan, produced by Don Meehan & Wally Gold. Issued in a green Date company sleeve: "Manufactured by Date Records/CBS, Inc./51 W. 52 Street, New York, N.Y." [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
'I'm sorry sir, my men refuse to go'
'What's that again Lieutenant?'
The Colonel yelled over the field telephone connecting battalion headquarters with A Company
The battle weary men of A Company were under orders to move one more time down the mountain under heavy fire...
For almost a week they obeyed their orders and tried to move down the mountain...
Only to be slaughtered one by one...
By this time those left in A Company were in a state of total exhaustion...
'Do those men realise the consequences of disobeying an order'?, the Colonel said
It's no use...some of them only have a few weeks left in Vietnam and they want to get out in one piece
#114 Kurrt Watkins and Soul Sister 7 I Ain't Buying No Saigon Tea 1969 · Single · I Ain't Buyin No Saigon Tea / Theme for Billy
Annotation
Unknown biographical details about this artists. The record was released in Thailand, copy-righted 23 July 1969 - Kuurt Watkins may have been an active service G.I., or recent veteran, and if so, likely serving in the Vietnam War due to the theme found in the lyrics of the song, "I Ain't Buying No Saigon Tea" , about prostitution in Saigon, South Vietnam. It's also possible that he was a US artist, who played for US soldiers in Bangkok, while not necessarily serving in military himself. As mentioned, the song looked at Saigon nightlife, with US G.I.s visiting bars, and possibly engaging prostitutes: "well I took a trip to Saigon... tried to kiss a girl, she yelled 'GI, please be nice'".
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
Rum here, pretty baby, sit down on your daddy's knee
Yes I'll give you all my money
Buy you hairspray baby
But ain't buying no Saigon tea
When I first arrived in Vietnam they put me in Ch Chi
And all I heard from dawn to dusk was 'buy me Saigon tea'
Well I took a trip to Saigon and bought some shrimps and rice
Tried to kiss a girl, she yelled 'GI, please be nice'
Well the girls they say we're butterfly and call us boo-koo sao
And if you try to hug a girl she call you dinky dao
I was sitting down in Bung Tao feeling sad and blue
Tried to touch a girl one night
She yelled 'GI what you do'
Also in: ▤ Blues songs
#115 Rudy Ludaway Trying to Make It Home 1969 · Single · What's Wrong Baby / Trying to Make It Home · Galico # G-45-102 · USA
Annotation
The song "Trying to Make It Home" (Galico # G-45-102) by Rudy Ludaway - originally released on two Georgian based labels - Galico and Awake Records (# 45-300). It later appeared on the national label United Artists (# UA 50590). Ludaway wrote and produced the track, although the record also said "Bobby Smith Productions". The song is narrated from a soldier in the war, missing his sweetheart back home: "I miss you baby...I can't come home now although I wanna" . The soldier said that he will "fight a good fight" in order to make it home. The soldier did not know or care "whose wrong, right" - he was just doing his service.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
I've been away from you many days
Never in my life have I felt so alone
I miss you baby, my lovably baby
Don't you know I'm trying to make it home
I received your letter just yesterday
It gave me strength to carry on
For your touch I'm yearning
Sometimes I'm tossing and turning /Just trying to make it home...
I can't come home now although I wanna...
Very soon I'll make things right
If I continue to fight a good fight
I don't know whose wrong, right...
Don't you know I'm just trying to get home
#116 Manuel B. Holcolm I Stayed Away Too Long 1969 · Single · I Stayed Away Too Long / Kick Out-Ins · Diamond Jim # DJ-900 · USA
Credited on the record as Manuel B. Holcolm and His Band.
Annotation
The funky song "I stayed Away Too Long" (Diamond Jim Recording # 900) came out of Detroit, Michigan, in 1969. Sung by Manuel Holcolm, it was written by G. Current and Jim Riley, known in Detroit soul circles as Diamond Jim - he founded the labels Diamond Jim, Big D, and Riley's Recording Co.. So in this song a soldier is "laying in a foxhole...in Vietnam" , reading a letter from his girl while "covered all in mud" . The soldier soon discovers that "something was wrong" and that she has left him for someone else. But the soldier cries that "I couldn't help myself, I stayed away too long" . This is another song representing both the fear and the reality that some soldiers found their personal relationships, from back home, broken off because of the conflict.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Diamond Jim Records DJ-900, matrix DJ-17755-PL, vocal; "I Stayed Away Too Long" (Diamond Jim–G. Current), pub. Steve-Dot-Syderia-Cotillion, BMI, time 2:30; Manuel B. Holcolm and His Band, produced by Diamond Jim and G. Current. "Dist. by Cotillion, Div. of Atlantic Recording Corp., 1841 B'way, N.Y., N.Y." [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I got in at three this morning, I called you on the phone
I got a funny feeling, baby, when they said you weren't at home...
Your mother said listen son, my daughters not coming in
Oh I stayed away too long, yes I did, stayed away too long
Listen, when I got your last letter I knew something was wrong
But I was laying in a foxhole baby in Vietnam
With the lights on dim, I couldn't even read
But I was covered all in mud from my head to my feet
I stayed away too, too long, yes I did, stayed away too long
Girl you said that you would love me
And you told me that you would wait
Do you remember what you said baby
Because you've taken you love away
I couldn't help myself, I stayed away too long...
Thinking you would be true...saving all my love for you
Show full lyrics (16 lines) ▾
#117 Shuberd Mt'n Boys Please Say Yes 1969 · Single · Please Say Yes / What's It to You · Shuberd # 45-1004 · USA
Notes
- bluegrass, soldier's perspective
- tomorrow may never come, please say yes!
- I fight to end the war

- - bluegrass, soldier's perspective - tomorrow may never come, please say yes! - I fight to end the war [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
#118 Ed Raney Brother, Oh Dear Brother 1969 · Album · Songs of the Sky Soldier · Storm # LSP 2702 · USA
Notes
military / in country
Notes
Storm Records LSP 2702, stereo; produced by Jjeld Music, 2702 E. Wellesley, Spokane, Wash.; public performance clearance BMI; manufactured by Rite Record Productions, Inc. The front cover is a colour portrait of a helmeted paratrooper in camouflage with the 173d Airborne shoulder patch, and credits "Ballad of the 173d Airborne Brigade" written by SSG James R. Raney and "Ol' Lead Bottom" written by PFC William R. Raney USMC, "Sung by Ed Raney"; the back shows a parachutist under an open canopy.

The sleeve notes say the songs were written in part by Staff Sergeant James R. Raney, pictured on the cover, with his older brother Ed (honourably discharged from the U.S. Air Force) and younger brother Bill (serving in the U.S. Marine Corps) also contributing, and that they give "an honest look at our fighting men in Vietnam". They describe "The Jump" as a factual narration of the first combat jump of the Vietnam conflict, "Prayer for Dust Off" as a thank-you to the helicopter crews, and "Trooper's Green" as an imaginary place where all 173d troopers go when they die, and close by noting that James R. Raney was on his way back to Vietnam for his third tour, "All three times he volunteered to go."

Side 1: Ballad of the 173d, Prayer for Dust Off, Johnson's Gone to Hell, The Trooper's Green, Bugles at Twilight, Great Jumpmaster in the Sky;
Side 2: The Jump, The Immortal Sgt. Hanks, Corporal Barnes, Ol' Lead Bottom, Brother, Oh Dear Brother. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#119 Jim Sears Last Night I Heard a Baby Cry 1969 · Single · Last Night I Heard a Baby Cry / Last Train Out of Memphis · Doré # 835 · USA
Notes
Last Night I Heard a Baby Cry (Sears, Jim)

Pop rock / teen pop.
Plight of soldier and family.
About death of soldier

Doré # 835 - Hollywood, California.
Notes
Doré 835 (45-LJB-589), light-blue feather-logo label marked "Promotional Copy" and "Not For Sale"; "Last Night I Heard a Baby Cry" (Laurie Aho), Meadowlark Music Inc.-Mark Jay Pub. (ASCAP), time 2:25; arranged by Johnny Greek. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Genre: ♪ Teen Pop
#120 D.C. Mullins My Soldier Mind 1969 · Single · My Soldier Mind / Me and Old Blue · DCR # 1 · USA
Credited on the record as D. C. Mullins (The Old Prophet).
Notes
My Soldier Mind (Mullins, D.C.)

Contemporary folk, soldier's perspective. Creekville, Kentucky, USA.
I've been sent far away as a green beret, on the front line.
Pray for peace. Hope the wives will be true
Notes
D.C. Recording Co., Creekville, Ky., A.C. 606-598-3598; DCR #1, 45 RPM (23839); "My Soldier Mind" (D. C. Mullins), The Old Prophet Pub. Co., ASCAP; arranged by Cliff Parman; credited to D. C. Mullins (The Old Prophet). Green label with pipe logo. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#121 Mizax and the Flizaps On the Other Side 1969 · Single · On the Other Side / Test Me · ABC # 11222 · USA
Notes
ABC Records, 45 RPM, white label marked "Promotion Copy"; "On the Other Side" (M. Kidd, R. Bateman), Pamco Music/Exus Trek - BMI; produced by Bob Bateman, "A Robert Bateman Production". "A product of ABC Records Inc., New York, N.Y. 10019, Made in USA." [From the record sleeve and labels]
#122 Tony Dean The Silver Star 1969 · Single · The Silver Star / I Wear the Shoes of a Man · Jubilee # 5620 · USA
Notes
The Silver Star
I Wear the Shoes of a Man (Dean, Tony)

Child narration, both sides. Father died in Vietnam. KIA.
Notes
Jubilee Record No. 45-5620, 45 R.P.M., white label marked "Advance Release – Disc-Jockey Record – Not for Sale"; vocal with inst. accomp., Tash Music/Jillbern Music (BMI); produced by Herb Bernstein & Tash Howard, arranged by Herb Bernstein. "The Silver Star" (T. Howard–B. Kiria), side JB-12776, time 2:39, marked "*Plug Side"; "I Wear the Shoes of a Man" (T. Howard–H. Bernstein), side JB-12777, time 1:58. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#123 The Odyssey Rock Band I'll Be Coming Home 1969 · Single · I'll Be Coming Home / Leave Me Alone I Don't Want to Hear It · Steady # S-003 · USA
Notes
Folk rock, soldier's perspective
Drafted at 18, to fight in a far off land
You cried, I felt lost when I left
But I'll be coming home soon
Notes
Steady Records S-003; producers Perry Alexander and Tom Costello; published by Jamerica. Also issued in Australia (BK-3342).

Promotion copy, not for sale; S-003 (ST-006); written by Johns–Alexander; Pub. Jamerica (BMI); time 3:20; "An Arttref Production"; prod. by Perry Alexander & Tom Costello. [From the record label]
Also in: ▤ Draft Songs
#124 Ray and The Country Ramblers How Much Can a Mom & Dad Take 1969 · Single · How Much Can a Mom & Dad Take / I'll Be on That Bird (A Commin' Home) · Vet-Co # VCR 101 · USA
Notes
- Country, home front, soldier's perspective, K.I.A.
- A-side: Letter to parents - fighting day and night. Buddy K.I.A.
- B-side: Got days lefts then I'll be coming home
- Last words he wrote, K.I.A.
- We have one more son over there

- Vet-Co Records VCR 101-A, yellow label; "How Much Can a Mom & Dad Take" (R. Dalrymple), 3:10. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Genre: ♪ Country
#125 Mark Wayne Sampey Dear Mom (A Letter From Viet Nam) 1969 · Single · Cajun Ball / Dear Mom (A Letter From Viet Nam) · Spera # 140 · USA
Notes
Dear Mom (A Letter From Viet Nam) (Sampey, Mark Wayne)

Country / cajun artist. Gretna, Louisiana
Soldier's perspective, patriotic, anti-protest
Writing to you mum from Vietnam
Captain has given order - wish this war would end
Some folks at home don't understand
We here know what we're fighting for
Pray the war won't be longf
Notes
Pressed by Houston Records (LH-5896/5897). The song was also recorded by Vin Bruce on Swallow 45-10169. [From Discogs]

Spera Records 140 (LH-5897), 2:34; (Anselmi-Bruce-Martin); Flat Town Pub., BMI; a Marion Marcotte Production; 524 4th St., Gretna, La. [From the record label]
#126 Doug Lyons Soldiers Dream 1969 · Single · I Don't Drink Because I Like It / Soldiers Dream · Jewel [Cincinnati] # 798 · USA
Notes
Soldiers Dream (Lyons, Doug)

Country, soldier's perspective, patriotic, religion
Take care of mum while I'm in Vietnam
You're too young to understand why I have to go away
Must go for Uncle Sam and the country that I love
Pray to end this cruel war so no more will die
I sit alone thinking of you - I come home in memories
Notes
Released December 1969. Pressed by QCA Custom Pressing (91204). [From Discogs]

Jewel Record No. 798 (91204B), 2:52; (Doug Lyons, Jim Vowell); Rusty York Music, BMI; Box 31078, Cincinnati, Ohio 45231. [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
#127 Garrett Duet Lord Watch Over My Daddy 1969 · Single · God's Holy City / Lord Watch Over My Daddy · Dale Hollow # 45-1001 · USA
Notes
Lord Watch Over My Daddy (Duet, Garrett) Bluegrass, home front perspective, combat, religion. Little girl said in prayer - please god watch over my daddy until this cruel war is over Combat - shells bursting around him [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
#128 Buck Biggs Going Back to Texas 1969 · Single · Going Back to Texas / One by One · Western # 1002 · USA
Notes
Soldier returning from Vietnam to Texas [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#129 Dick Wannebo Goodbye Saigon 1969 · Single · Goodbye Saigon / If My Heart Had Windows · Copper State # CSR-2023 · USA
Credited on the record as Dick Wannebo and the Country Caravan.
Notes
Country, soldier's perspective Leaving Vietnam - will take 20 seconds to forget. Asian blues but looking for home. Miss you Saigon like the plague. Nice to visit but not to live [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#130 Jim Alley Rachel 1969 · Single · Rachel / Jill · Columbia # 4-44860 · USA
Notes
Country, soldier's perspective, disabled Need to get home, war is man made hell, loosing my mind. What will Rachel think when she sees what's left of me [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#131 Tom T. Hall Girls In Saigon City 1969 · Album · I Witness Life · Mercury # SR-61277 · USA
Annotation
Tom T. Hall, born 25 May 1936 in Olive Hill, Kentucky, son of a preacher, is primarily known as a storyteller and songwriter in the country music genre. Between 1957 and 1961 Hall served in the US army, stationed in Germany. He performed songs at local officer clubs and on the Armed Forces Network.12 In 1965 he scored a massive songwriting hit with Johnnie Wright - Hello Vietnam. From 1967 he started to release his own material, including the Vietnam-related track "Girls in Saigon City" (Mercury Records # SR-61277). Narrated from a soldier's perspective, near a place called "Da Nang"... "cross the ocean far away" . The soldier "got a dear-John-letter" . So the soldier goes off to Saigon to visit the Vietnamese girls - presumably a reference to prostitutes. At the end of the song, Hall switches the narrative, giving out advise to those on the domestic front: "stateside girls should take this warning, be faithful" - otherwise the soldier may go visit the girls in Saigon. Thus, this looks at both the soldier's experience and the us domestic perspective.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
There's a place called Da Nang Village cross the ocean far away
In deep concern for one young woman
That's where I abide today
Today, I got a dear-John-letter from that young woman in the USA
When I was called I knew I'd lose her it don't matter anyway
There are girls in Saigon City waiting there with open arms
On my leave I may go see them in this other world called Vietnam
Stateside girls should take this warning be faithful cause you can't tell
On the streets of Saigon City they have many things to sell
There are girls in Saigon City
English
A list of Tom T. Hall Vietnam War compositions:
Johnnie Wright - "Hello Vietnam" - a soldier headed out to war.
Kitty Hawkins - "Goodbye to Vietnam" - a soldier returned to the US.
Dave Dudley - "Then I'll Come Home Again" - a soldier will return home after doing his duty.
Dave Dudley - "What We're Fighting For" - soldier justified the conflict in Vietnam.
Maybelle Carter - "I Told Them What You're Fighting For" - a mother justified son's role in Vietnam.
Tom T. Hall - "Girls in Saigon City" - warned that GIs visited Vietnamese girls in Saigon.
Jimmy Snyder - "Chicago Story" - a soldier goes to Vietnam, while his wife started an affair back home.
George Kent - "Mama Bake a Pie" - a wounded veteran criticised the human cost of the war.
Show full lyrics (22 lines) ▾

1970

Richard Nixon announces the US incursion into Cambodia, an expansion of the war, 30 April 1970. This sparked major demonstrations across the US.
Key EventsOfficial peace talks continued in Paris, and Kissinger opened a secret channel with his North Vietnamese counterpart Le Duc Tho. Meanwhile, Nixon stunned Americans by announcing the US and South Vietnamese incursion into Cambodia, which sparked mass demonstrations in the US and firmly turned public opinion against the war in Vietnam. During the protest at Kent State University, Ohio, four students were shot and killed. The Congress also reacted to the Cambodia incursion, with a series of legislative restrictions on US operations in Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. Captain Medina was charged over the My Lai Massacre, and Lt. William Calley's trial began.
  • 21 February: Kissinger talks with Le Duc Tho begin
  • 30 April: Nixon announces the incursion into Cambodia
  • 1 May: Nixon calls protesters "bums"
  • 4 May: 4 Student killed at Kent State Ohio, by National Guardsmen
  • 24 June: Congress repeals the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution
  • 12 November: Trial of Lt. William Calley began
  • 22 December: Cooper-Church Amendment

1970

#132 Alice Cooper I'm Eighteen 1970 · Single · Eighteen / Body · Warner Bros. # 7449 · USA
Annotation
Alice Cooper, a hard rock musician, born in Detroit, Michigan, USA (4 February 1948), and currently based in Phoenix, Arizona.1 Many people interpreted Cooper's song "Eighteen" (Warner Bros. Records # 7449) as a reference to Vietnam. One could fight at the age of eighteen, but could not vote until they turned twenty-one: "I'm a boy and I'm a man...I gotta get out of this place" . A widely debated issue, the Nixon administration eventually enlarged the franchise for the 1972 presidential election to include those eighteen and over. Released on the US charts in 11 November 1970, it reached # 21 in the Billboard Hot 100 chart in on 24 April 1971.2 Produced by Bob Ezrin and Jack Richardson. Featured on the 1971 album Love It to Death (Straight Records # STS 1065).
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Warner Bros. Records 7449 (N19265RE1)S, olive-green label, made in U.S.A.; "Eighteen" (Alice Cooper, Michael Bruce, Glen Buxton, Dennis Dunaway, Neal Smith), Bizarre Music, BMI, 3:00, intro :27, "An Alive Enterprise Production"; produced by Bob Ezrin and Jack Richardson for Nimbus 9 Productions. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Lines form on my face and hands, lines form from the ups and downs
I'm in the middle without any plans, I'm a boy and I'm a man
I'm eighteen and I don't know what I want
Eighteen I just don't know what I want
Eighteen I gotta get away, I gotta get out of this place
I'll go runnin' in outer space oh yeah
I got a baby's brain and an old man's heart
Took eighteen years to get this far
Don't always know what I'm talkin' about
Feels like I'm livin' in the middle of doubt
'Cause I'm eighteen, I get confused every day
Eighteen I just don't know what to say
Eighteen I gotta get away...
I'm in the middle the middle of life
I'm a boy and I'm a man
I'm eighteen and I like it, yes I like it...love it
Show full lyrics (17 lines) ▾
#133 Bill Cosby Grover Henson Feels Forgotten 1970 · Single · Grover Henson Feels Forgotten / Grover Henson Feels Forgotten (Instrumental) · Uni # 55223 · USA
Annotation
Bill Cosby, born in Philadelphia, 1937, released a series of comedy and spoken-word records in the 1960s and 70s. He later became famous for the 1980s sit-com The Cosby Show. The song "Grover Henson Feels Forgotton" (Uni Records # 55223), about a fictional soldier, represented the forgotten GIs in Vietnam. The soldier never received any letters at mail call, so he sent one to himself.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Uni 55223 (.451), vocal, swirl label; "Grover Henson Feels Forgotten" (C. Wilde), 3:30, Wild Music, ASCAP; arranged by Christian Wilde with Don Hockett; produced by Christian Wilde, "A Wild Production"; Universal City Records, a Division of MCA Inc., 8255 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, Calif. 90046. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
World, I'm writing you this letter and I'm not the kind of guy who likes to complain but this morning, Private Grover Henson really felt forgotten
And you couldn't have picked a worse time to drop that lonely morning rain
There's mail call again this morning and I just disappeared from the end of the line
I guess you'd say I've run out of excuses about those lost letters of mine
Did you know that last year's income tax was the only mail I've gotten
That's right, and they said I still owed a hundred bucks
So, I wrote myself a letter, mmm hmm, are you ready for me
Yes, I did, and I must have read it to just about everyone I signed it, your loving mother and I addressed it to her favorite son
But God knows I've never known her and I've never known her love
The only dad I ever had was my father up above and, world, Grover Henson feels forgotten in this early morning rain
World, if my time should come tomorrow could I ask one thing of you would you send me one little letter
World, if it's not too much to do and could you have it, read to me by a choir, I'd hear it wherever I lie
#134 Mel & Tim Mail Call Time 1970 · Single · Mail Call Time / Forget It I've Got It · Bamboo [Chicago] # BMB 114 · USA
Annotation
Soul song "Mail Call Time" (Bamboo Records # BMB 114) - another song, like "From Vietnam With Love" by Charles E. Scott that represented the military practice in which soldiers assemble to receive mail, with each soldier's name called out to pick up the mail. Performed by the soul duo Mel Hardin & Tim McPherson, cousins, both born in Mississippi, US, and based in Chicago with Bamboo Records. They later moved to Stax Records in 1972 with the single Starting All Over Again. The song started in a first person narration, with a soldier expressing the desire to receive mail. The narrator then made a plea in the third person: "girls, pick up your pen, and drop your man a line" .

Note the reference to the "Jody" theme: "don't let Jody take up all of your time" - suggesting that the soldier's sweetheart may have been involved with another man ("Jody") in his absence. The term "Jody" originated from "Joe the Grinder" (dated c.1939) - a mythical man in blues and jazz tunes who seduced the wives and girlfriends of soldiers, prisoners, and those away from home (for work or whatever). "Grinder" was an old slang word for sex (dated c.1647). It is thought to have been introduced into the army by African-Americans during the Second World War, used in military cadences (marches), such as "ain’t no use in going home, Jody’s got your girl and gone" - shouted out by a military officer, and repeated by the group of marching soldiers in unison. This type of marching later got the nickname of "jodies" or "jody calls".1
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Bamboo BMB 114 A (50887), "Bamboo Records Inc. © 1969", tropical beach and palm-tree picture label marked "Not for Sale"; "Mail Call Time" (Harding, McPherson, Dixon), time 3:15, Cachand/Patcheal (BMI); Mel and Tim, "Produced by: Gene Chandler", "Recorded at: Universal Recording Studios", "Arranged by: Tom-Tom"; "Nationally distributed by Scepter Records Inc. 254 W. 54th St., New York, N.Y.", "Made in U.S.A." [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I'll be so glad when mail call time comes around...
I'm going to sit right down on this cold, wet muddy ground and I'm gonna read, when mail call time comes around
Oh yes I will
Girls, pick up your pen and drop your man a line
Don't let Jody take up all of your time
The only thing that's on your man's mind are the letters he gets from the girl he left behind
And he's gonna wake up in the morning with mail call on his mind
Oh yes he will
He'll be so glad when mail call time comes around
He's gonna sit right down on this cold, wet, muddy ground, and he's gonna read
#135 William Bell Lonely Soldier 1970 · Single · Lonely Soldier / Let Me Ride · Stax # STA-0070 · USA
Annotation
The song "Lonely Soldier" (Stax Records # STA-0070) by William Bell took the letter format, from a soldier writing to his loved one back home. The soldier asked that she "have a little faith" and wait for him. He explained that his "heart is frozen with fear" . The woman who received the letter told the listener that it "touched the bottom of my soul" and must have been written "on a terrible day" . This is the third William Bell single on a war / Vietnam related topic - "Soldier's Goodbye" (1966) and "Marching Off to War" (1966), both released on Stax. And, as already mentioned, the 1969 single "Soldier's Prayer" by Eddie Billups featured on Bell's record label Peachtree.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Stax STA-0070 (SM-00409-PL), yellow label with the finger-snap logo, July 1970; "Lonely Soldier" (Calvin Carter), 3:58, Conrad Publishing Co., BMI; produced by B. T. Jones and William Bell. "Stax Records, 926 East McLemore, Memphis, Tenn. - Div. of Paramount Pictures Corp., a G+W Co." [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Its been so long since I've seen my man
But a letter came today, it touched the bottom of my soul
It must have been on some quite moment
On a terrible day when he had these words to say
Its been so long since I've been home
And I just thought that I would write
I hope these word will comfort you on some dark and lonely night
Don't you know my love is real
Don't you see how I feel, oh, I'm a lonely soldier boy...
Darling just have a little faith, no, you won't regret it my love
If you would only wait...
Sometimes when I sit here my heart is frozen with fear
And I think about the good times we had
#136 Jimmie Ellis Happy To Be (The Man You Like To See) 1970 · Single · Happy to Be (The Man You Like to See) / Looking Through the Eyes of Love · Century City # CCR-511 · USA
Annotation
Jimmie "Preacher" Ellis came from Foreman, Arkansas, and started his career in 1950 singing for the choir of Mount Baker Baptist Church, in Seattle, Washington. In 1955 Ellis entered military service. By the mid-60s, Ellis was in Los Angeles, recoding as a solo act. He released the track "Happy to Be (The Man You Like to See)" (Century City Records # CCR-511), in which the soldier narrator had "been fighting for many long years" . He has returned home to his loved one, and has a very optimistic outlook, pledging to sing a song about "what's right and not what the war has done, with every new sun comes a new day" . It does not specifically mention Vietnam. Produced by Tom Cross, who co-wrote the song with Ellis.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
When you here me singing this song in American, or in old Hong Kong
It makes me happy to be the man you like you see
Every night, before I go to bed I think about what my love has said
She said 'you've been fighting for many long years'
Now you can come home and I come wipe away your tears...
I prayed so hard for my soul to keep
Now I think I'll lay down and go to sleep...
So when the morning dawns I'll sing you a new song
About what's right and not what the war has done
With every new sun comes a new day
#137 Donald Jenkins Fighting for My Baby 1970 · Single · A New World Beautiful / Fighting for My Baby · Thomas # TH 806 · USA
Annotation
Donald Jenkins' song "Fighting for My Baby" , released on Chicago soul label Thomas Records (# TH 806), founded by Eddie Thomas and Dick Simon, was a first-person narration from a soldier, who tells the listener that it is "strange out here in the jungle of Vietnam, I'm scared" . He is mainly thinking about his girlfriend, who he is fighting for. The soldier also thinks that if others knew what was going on in Vietnam, then "there would be no wars" . Written by Donald Jenkins, who also co-produced the song with Thomas Ross.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Thomas TH 806 (TH 806B), white label with a star-chart design; "Fighting for My Baby" (Donald Jenkins), Camad & Bismillah Music, BMI, 3:05; produced by Donald Jenkins and Thomas Ross; "Distributed by Buddah Records, 1650 Broadway, N.Y.C. 10019". Issued in a pink Buddah Records company sleeve. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Fighting for the whole wide world...
Don't my little baby get lonely sometimes
If they knew what I knew there would be no wars
There would only be time for little girls and boys
Strange out here in the jungle of Vietnam, I'm scared and all I want to do is go back home...
Because I'm fighting for my baby, right now
#138 The Wilburn Brothers Little Johnny From Down The Street 1970 · Album · Little Johnny From Down the Street · Decca # DL 75173 · USA
Annotation
The group, which featured the brothers Doyle Wilburn and Teddy Wilburn from Hardy, Arkansas, both served in the US army during the Korean War.2 They also released two anti-war / peace songs: "Vision at the Peace Table" on this album, and the single "The War Keeps Draggin' On" (Decca Records # 32909). Reaching # 37 in the Billboard country charts (on 14 March 1970), the track "Little Johnny From Down the Street" (Decca Records # DL 75173) focused on the plight of a soldier called Johnny.1 The front cover of the album featured a freckled-faced boy - presumably Little Johnny? Larry G. Whitehead composed the song.

It started by recalling the childhood of Johnny, who got up to various misadventures, and eventually fell in love with a girl called Janie. This early section personalised the life of the soldiers sent to fight in Vietnam, focusing on their 'normal' or 'happy' American childhood. But then the protagonist received his draft letter: "orders from his country came" , and most likely the army sent him to Vietnam. At the end of the track, the listener discovered that Johnny "died in a foreign land all alone" , before having the chance to marry Janie. Thus this track mainly dealt with the impact of the war on both the life of the soldier and on those left behind in the US. To a small extent it leaned towards the anti-war side, by portraying the negative impact of the war.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
Who threw a brick through my front glass
Little Johnny from down the street
Who's been diggin' up the courthouse grass
Little Johnny from down the street
Who's been pullin' little Janie's pigtails...
Little Johnny from down the street...
Who taught the other kids how to cuss...
Now Janie thinks Johnny is her whole world
Little Johnny from down the street
Then orders from his country came
He pulled out on the midnight train
Now Janie's cryin' with a different pain
For little Johnny from down the street
Who is it everybody misses, now the neighborhood's quiet...
Who won't be coming home, died in a foreign land all alone
Little Johnny from down the street
Show full lyrics (17 lines) ▾
#139 The Wilburn Brothers Vision at the Peace Table 1970 · Album · Little Johnny From Down the Street · Decca # DL 75173 · USA
Annotation: see “Little Johnny From Down The Street” above (same release).
Lyrics
English
We need him now, we need him now, yes we need Jesus now
Last night this whole world went to sleep with troubles on her mind
More troubles she's known since time began
With the leaders of all nations gathered in one room
The future of the world was in their hands
Now the moment had come for men and nations to decide how an everlasting peace could be born
But hopes of peace soon ended
When one man took the floor and started speaking words of fire and scorn
The smaller nations pleaded that their people might be safe from the awful fate of war that filled the air
Then a handful of leaders who put their faith in god bowed their heads and began to pray...
Why some of you have prayed for peace, others speak of war
The treaties of this world will never stand...we need him now...Jesus
Who threw a brick through my front glass
Little Johnny from down the street
Who's been diggin' up the courthouse grass
Little Johnny from down the street
Who's been pullin' little Janie's pigtails...
Little Johnny from down the street...
Who taught the other kids how to cuss...
Now Janie thinks Johnny is her whole world
Little Johnny from down the street
Then orders from his country came
He pulled out on the midnight train
Now Janie's cryin' with a different pain
For little Johnny from down the street /Who is it everybody misses, now the neighborhood's quiet...
Who won't be coming home, died in a foreign land all alone
Little Johnny from down the street
Show full lyrics (28 lines) ▾
Theme: Anti-War
#140 Matt McKinney Ballad of My Lai 1970 · Single · Ballad of My Lai / Hungry Road · Danrite # DR-115 · USA
Annotation
Released in 1970, the country song "Ballad of My Lai" (Danrite Records # DR-115), released on a Dallas, Texas based label. Composed by Thurman McKinney and Donald Peck, produced by Chas Wright. The narrator blamed the massacre of women and children on the politicians and military, not on Calley, because they had "placed the gun in his hand" . This song also noted that Vietnam was a "war we could never win" - perhaps indicating that the war had been a mistake, a view in line with public opinion polls.1 It does not really fit into either the "anti-war" or "patriotic" song category. It largely dealt with how the war affected soldiers and civilians.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Danrite Records DR-115 (SON 93751); "Ballad of My Lai" (Thurman McKinney – Donald Peck), time 3:30, "Mod Country"; Danrite Music BMI; producer Chas. Wright; "Natl. Dist. F.E.I. Sales – P.O. Box 701, Nashville, Tenn. 37202". Turquoise label. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
There once was an army Lieutenant, handsome dashing, and gay...
One day at the start of a battle near a village in South Vietnam, people were running and hiding...
Women and children alike...
In a ditch they were found, their blood stained the ground...
Now who will stand in the judgement...
We sent him into the battle
A war we could never win
We placed the gun in his hand and sent him to that foreign land...
Now the judgement is in the higher hands
Genre: ♪ Country
#141 Zabka And They Were Five 1970 · Single · And They Were Five / Searching Wind · Laurie # 3529 · USA
Annotation
Notes
And They Were Five (Zabka) (Laurie Records # 3529)

Plight of the soldier. Killed in action (K.I.A.) by a land mine.
Vocal group, traditional pop. Composed by Stan Zabka - he served in the army during WW2 and the Korean War. Runs the publishing company Big Island Music Inc.1 Arranged by Jim Tyler.
Based on the true story of five brothers killed in Vietnam, originally from New Hampshire, USA. He made an 8 minute promotional film to go with the song.2345

And they were five, and the five came home, home to the
Anxious hearts waiting...home to rest, to live no more"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Laurie Records Inc., New York, record no. LR 3529, "Advance Release" label with pink-and-black panels, matrix X4KM-1587; "And They Were Five" (Stan Zabka), S & J Music Pub. Corp., ASCAP, time 3:34; produced by Plano for Big Island Prod., arranged by Jim Tyler. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
They first touched down in a jungle spot not far from Company A
Having gotten the nod to join up with the squad who lost a few
Men that day, it was raining that night, charlie moved to strike
Under cover of mud and rain, when the smoke had cleared
Only five survived, replacement were needed again, and again
The faces of war were everywhere, like the scene down at
Company 3, men with their stares, the barbed wire fence
Hungry men is what the GIs see, and watched what was thrown
Away, so much was thrown away, another face on a night patrol
A child hiding in the grass...and where was his mother
He had no mother, maybe the woman laid down in the cave nearby
Would take him in, they found her feeding a babe she saved
When the VC came for her kin, the poor, she took him in, why not
But now its home for the five her served their time with Company A
Young and strong and full of life, it's back to the USA, they loaded up
In an hour and a half, drove in heavy rain, when a land mine exploded
And ended their life before they could get to their plane
And they were five, and the five came home, home to the
Anxious hearts waiting...home to rest, to live no more
Show full lyrics (20 lines) ▾
#142 Jay Pollard Letter to Mamma 1970 · Single · Mail Call / Letter to Mamma · St. George International # 7-202,643 · USA
#143 Jay Pollard Mail Call 1970 · Single · Mail Call / Letter to Mamma · St. George International # 7-202,642 · USA
Notes
- Garage rock, soldier's perspective from Vietnam, both sides.
- Letter to mother, mail call, draft card burning, anti-protest, demonstrations.
#144 Garrett Scott (Mama) Is Uncle Clayton Jackson Sleeping Here Again Tonight? 1970 · Single · (Mama) Is Uncle Clayton Jackson Sleeping Here Again Tonight? (Mono) / (Stereo) · Vanguard # VRS-35119 · USA
Notes
Soul.
Dad fought in Korea, uncle sleeping at home.
Father K.I.A., received a medal.
Now I'm at war in Vietnam, missing my son and wife.
Notes
Vanguard VRS-35119 promo, 'Demonstration Copy - Not For Sale', mono/stereo sides. Arranged and conducted by Herb Bernstein; engineer Ed Friedner; producers Doug McClure and Ted Cooper. Song also issued as B-side of 'To Love' (Goffin-King), Vanguard VRS-35123 (no year on Discogs; A side green label, B side red label). Australian issue Astor A 7186 (1970). Vanguard VRS-35119 (ZTSP 222644) mono / VSD-35119 (ZTS 222643) stereo promo, "Demonstration Copy – Not For Sale"; Pocket Full of Tunes/Jillbern Music BMI, time 3:30; mono copy date-stamped 2 Nov 1970. [From the record labels]
#145 H. I. Dailey Merry Christmas From Vietnam 1970 · Single · Merry Christmas From Vietnam / The Paul Brown Get a Way · Dailey # A-1005 · USA
Notes
Christmas, country
Notes
Dailey Records A-1005; music by the Nokes Bros.; mastered at Tracy-Val Corporation, pressed by Precision Record Pressing (PRP 24681).

Label: Dailey Records, Woodbury, Tenn.; 45 RPM, (PRP 24681), A-1005, time 3:00; "Music by Nokes Bros." [From the record label]
#146 Ronnie Adkins A Soldier's Letter 1970 · Single · A Soldier's Letter / John Kennedy President · Jon-Ark # 3170 · USA
Notes
- Country, soldier's perspective, peace
- I miss you darling, heart of bleeding
- All my bodies are dying
- God please end this war
- From a soldier in Vietnam, please stay true

- Published by Poinsettia Pub. Co., Inc. Pressed by Rimrock Mfg. Co. [From Discogs]

Jon-Ark Records 3170, 2:46; (Larry Deems); Poinsettia Pub. Co., Inc., BMI; 413 E Monroe, Jonesboro, Ark. Blue label, silver print. [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
#147 Red Sovine The Unfinished Letter 1970 · Single · Starday # 45-918 · USA
Notes
Unfinished Letter, The (Sovine, Red)

Country, soldier's perspective, patriotic, anti-protest. Religion
Letter: "Dear Sir, I regret to inform you"...K.I.A. letter
Peace talks have started - too late for my son
But young people don't care - demonstrations, burning, disrespect to the flag and colleges
But you boys over there are keeping them free
Put my son to rest next to his mother Jody. Glad she didn't live to see you die
Notes
Produced by Roger Sovine. Published by Arnel, North State Music and Jack & Jill Music. Matrix S-9231 / S-9203. [From Discogs]
Genre: ♪ Country

1971

The New York Times publishes the Pentagon Papers, on Sunday, 13 June 1971
Key EventsUS and South Vietnamese forces invade Laos, to cut off the Ho Chi Minh trail, while Nixon continued to withdraw US troops from Vietnam, which sink to 156,800 by the end of December. The publication of the Pentagon Papers, a top-secret study on the history of US involvement in Vietnam, commissioned by the Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara in 1967, and leaked to the New York Times and other newspapers by Pentagon official Daniel Ellsberg in June 1971, increased the credibility gap and support for withdrawal from Vietnam.
  • 30 January: Operation Lam Son - Laos incursion
  • 29 March: Lt. Calley found guilty of My Lai murders
  • 29 April: US death toll in Vietnam reaches 45,000
  • May: Gallup reports 68% support for withdrawal from Vietnam
  • 13 June: New York Times publishes Pentagon Papers
  • 15 June: Nixon takes legal action against the NYT
  • 18 June: Washington Post starts publishing Pentagon Papers
  • 30 June: Supreme Court votes 6-3 in favour of NYT and WP
  • 15 July: Nixon announces that he will visit China
  • 17 July: Nixon established 'Plumbers' unit to stop leaks
  • 18 August: Australia and New Zealand announce withdrawal from Vietnam
  • 22 September: Captain Medina acquitted over My Lai massacre
  • 31 December: US troop numbers drop to 156,000

1971

#148 John & Margie Cook A Soldier in Vietnam 1971 · Single · A Soldier in Vietnam / Old Maids Can Love You · Blake # 2-250 · USA
Annotation
The track "Soldier in Vietnam" (Blake Records # 2-250) looked at the soldier's perspective. Sung by John & Margie Cook, whom founded the label Blake Records in Memphis, Tennessee, they also released several Vietnam War singles: "From Memphis to Vietnam", "Oh God, Please Bring My Daddy Back", and "Eight Miles From Home". In the chorus, the soldier described the war as a nightmare, and then complained that "it seems there is no end, all we get is promises" - which may be interpreted as a criticism of the government or military command. Meanwhile, the soldier frequently thought of home, which distracted him from the fighting.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Blake Records 2-250 (PRP-33021), brown and yellow label; "A Soldier in Vietnam" (M. L. Tate, Sr.), John Cook Music – BMI, time 2:50; "Produced by John Cook, 3291 Park Ave., Memphis, Tenn." [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Oh this war is just a nightmare and it seems there is no end
All we get is promises that we're going to win
Give us something more to hope, so that they can carry on
Our hearts are not in Vietnam, but with our folks at home
Here I stood and looked across a dying field of rice
People say in the aftermath of war, it effects you...
He held a picture of his wife so everyone could see
As he stood there in Vietnam with ? Tennessee
All we need is common sense that we are going to win
Our heart are not in Vietnam, but with our folks at home
He thinks about the jungle trail as he tries to stay alert
But the thought of home keeps creeping in, as he tries to hide his nerve
He came here as a humble kid
He will leave here as a man, the war is just a nightmare
Show full lyrics (15 lines) ▾
#149 Skip Jackson and The Shantels Promise That You'll Wait 1971 · Single · I'm On to You Girl / Promise That You'll Wait · Dot-Mar # YE-324 -325 · USA
Annotation
Skip Jackson, born Tommy Brown, from New Jersey, backed by vocal group The Shantons, released the song "Promise That You'll Wait" (Dot-Mar Records # YE 324). The track was covered by Michael Lizzmore in 1972 - Promise That You'll Wait. It is narrated from the soldier's perspective, who has been at the war a while "since my note from Uncle Sam" - so obviously drafted into the conflict. He asked his loved one to "hang on a little bit longer baby" , and he looked forward to running to her "the second that I'm home" .
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
I've been a long way baby since my note from Uncle Sam
I've seen a lot of things that changed me from a boy to a man
Gee I know I've been away too long, but promise that you'll wait
I got a letter from a friend who says he found someone new
But my heart keeps trying I can't believe it's true
Hang on a little bit longer baby, promise that you'll wait
I look for your letters baby but they just don't come
I know deep down inside that I'm the only one
Until I'm home safe with you baby give my heart a break...
I'm gonna run to you baby the second that I'm home
#150 Fat City Readjustment Blues 1971 · Welcome to Fat City
Annotation
A folk rock duo, featuring Bill Danoff (vocals, guitar) and Taffy Nivert Danoff (vocals), formed in Washington D.C. In the song "Readjustment Blues" (Paramount Records # PAS 6028) they told the story of a soldier returning to the US from Vietnam, where he encountered an anti-war demonstration in Washington D.C. The veteran expressed shock at the change in society: "people carried signs...there was the flag I'd fought against". This anti-war feeling hit the veteran hard, as suggested by the title of the song. Thus, the song sought to capture the change to the lives of the veterans, who went away to war during a period of major political and cultural transformation in American society. John Denver released a version of this song on the album Aerie (1971).
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
Just out of the infantry this morning, I had to pay my dues across the sea
But no one back in boot camp ever warned me, what the readjustment blues would do to me
"Welcome to Havannah", said the pilot, "we must have made a wrong turn on the way"
"Let's buy some cigars and keep it quiet, if they don't know we're here we'll get away"
Just as I had realized he was joking I saw we were in Washington D.C.
'Cause there was all the patriotic buildings just like I had seen them on T.V.
It must have been a holiday, 'cause there was this parade, people carried signs I couldn't read that they had made
'Till I got closer and my heart fell to my socks
There was a battle raging and the air was filled with teargas and rocks
There was the flag I'd fought against...
The one I fought for hanging upside down
The wind was blowing hard, the dirt was flying, it made the city sky look dark and brown
I saw a girl, she could have been my sister, except her hair was long and in her face
She explained this was a demonstration, against the war and for the human race
Now I've seen a lot of strange things in my travels, cannibals, yes, and aliens galore
But I never thought I'd see so many people saying we don't want your war
The troops all had on uniforms, just like the one I'd worn
But they were all domestic and my duty chose war
They carried guns just like the ones across the sea
Except this time I was the citizen and they were pointing their guns at me
Yes, I was just a citizen and I was walking down the street
And it was just then that the readjustment blues got through to me
Show full lyrics (23 lines) ▾
#151 John Denver Readjustment Blues 1971 · Album · Aerie · RCA Victor # LSP-4607 · USA
Annotation
John Denver, born Henry John Deutschendorf, Jr., in Roswell, New Mexico (31 December 1943), became a hugely successful country pop singer/songwriter in the early 1970s. Throughout his career he sold over 33 million records. He died in Monterey, California (12 October 1997).1 He covered the song "Readjustment Blues" (RCA Victor # LSP-4607), about a veteran, adjusting from the life of a soldier to civilian society, as well as encountering major cultural and political changes in the US. Originally written by Bill Danoff of the folk rock duo Fat City, on their 1971 album Welcome to Fat City (Paramount Records # PAS 6028). This Denver cover became a more well-known and popular version. In 1972 he released the prisoner of war (P.O.W.) song called "Prisoners" on the album Rocky Mountain High (RCA Victor # LSP-4731).
Sources
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
#152 Jim Lea Mystery in Hanoi 1971 · Single · Mystery in Hanoi / Death Valley · RCI # 3003 · USA
Annotation
The song "Mystery in Hanoi" (RCI Records Inc. # 3003) by Jim Lee, a traditional pop tune that dealt with the P.O.W. issue. As suggested in the title, the song framed the issue of prisoners in North Vietnam as a mystery: "what has happened to all the prisoners" . The narrator wanted to know whether or not they had been killed: "have they found their peace up in heaven...will the prisoners ever return" . Released in 1971 on a Elmsford, New York based song poem company - song lyrics, sent to specialist publishing and recording companies, usually in response to an advertisement, that have been set to music for a fee (around $200-400). Hundreds of them dealt with political issues, including the Vietnam War.1 Produced by Ronnie Carpenter, and lyrics by Henry L. Miller.
Sources
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
RCI Records, 4 William Street, Elmsford, N.Y. 10523; 3003-A, 45 R.P.M.; "Mystery in Hanoi" (Henry L. Miller), Lone Lake Songs, Inc., BMI, time 2:12; producer Ronnie Carpenter. Green label with star. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
There's a mystery in Hanoi, tell us truly if you know
What has happened to all the prisoners, sons and husbands that we love so
We have prayed for their returning, and there is one thing we must all know
What's the mystery in Hanoi, where did all the prisoners go
Are they far away in bondage...are they all among the angels in the holy land
We have hopes of them returning, and you know our hearts do yearn
But the mystery that's in Hanoi, will the prisoners ever return
And they all died for their country, are they now at home with god
Have they found their peace up in heaven where they put beneath the sun
There's many shadows in Hanoi
But the truth, oh will we never learn
What's the mystery that's in Hanoi, why can't all the prisoners return
Genre: ♪ Country
#153 Joey Rivers (Let My People) Get Me Out of Here 1971 · Single · (Let My People) Get Me Out of Here / The P.O.W. · Rotten Rat # R-1005/06 · USA
Annotation
Another double-sided P.O.W. single, released around 1970, in Brooklyn, New York, in the garage rock genre. Both songs composed by J. Friscia. The a-side song "(Let My People) Get Me Out of Here" (Rotten Rat Records # R-1005/06) featured the sound-effects of gunfire and bomb exploding, as the narrator, a soldier who "fought for my country in Viet country" told the listener that he had been "captured" . He appealed for people to help his family get him out of Vietnam, by putting pressure on the politicians. It also contained a little Cold War atomic weapon imagery: he wanted the military to use any means necessary, "even A-bombs" , in order to secure his release.

The second song, "The P.O.W." , narrated in the third person, sought to keep the P.O.W. issue fresh in people's minds, pointing out that "by the morning we forget the P.O.W." . The narrated said that it did not matter about being anti-war or pro-government, hawk or dove, but that people in the US "owe a debt...to our prisoner of war" . Thus, he pleaded in the chorus for the US to bring home the P.O.W.s. The song also contained some personal biography of the fictional prisoner, saying that he had a two year old child that he had never met, and that his parents and "brave, courageous" wife suffered while the soldier remained in prison in Vietnam.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Rotten Rat Records 45-R-1005, D.J. copy, "A GJM Production", Rotten Rat Records, P.O. Box #209, Kensington Sta., Brooklyn, N.Y. 11218; "(Let My People) Get Me Out of Here" (J. Friscia), Ogfile Music Publ. Co., BMI, 3:10. The label shows a rat riding a motor scooter. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Fought for my country in Viet country, did my best, stood up...
Got myself captured, now I want you to get me out of here
Let my people get me out of here
These blasted months is turning into years
Make them politicians, let them hear...
There are some folks saying I should be patient
But...if they wore my shoes...and call them cowards...coming for this P.O.W.
Let my people get me out of here
These blasted months is turning into years
If it takes canon, let them use canon
Let the fire until I'm clear and free
Or even A-bombs, using a C-bomb, anything
To get me out of here, let my people get me out of here
Also in: ▤ Garage Rock Songs▤ P.O.W. / M.I.A. Songs▤ US 'Patriotic' / Pro-Government / Anti-Protest Songs [War Years] ▤ • Vietnam War: P.O.W. / M.I.A. Songs ▤ • Vietnam War: Garage Rock Songs
#154 The Dynamic Hughes Gospel Singers Viet Nam 1971 · Single · Beautiful City / Viet Nam · Designer # 6913 · USA
Credited on the record as The Dynamic Hughes Gospel Singers featuring Jerry Hughes.
Annotation
Another civil rights / Vietnam track, "Viet Nam" (Designer # 6913) by the Dynamic Hughes Gospel Singers, which came out of Memphis, Tennessee, noted that "in Vietnam" people were "fighting together to save the nation" , whether black or white. Therefore, why was there continued racial conflict in the US? The narrator cried out at the end of the song: "no more segregation in this land" .
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Designer 45/6913 (SW71-5978, A4KM-5979), gold label; "Viet Nam" (Hughes & Griffin), 2:37, Pretty Girl Music Co., B.M.I.; produced by Style Wooten & Charles Bowen; ©1971 Designer Record Production Co., 3373 Park Ave., Memphis, Tenn. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I was talking to a friend of mine the other day
He was telling me about the condition of Vietnam
He looked at me with tears in his eyes as he said these words:
I'd just arrived in Vietnam, lord let me survive
Now here I am...fighting together to save the nation...
Oh different colours, fighting side-by-side, helping each other
We called out, together...
Lets talk about me and you...
Help the nation and work together
No more, no more, no more segregation in this land
#155 Butch Christofer We Done Wrong! 1971 · Single · We Done Wrong! / We'll Have Fun · Chicken Row # CR-1002 · USA
Credited on the record as Butch Christofer (And The High Camp Society Band).
Annotation
The song "We Done Wrong!" (Chicken Row Records # CR-1002) can probably be classified as a song about My Lai and Calley - although it does not refer to either of those. Released by Butch Christofer and The High Camp Society Band, written by Arthur K. Weathers, and produced by Group V Productions. In the track, the first person narration starts off with a soldier heading to Vietnam with an open mind. However, the platoon encounters the Vietcong, which results in the killing of the enemy, as they were taught to do. They dumped the bodies in a pit: "we met old charlie, Vietcong, shot him dead... rolled him over in a open hole" . But someone stepped up to oppose the killings. Back in the US, with the support of the Congress, the soldiers are sentenced to life imprisonment by a jury, thus echoing the story of William Calley and the My Lai Massacre. The final line possibly made a reference to President Nixon. The narrators position, in terms of support for the soldier, the war, or anti-war was not clear, and thus placed in the soldier's perspective sector.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Chicken Row Records CR-1002-A, Side 1, stereo, © 1971 GVP, green label with a rooster drawing; "We Done Wrong!" (Arthur K. Weathers), St. Elmo Music, BMI, time 2:29; produced by Group V Productions; Butch Christofer (And The High Camp Society Band). [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Left my home in New Orleans, stopped for a while in the Philippines
On my way to a place called Vietnam
Rats and snakes in the grass, crawling up to bite my leg
Got to be careful in place called Vietnam
We got there with an open mind
Everything was going fine until we met old charlie, Vietcong
Shot him dead like we'd been told
Rolled him over in a open hole and a man stepped up and told us 'You done wrong'...
Gonna have to send you off to jail
Got the Congress on my back....
Jury said we done wrong
Shooting all them Vietcong just as though we didn't give a damn...
We got life, complements of Uncle Sam...
I done wrong, we done wrong
Everybody's done wrong
Richard done wrong
Show full lyrics (17 lines) ▾
#156 Newbury Park I Wanna Come Home 1971 · Single · I Wanna Come Home / My God and I · Cream # 1005 · USA
Notes
I Wanna Come Home (Newbury Park)
Notes
Cream 1005 (CR-107), white label marked "Promotion Copy – Not for Sale", Bennett Ent. Inc., Los Angeles, Calif.; "I Wanna Come Home" (Tommy Oliver), Suto Music Co.–BMI, 3:33 (:14 intro time); produced by Armed Productions, producer Tommy Oliver. Red Cream Records company sleeve: "a division of Bennett Enterprises Inc., Los Angeles, California". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#157 Gene Marshall I Will Come Back From Vietnam 1971 · Single · I Will Come Back From Vietnam / The Word of Love · Preview # 1958 · USA
Notes
- "I Will Come Back From Vietnam"

- Label: Preview Records # 1958
- Songwriter: Walter Jakszyk Sr.

- Traditional pop
- Soldier's perspective
- I'm tired of being in combat, but I'll come back, I promise
- I remember parting, a day of sadness
- Loading on a plane, to Vietnam
- I pray to come home today
- Hollywood, California

- Preview Records, 6311 Yucca, Hollywood, 1958-1; "I Will Come Back From Vietnam" (Walter Jakszyk Sr.), 2:07, Arthur Music, A.S.C.A.P.; Gene Marshall. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Also in: ▤ Song Poems
#158 Cecil Null Plastic Soldier 1971 · Single · K-Ark # K # 1071 · USA
Notes
- Country, toy soldier theme
- My toys fought the communists
- But now I'm on the battlefield
- It's not a game anymore
- Godforsaken jungle

- K-Ark Records, Record No. K# 1071-1, 45 RPM, stereo, red and black label; "Plastic Soldier" (Cecil Null-Stephen Bullard), Cedarwood Pub., BMI; Cecil Null; produced by John Capps. Rim text: "728 16th Avenue South, Nashville, Tenn." [From the record sleeve and labels]
#159 John & Margie Cook From Memphis to Vietnam 1971 · Single · Blake # 2-241 · USA
Notes
Blake 2-241, listed on Discogs as "Eighteen Wheels", 1971. [From Discogs]

1972

9-year-old Kim Phuc, as she runs down Route 1 near Trang Bang village, South Vietnam, after a US aerial napalm attack on suspected Viet Cong troops in the area. Taken on 8 June 1972 by Associated Press photographer Nick Ut.
Key EventsAs North Vietnam launched a major ground offensive against the South (Eastertide), the US resumed massive bombing campaigns over North Vietnam, including Hanoi in Operations Linebacker I & II throughout 1972. Peace talks in Paris continued, broke down, and then resumed, with major concessions made on both sides. The US finally withdrew all its combat troops, although 24,000 advisers and administrators remained.
  • 10 March: 101st Airbourne division withdrawn from Vietnam
  • March: North Vietnamese launch Eastertide Offensive
  • 4 April: "Freedom Train" begins - major US bombing of North Vietnam
  • 15 April: US Bombing of Hanoi and Haiphong harbour
  • 9 May: Beginning of Operation Linebacker: mass bombing of North Vietnam
  • 22 May: Nixon meets Brezhnev in Russia
  • 17 June: Watergate break-in
  • 14 July: George McGovern becomes Democratic presidential nominee
  • 7 November: Richard Nixon re-elected US president
  • 23 August: Last US combat troops leave Vietnam
  • 18 December: Operation Linebacker II ("Christmas Bombings")

1972

#160 Charlie C. Freeman From Saigon to Little Rock 1972 · Single · From Saigon to Little Rock / You're More Than I'm Worth · Sun # SUN-1112 · USA
Annotation
The country song "From Saigon to Little Rock" , on the famous Tennessee label Sun Records (# SUN-1112), in which the narrator recalled an exchange of letters between himself and his mother - his mother wanted him home to help with the farming duties, but the son is stuck in Vietnam for at least 10 months, and although "the greyhound is running" , it unfortunately "don't run from Saigon to Little Rock" .
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Sun #SUN-1112 (7-657), yellow Sun rooster-sunburst label; "From Saigon to Little Rock" (James Aho–Jerry Phillips–Charlie Freeman), Knox Music, Inc., BMI, time 3:04 + :08 intro; produced by Jerry Phillips & Knox Phillips; "Sun International Corp. – A Division of the Shelby Singleton Corp. – Nashville, U.S.A." [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Today I got a letter from my mama
Son, I want you home right away
Cotton needs chopping, and the weeds are growing high
I'm sending you a ticket for the next bus home tonight
Don't you know I thinking about you mama
But Arkansas is a long away from here
There is a sea of water between me and your doorway mama
I can't get back from 10 months to a year
The bus don't run from Saigon to Little Rock mama
I know the place back home ain't going right...
I'd like to be back home with you mama
And I miss you most of all at super time
And if something happens to me, remember mama I'll meet you where there will be no more dying
The bus don't run from Saigon to Little Rock mama
The greyhound is running, but it ain't running here tonight
Show full lyrics (16 lines) ▾
Genre: ♪ Country
#161 Charles Smith and Jeff Cooper Glad to Be Home 1972 · Single · My Great Loss (Ashes to Ashes) / Glad to Be Home · Seventy 7 # 106 · USA
Annotation
The song "Glad to Be Home" told the story of a veteran "just home from Vietnam" . Composed by Charles Smith, and performed by Smith and Jeff Cooper on the Nashville, Tennessee label Seventy 7 Records (# 106). It was actually recorded in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, produced by Dewey Vandiver, Warren Pratt, & Oscar Frank. The soldier told of "sitting in my foxhole, on a dark and rainy night" . Meanwhile, "bullets and shells were falling" . The soldier knew "somebody's son had died" , and so he was grateful "to be home again" . This song represented both war conditions and its impact on a veteran.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Seventy 7 Records 106 (JR 112), yellow label; "Glad to Be Home" (C. William Smith 100%), 2:56, Cape Ann Music, BMI & Blue Dawn Music, BMI; produced at Quad City Sound, Muscle Shoals, Ala., by Dewey Vandiver, Warren Pratt and Oscar Franck for JR Enterprises, Inc.; "Division of J R Enterprises, Inc., P.O. Box 6128, Nashville, Tennessee 37212". [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I was talking to a young soldier the other day who was just home from Vietnam
And he told me a story about his experience while over there
And he said, Charles, I want you put the words into song:
Oh, I'm glad to be home again, oh yes I am
I was in my foxhole, on a dark and rainy night
Bullets and shells were falling, they were falling left and right
And then I heard a distant roar, soldiers were on fire...
I knew right then somebody's son had died
I was talking to a soldier who had a lot of plans
When he get back home, lord have mercy...
Ask me my name boy, and he said his name was Joe
Let me tell all you people out there, Joe won't be coming home
#162 Winfield Parker Starvin' 1972 · Single · Starvin' / 28 Ways (She Loves Me) · Spring # SPR 126 · USA
Annotation
The song "Starvin" (Spring Records # SPR 126) by Winfield Parker (born 21 June 1942, Cooksville, Maryland), is a funk / soul song about a man returning to the US from Vietnam. He is desperately seeking a woman's love because "there ain't no soul sisters over in Vietnam" .
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Spring Records SPR 126 (SPR 126 A) (1119), 2066 212, green and white label; "Starvin'" (Phill Hurtt-Bunny Sigler), Assorted Music (BMI), time 2:52; produced by Bunny Sigler with Phill Hurtt for Mighty Productions, arranged by Roland Chambers; ℗ 1972 Polydor Incorporated; distributed by Polydor Inc., New York, New York. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Just got home baby and I need some help
I just can't seem to control myself
If I seem nervous now, girl don't worry...
There ain't no soul sisters over in Vietnam
Girl, I'm starvin', girl I'm starvin' for your love
Someone once said, and it ain't no lie
You don't miss your water until the well runs dry
#163 Ledford String Band He's Comin' From Vietnam 1972 · Album · Ledford String Band · Rounder # 8 · USA
#164 Tim Angenend Today or Tomorrow 1972 · Single · Fun City / Today or Tomorrow · DAP # 45-1006 · USA
Notes
DAP Records 45-1006 (LH-9020), P.O. Box 7364, Beaumont, Texas; B-side "Today or Tomorrow" (T. Angenend), 3:33, Adamsapple Music Co., BMI; producers D. Tanner and L. Toomim. A-side "Fun City" (4:20). [From the record sleeve and labels]
#165 Wallace Terry Guess Who's Coming Home: Black Fighting Men Recorded Live in Vietnam 1972 · Album · Black Forum # B 454L · USA
Credited on the record as No Artist.
Annotation
Documentary LP, "Guess Who's Coming Home - Black Fighting Men Recorded Live in Vietnam" (1972), narrated and recorded by Wallace Terry, a US journalist and historian (born 21 April 1938 in New York City, USA, and died on 29 May 2003 in Fairfax, Virginia, USA) on Black Forum Records, a Motown Records subsidiary - this included narration from Terry, Interview and Field Recording from Vietnam, including from actual battle scenes. A unique document, capturing the views of African-Americans in combat. Listen to the a-side and b-side.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Black Forum B 454L, a Motown subsidiary. Recorded, edited and narrated by Wallace Terry, with interviews and field recordings of African-American soldiers in Vietnam; producer Robert Chang; liner notes by Julian Bond. Part 1 (24:08), Part 2 (23:20).
#166 Buddy Holder Ballad of a Dying Soldier 1972 · Single · The Lord's Company / Ballad of a Dying Soldier · Sarah C # SC 101-B · USA
Notes
- Country, soldier's perspective, Killed in Action (K.I.A.) - Fighting overseas, had wife and kids, wanted to get home - But he'll never see them again - A-side: religion, god stood my me (possibly Vietnam as well?) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country

1973-1975: Paris Peace Accords to the Fall of Saigon

Between the Paris Peace Accords (27 January 1973) and the collapse of South Vietnam (30 April 1975). This marked the final end of the Vietnam War, with most American civilians and troops evacuated during the North Vietnamese invasion. The two halves of the country were reunified, and Saigon renamed Ho Chi Minh City, after the North Vietnamese leader Hồ Chí Minh.

1973

#167 Baltazar Lopez Adios a mi novia 1973 · Single · Adios a mi novia / Si tu supieras
Annotation
Mexican-American artist from Colorado, USA., he reelased the song "Adios a mi novia" ("Goodbye to My Girlfriend") (Infal Records # IN-134) which is narrated from a soldier's perspective, who asked his girlfriend to "please don't forget me", and he prayed to god that he would not be killed in battle. Song featured on the album Adios a mi novia. Another version of this song is by Luis Cacho on the single La despedida / Adios a mi novia, discussed below.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
Don't stop loving me and don't cry if they send me to fight
Pray to god I'm not killed
That I return soon to your side and be yours once again
Please don't forget me while I'm gone
As it's not that easy to forget a love
If I am killed in battle pray so that god hears
And if god grants me life so that I return to see you
We will create a home together and live happily ever after
And give our hearts to god...
#168 Shadrack I Wonder Why 1973 · Single · I Wonder Why / It Was Me · Sonic · USA
Notes
- Psychedelic rock
- Iowa, USA

- Soldier in combat, friend is K.I.A., why does it have to be? Anti-war leaning
Lyrics
English
I crawl across the soft wet land
With hope in my heart and a gun in my hand
I want to run but I must stay
To try and survive for one more day
War is grief, it's misery
I wonder why it has to be
I wonder why, I wonder why it has to be
Tell me why it has to be, Lord, I just can't see
A shot rings out, I jump with fear
I feel the wind whiz by my ear
I turned around and there he lay
My best friend has died today
War is grief, it's misery
I wonder why it has to be
I wonder why, I wonder why it has to be
Tell me why it has to be, Lord, I just can't see
War is grief, it's misery
Show full lyrics (18 lines) ▾
#169 Troy Crane Springtime Down in Texas (Soldiers Last Dream in Viet Nam) 1973 · Single · Springtime Down in Texas (Soldiers Last Dream in Viet Nam) / The Gypsy Song · Oak # 35261 · USA
Notes
Springtime Down in Texas (Soldiers Last Dream in Viet Nam) (Crane, Troy)

Country. Adilene, Texas, USA.
Soldier's perspective - 65 miles from Saigon
Dreaming of Texas, family, and home life.
Notes
Oak Record Co., Abilene, Texas (PRP 35261), white label; "Springtime Down in Texas (Soldiers Last Dream in Viet Nam)" (Troy Crane), Oakcrest Music, BMI, time 2:45. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Genre: ♪ Country
#170 Harold Lowery Seven Lonely Years 1973 · Single · Seven Lonely Years / Honey I Really Love You · Artist World # AW 102 · USA
Notes
- post-war 1973 P.O.W., draft, country
- soldier's perspective
- 1965 they sent me to Vietnam (drafted)
- But been here 7 years in prison
- Returned to the US - parents, wife, and job all gone

- Artist World AW 102, pressed by Atwell Record Pressing (ARP 2155/2156).

Label: stereo, side A, ARP 2155; written by Woody Hueston; Lee Wayne Music, BMI; time 2:45; produced by Bobby Helm. [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
#171 Kenny Burgess Soldier-Peace 1973 · Single · Soldier-Peace / Fear · Circle # 1008 · USA
Notes
Soldier-Peace (Burgess, Kenny)

Nashville, Tennessee. Country, fanfare.
Draft card burning. Combat description.
Notes
Circle Records 1008, pressed by United Record Pressing (UR-257).

Label: 1008-A (UR-257-A); written by Kenny Burgess; Rubi-Dido Pub. Co.—BMI; time 3:03; Rt. 4, Old Hickory Blvd., Nashville, Tenn. 37211. [From the record label]
Lyrics
English
He was just a young man, I don't know his exact age
18 or 20, or 22 some might say
He was serving in the armed forces of his country so the story goes
Even though he didn't want to be there
And he didn't believe in this here war
Some of our politicians and leaders of this great land
They called it police action over in a foreign land
But anytime there is a taking or sacrifice of human lives
To me this is war, they can call it what they like
While in basic his buddies gave him the nickname peace
No he didn't burn his draft card, or he didn't tear up our proud flag
And he ended up in a place that they called Vietnam
And one night with his company while out on patrol
They came in contact with the enemy and the shooting started once more
But by day break the next morning the shooting had died away
And the men started regrouping
Calling out the numbers and the names
But when the counting was over they were short of one number and one name
Well right away they starting searching for their comrade in arms
And one of the men found in face down in the ground
And as he walked up to him he said 'Hey peace, old buddy it's time to go now'
But there was no answer, they body just lay quit and still
And by now all the other men had gathered around
And as they stared at the quit and still body on the ground
One of his buddies bent down and turned him over very easy
And as he said a small prayer, a tear flowed down his cheek
And he said 'you know, I don't even know his real name
The only name I ever knew him by was peace'
And the name does truly fit
Because he is now with his creator and he is at peace
Soldier-peace, glory, glory, hallelujah, his truth is marching on
Show full lyrics (32 lines) ▾
Genre: ♪ Fanfare
Also in: ▤ Draft Songs
#172 Lonnie Hull Prisoners of War 1973 · Single · Prisoners of War / Ridin' Around in My VW · Trinity Sound Corporation # TS45-1002 · USA
#173 Woody Potts and The Country Gentlemen Ten Thousand Miles 1973 · Single · Ten Thousand Miles / Bucharest Cannonball · Filicon # F/W 10965 · USA
Credited on the record as Woody Potts And The Country Gentlemen.
Notes
Ten Thousand Miles (Potts, Woody)

Country, soldier's perspective, P.O.W.
Broomall, Pennsylvania, USA
I wish I was a bird to fly away 10,000 miles
B-side dedicated to all P.O.W.s (WW2 song?)
Notes
Filicon Records Inc., Broomall, Pa., F/W 10965A, stereo; "Original song from Of Lice and Men"; "Dedicated to the fathers and would-be fathers that did not survive from any war"; © 1973 (William J. Fili); Nardello Music Publishing Co., BMI. [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
#174 Charlie Royal The Soldier and the Flag 1973 · Single · The Soldier and the Flag / Will You Be Satisfied · Moon Star # 1012 · USA
Notes
Country. Tennessee. [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#175 Gordon Calcote Where the Wind Goes 1973 · Single · Where the Wind Goes / I May Never Pass This Way Again · Appaloon # 101 · USA
Notes
Country, soldier's perspective. Soldier with gun wondering what he's doing there in the foxhole. [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country

1974

#176 John & Margie Cook Eight Miles From Home 1974 · Single · Eight Miles From Home / Because We Cheated · Blake # 2-286 · USA
Notes
Blake 2-286, 1974. [From Discogs]
#177 George Jones The Door 1974 · Single · The Door / Wean Me · Epic # 8-50038 · USA
Notes
The Door I've heard the sound of my dear old mama crying / And the sound of the train that took me off to war / The awful sound of a thousand bombs exploding / And I wondered if I could take it anymore / There were times when they almost drove me crazy / But I did my best and took it like a man / And who would think in my lonely room I'd hear it / The one sound in the world my heart can't stand / To hear that sound and to know its really over / Through tear stained eyes I watched her walk away / And of earthquakes, storms and guns and war / Lord, nothing has ever hurt me more than that lonely [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
Also in: ▤ PTSD Songs
#178 Major Bill Schumpert Vietnam - Past Tense 1974 · Single · Vietnam - Past Tense / Lord Help Us All · Cub # MC45741 · USA
Notes
Country. South Carolina, USA. 1974 post-war. Veteran's perspective - was it worth fighting for? [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#179 Lt. Clebe McClary Personal Testimony 1974 · Album · Not On Label # CM 5358 · USA

Unknown date

#180 Walking Bill Smith Vietnam Mud Vietnam Mud / He Set Me Free
Notes
- Bluegrass gospel, narrator from soldier's perspective
- Combat description
- People at home watching TV, including Lady Bird
- Hippies taking LSD
- I can't tell the difference between the VC and Vietnamese (presumably South / civilians)
#181 Wally Willette Voice of a P.O.W. Single · Voice of a P.O.W. / Blue Broken Heart · TIM # 107 · USA
Annotation
The song "Voice of a P.O.W." (TIM # 107) by Wally Willette - he founded the label in 1964 (also known as Tops in Music), based in Pensacola, Florida. Distributed by Sounds of Nashville.1 The single is undated, but probably released during the war years. Fitting into the country music genre, Willette narrated the song from the perspective of a US P.O.W., who told the listener of the terrible conditions he suffered in prison and the mental and physical impact it had: "just a shell of a man, half alive, half dead...my mind is bent, my legs are getting weak" . He said that the North Vietnamese "march me through the streets, they call me dirty names" . So he pleaded with the people in the US not to forget about him and the other P.O.W.s. Written by Doug Zepp. Arranged by Know Phillips.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
TIM ("Tops in Music") 107-A (SON 97522), 45 RPM; "Voice of a P.O.W." (Doug Zepp), 2:10, Knox Music, Inc., BMI; produced and arranged by Knox Phillips. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I'm a prisoner of war with just a roof above my head
Just a shell of a man, half alive, half dead
A man from the land of the brave and the home of the free
America don't forget about me
My mind is bent, my legs are getting weak and the enemy march me through the streets
They call me dirty names and spit in my face /Oh god I wish I was in some other place
I pray each night before I try to sleep, lord, don't let me die
Just give me one more week
Through the bars the sun greets me...
I've been here so long it's hard to tell
Every day seems like another day in hell
Its been so long since I shaved or washed my face...
My eyes are heavy from nights that I can't sleep
My stomach hurts from the food they give me...
I've lost a lot of weight and there are lines on my face
Show full lyrics (16 lines) ▾
Genre: ♪ Country
#182 Marilyn Gould More Than Being Lonesome Single · More Than Being Lonesome / Prayer From a P.O.W. · P.O.W. # 101 · USA
Annotation
A double-side Vietnam War single, in the country music genre, which looked at the prisoner of war / missing in action situation. The a-side addressed the perspective of a P.O.W.'s wife / girlfriend, while the b-side provided the perspective of the P.O.W., both narrated in the first person. Maureen Smith composed the songs. Produced by Scotty's studio, unknown location and date. Publisher: Golden Boy Music. In the first track "More Than Being Lonesome" (P.O.W. # 101) Marilyn Gould sung about the difficulty of not knowing when "your man is M.I.A." She wondered if he had been taken captive or if he had died. As the title suggested, while she felt loneliness and pain, the not knowing added another element which "tears you apart" .The b-side song "Prayer From a P.O.W." provided the P.O.W.'s view - it is credited to Marilyn Gould as above, but it is actually an unknown male vocalist. This track, like many others, chose to present the terrible conditions that the prisoners may have been experiencing. This is done through the form a prisoner's prayer to god. The prisoner described his situation, in which he had lost track of time. Being held captive for eight years had started to take a physical toll on him: "my wound still hurts...my vision is blurred...teeth are rotting" . He had given up asking for decent food or medication, while in his mind he had moved on from anger and indignation, yet he still could not find peace. He wanted his "family's voices to fill my silent nights" . He asked for god to look over his family for him.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
P.O.W. Records, yellow label; A-side P.O.W.-101A (ARP-1723) "More Than Being Lonesome" (Larry Thomas-Judy Thomas-Maureen Smith), Country Stream Music—BMI, 3:03; B-side P.O.W.-101B (ARP-1724) "Prayer From a P.O.W." (Maureen Smith), Golden Boy Music—BMI, 1:50; both produced by Scotty's Studio. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
It's more than being lonesome when your man is M.I.A.
He fought and maybe even died, where is he today
It's more than being lonesome when you're raising your kids alone
You know your man still loves you
But may never return home, it's more than being lonesome
It's not knowing that tears you apart
You believe he is alive for you feel it in your heart
It's more than being lonesome
The flame of hope still burns
You pray for god to help him and grant his safe return
It's more than being lonesome
It's the whisper of the prayer and there's no way to share his fear
And suffer his despair
It's more than being lonesome
It's not knowing that tears you apart
Show full lyrics (16 lines) ▾
#183 Marilyn Gould Prayer From a P.O.W. Single · More Than Being Lonesome / Prayer From a P.O.W. · P.O.W. # 101 · USA
Annotation: see “More Than Being Lonesome” above (same release).
Lyrics
English
Well god, another day in my endless tunnel of time has passed
And I'm alive, my wound still hurts.../ My vision is blurred, my coordination is going, and my teeth are rotting in my mouth
But I'm alive...even if they did take a chunk of my mind, my heart, and my soul, I've outlived anger and indignation
But I can't seem to live in peace with my gut crawling fears
After eight years I know better than to ask for food instead of slop, medication to sooth the pain...
Freedom to replace the degrading solitary or my family's voices to fill my silent nights
So I won't take up any more of your time tonight god
Except to ask you to hold my loved ones in your hand
To say, hey thanks for today...and tomorrow
#184 Charlie Bee & Cockleburs P.O.W. Single · P.O.W. / Average Worker · Glolite # GL 102 · USA
Annotation
The song "P.O.W." (Glolite Records # GL 102) by the country artist Charlie Bee & Cockleburs, out of Memphis, Tennessee, presented the perspective of a soldier "in North Vietnam" in a "prisoner of war camp" . The soldier described to his parents the difficult conditions, with no shoes in his cold feet and being treated roughly. He called on America to "wake up" and for the president to bring home the P.O.W.s. He also described how he had to bury his friend, and how this would impact on his wife and baby boy. At the end of the song, the soldier said "it's good to know someone cares" . Written by Thurman Pruitt. Produced by Bill Glore and Lewis Willis - Glore actually founded this record label. He later purchased the famous American Sound Studios.1 Probably released in the early 1970s.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Glolite Records GL 102 A (8888), 760 Los Angeles, Memphis, Tennessee 38112; "P.O.W." (Thurman Pruitt), 2:49, Glolite Publ. Co. and Cocklebur Music Co., BMI; produced by Bill Glore & Lewis Willis. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
We're over in North Vietnam, in this prisoner of war camp
They give us rice and fish to eat, we have no shoes for our cold feet
Please North Vietnamese, won't you hear our pleas
Won't you set us free
Mama, I'm singing this song for you
Wish you and dad were near, it gets mighty rough over here
They don't treat us very well, won't you make America wake up...
Please Mr. President help us get back home
Mama, they buried my buddy today, and I don't know what I'll say to his wife and their baby boy
I know you and dad are praying for me
I can feel your prayers...
And mama, it's good to know someone cares
Genre: ♪ Country
#185 Timmy Norman I'm Coming Home Single · I'm Coming Home / I Owe My Loving to You · Bronze # 106 · USA
Annotation
The song "I'm Coming Home" (Bronze Records # 106) by Timmy Norman - nothing known about the label, artist, or year of release. This melancholic soul track does not specifically mention Vietnam. But the narrator tells the listener that "I'm out here in this hole and rain" , as he sadly wondered how a man can make it in the world "when the army calls you" . He really missed his sweetheart, asking her to "keep on waiting for me" because he will be home soon. It ended on a peace note, with the soldier hoping for day when "they'll be no war, no more" .
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
I know its been hard while we've been apart
But you know I love you from the bottom of my heart
So keep on waiting for me, I'll make it up
Just you wait and see
Cause I'm coming home
They took me away from your love, a love that was so true
But how can a man make it when the army calls you
There will be times when the going will get rough
And I know they'll be times when everyday will be tough
You know I'm coming home
I'm out here in this hole and rain
Oh my aching heart is filled with such much pain
Wondering when they'll be no war, no more
#186 Henry Scott Jr Bye, Bye, Baby, Hello Vietnam Single · Bye, Bye, Baby, Hello Vietnam / Shing-Ga-Ling · Shatter # 2317 · USA
Annotation
The track "Bye, Bye, Baby, Hello Vietnam" (Shatter Records # 2317) by Henry Scott Jr. - released on a Nashville, Tennessee based label - was mainly a love song, in which a soldier reassured his sweetheart that "I'll make it back to you one day" . It did not take a clear position on the war, but the narrator expressed either a sense of duty or fear of the law, as going to Vietnam was "something that I must do" . Was the soldier reluctantly drafted, or proudly fighting for his country? The narrator tells his sweetheart at the end of the track that he wanted to avoid "just to be in love and not being free" - once again, is that a reference to prison (for avoiding the draft) or supporting the government's war objectives?
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
I wrote a letter only the other day
It was hard to explain the things I wanted to say
But I tried to tell her the reason I had to go
To the far away land even though I loved her so
I said goodbye, goodbye baby, hello to Vietnam
I told her not to worry while I am gone
And when it's all over I'll be with you all night long
Try to remember something that I must do And when it's all over baby, I'll come back to you
I said goodbye, goodbye baby, hello to Vietnam
I begged her not to cry, please don't have any fear...
There's one more man, don't forget to pray
That I'll make it back to you one day
Why is it so hard to explain that it's you a really love...
But just to be in love and not being free
Something I know you won't ever want to happen to me
Show full lyrics (16 lines) ▾
#187 Johnny Louis Santa's Gonna Bring Me Home Single · Santa's Gonna Bring Me Home / Christmas Is Here · Pic # 1 141 · USA
Annotation
A short country music song, clocking in at 1.35, called "Santa's Gonna Bring Me Home" (Pic 1 # 141), released around 1967 by Johnny Louis. The narrator, a soldier, said to the listener "I've been here in Vietnam" , but he thought that Santa would take him home in time for Christmas. On the way the soldier would help deliver all the presents to the boys and girls in every town. Composed by Johnny Gondesen. Released in Pasadena, Texas, on one of the many record label founded by Huey P. Meaux, a famous American record producer known as "Crazy Cajun".1
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Pic 1 141 (JL-2), 45 RPM, red and silver label marked "D. J. Copy"; "Santa's Gonna Bring Me Home" (Johnny Gondesen), Crazy Cajun Music, BMI, 1:35. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
We'll be happy at Christmas he told me on the phone
I've been here in Vietnam, Santa's gonna bring me home
Mommy said I'll ride with Santa Claus to help give out all the toys
Make a lot of stops in every town, there'll be a lot of happy boys and girls
So we'll be happy at Christmas, Santa told me on the phone
I've been here in Vietnam, Santa gonna bring me home..bring me home
Genre: ♪ Country
#188 The Mask Christmas Letter Single · Viet Nam Prayer / Christmas Letter · It'll Do # 1000 · USA
Annotation
The song "Christmas Letter" (It'll Do Records # 1000) by the Mask - a country novelty record about a soldier in Vietnam during Christmas. It took a humorous tone, as the soldier hoped his father, back home, will cut down on the drinking and go to church on Christmas day. The soldier had a Christmas tree in Vietnam, all wet and muddy, but it protected him from the bullets: "don't worry mum, I have a Christmas tree...it protects me from the shells" . Also, the Red Cross supplied doughnuts to the soldier, which were apparently just as good as his mum's cooking. At the end of the song, the soldier sent out a Christmas wish to everyone from "under my Christmas tree in Vietnam" . Unknown artist, label, and year.The record also included the track "Viet Nam Prayer" , which took a more serious approach. The narrator, a soldier, prayed to god to end the war in Vietnam, so that all the soldiers could get "out of this jungle" and then "be with our mothers, wives and girlfriends" . He also prayed for god to bring together at the conference table the leaders of the United States (referencing President Johnson), China, and Russia.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
It'll Do Records 1000, pink label; both sides written by The Mask and published by Sandra Music Publishing (BMI). Side A, "Christmas Letter" (C. L. 5598-A), 2:00; side B, "Viet-Nam Prayer" (V. N. 5598-B), 2:05. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Merry Christmas mum, sis, and dad, I hope you are well and fine mum
I hope you can get dad to church, maybe he'll quit drinking this time
Sis, I want to to say I'm sorry for not getting along better, tell your boyfriend I'm sorry I was rude to him
Mum, tell the man at the finance company that I'll pay him, if I ever get home
Mum, tell my buddies there hello and wish them and everyone a merry Christmas from me
Don't worry mum, I have a Christmas tree
It is wet and the ground is muddy but it protects me from the shells...
Mum, I'm sending you the Christmas money bag, thanks, but we don't need it here
We have the Red Cross and the doughnuts are so good I feel that I'm in your kitchen...
I'm wishing everyone a merry Christmas from under my Christmas tree in Vietnam
#189 The Mask Viet Nam Prayer Single · Viet Nam Prayer / Christmas Letter · It'll Do # 1000 · USA
Annotation: see “Christmas Letter” above (same release).
Lyrics
English
Oh lord, you could answer so many prayers at once
And I think they would be as mine, mothers, wives and girlfriends...
Oh lord I think of you to get all of the great countries together
The United States, China, Russia, and the many others
Lord, I am sure the Mr. Johnson and others have talked to you...
I know my girlfriend has prayed for this, oh lord
I pray from this hole in the jungle, knowing if I should stand they'll end this prayer with a bullet
Lord, I know in my mind his mothers, wife or girlfriend wouldn't want me to kill him
So I'll finish this prayer before we take the other hill
Oh lord, I hope for all in this great land that you bring all of our great leaders to...the conference table
Then I can go up the hill behind us and out of this jungle
Then all the soldier may go back to our lands
Be with our mothers, wives and girlfriends
#190 Wade Jackson A GI's Letter From Home EP · Merry Christmas Country Style · Tennessee # 45-151 · USA
Annotation
The song "A GIs Letter From Home" (Tennessee Records # 45-151) by country singer Wade Jackson, released in Gallatin, Tennessee, looked at the soldier perspective, during Christmas time, as the GIs longed for letter from home. The song does not mention Vietnam, but was released during the era (although the precise date is unknown).
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Tennessee Records 45-151-EP (ARP-7028), yellow label with a state-outline logo, "From the Tennessee-LP-102 'Merry Christmas Country Style With Wade Jackson'"; this side carries 1. "Daddy Wants a Cuddling Doll for Christmas", 2:52, and 2. "A GI's Letter From Home", 3:10, both Cheeawa, BMI; "Dist. Exclusively by Tennessee Records, 620 Tulip Circle, Gallatin, Tenn." [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Come Christmas they long for a letter from home
It was a week before Christmas
And all down the line our men overseas were working overtime
To get to spend time with their families or maybe to scoot into town on Christmas eve
Now in B Company, was a little fellow named Lee
He was a little old PFC, from old Tennessee
The roster was posted, cause someone you know had the guard duty so that others could go
Lee saw his name, and said boys, if you'll don't get in jail, have that goofy mail clerk to bring up my mail
'Haha his mail', laughed his sergeant...
Still looking for letters he don't never get
Well they run into goofy in some bistro in town
Now he was drinking, just had troubled getting around
They went through his pockets though and it shocked them to see
There was a hand written letter for Lee
Well the sergeant spoke up and said I'll take it back, it's from old Lee's mother you can tell for a fact
I might not get back to the party I know, but he's not had a letter for over two months or so
Well a blizzard blew up, as towards the outpost he strove...
Far from their firesides these wild young men roam
Come Christmas they long for a letter from home, come Christmas
Show full lyrics (20 lines) ▾
#191 Pancho Pantera 4 lenguas Single · El 4 lenguas / La taquiza · RCA Victor # 76-2386 · Mexico
Credited on the record as Pancho Pantera y Conjunto Jesus de Hijar.
Annotation
Ángel Rojano Jiménez, known as Pancho Pantera, started his career as an actor, doing commercials for a well-known brand of powdered chocolate, Pancho Pantera - hence the nickname. He starred in over 20 films.1 He was a member of the Mexican group Conjunto Río Bravo. This record was released in the USA. No further information is known about this artist, and he potentially could be from Mexico, rather than Mexican-American.

The song "El 4 Lenguas" ( "The 4 Language" ) (RCA Victor # 76-2386), composed by Melesio Chaidez Díaz, is related to the Vietnam War, narrated from the soldier's perspective: "I went to Vietnam, all the way overseas" . It is in the Polka genre. It contained the interesting introduction: "I’m Mexican, from the other side" - is this a reference to being from a border town? He continues, "I was a soldier of this land and over there" - perhaps, a soldier of the US, over there in Vietnam. The narrator goes off to war, but observes "the cowards were scared to die" , so he yelled at them in the four languages he spoke, saying "I'm Mexican, now let yourselves come over" - said as an insult to cowards. Transcription and translation by Joel Garcia.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
RCA Victor 76-2386, 45 RPM, "(Grabado en México)", made in U.S.A. by Radio Corporation of America, Pending USKM-5326; "El 4 Lenguas - Polka" (Melo Díaz), 2:15; credited to Pancho Pantera y Conjunto Jesus de Hijar. Issued in an RCA Victor company sleeve with the Nipper "His Master's Voice" logo. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I speak well in every language
I'm Mexican, I come from the other side
I was a soldier of this land and of over there
And here my countrymen are sharpshooters in the canyons, I'd like to put them to the test
I went to Vietnam, all the way overseas
And the cowards were afraid to die
I yelled at them in four languages: I'm Mexican, so come and get it
Me speaking English, me speaking Spanish, me speaking in French, I'm speaking in Chinese
That's four languages this guy speaks...
And I'm not Chinese, nor am I American
I'm Mexican, I was born free
And I really like the fair-haired girls
And I lie to them with the plain truth
I'm going to tell you what English is good for
With a case, man, that I'll never forget
A gringa told me "I love you" and I French-kissed her on the lips
Me speaking English, me speaking Spanish, me speaking in French, I'm speaking in Chinese
That's four languages this guy speaks
Spanish
Bien speaking en todos Los Idiomas
Soy Mexicano vengo del otro lado
Yo fui soldado de esta tierra y de alla
Y aqi los paisas son rematones en los cañones los quisiera calar
Yo fui at Vietnam hasta overseas
Y los cobardes tenian miedo morir
Yo les gritaba en cuatro lenguas, soy mexicano y dejense venir
Me speaking English, me speaking Spanish, me speaking in French, I'm speaking in Chinese
Son quatro lenguas que habla este...
Y no soy chino ni soy Americano
Soy Mexicano, naci con libertad
Y las guerritas me gustan mucho
Ye yo les lai con la pura verdad
Voy a decir les pa que sirve el ingles
Con caso brato que nunca olvidare
Una gringita me dijo “i labe you” y yo en el labio lo bese frances
Me speaking English, me speaking Spanish, me speaking in French, I'm speaking in Chinese
Son quatro lenguas que habla este
Show full lyrics (39 lines) ▾
#192 Ramon Ayala & Los Bravos del Norte El soldado raso Single · El soldado raso / Ya te he olvidado · Freddie # FR-334 · USA
Credited on the record as Ramon Ayala y Los Bravos del Norte.
Annotation
The song "El soldado raso" (Freddie Records # FR-334) ( "The Common Soldier" ) - a traditional Mexican war song, released in Corpus Christi, Texas, on a record label founded by Freddie Martínez, during the Vietnam War era. Ramon Ayala was born on 8 December 1945, in Nuevo León, Monterrey, Mexico, while the group Los Bravos del Norte was formed in Mexico, in 1971. Narrated from the perspective of "a private" off to war, the soldier was concerned about leaving his mother, asking the "Virgin of Guadalupe" to protect her - this is a Catholic title for the Virgin Mary, dating back to apparitions in December 1531 at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City. The lyrics contained some nationalist content related to being Mexican: "I will prove that my race knows how to die" and "here goes another Meixcan that is going to risk his life" . Transcription by Eric Silberberg and Ignacia Morales Reyes. Translation by Eric Silberberg.1
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Freddie FR-334-1 (LH-18081), stereo, red label with trumpet logo, 1316 N. Chaparral, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401; "El Soldado Raso" (Felipe Valdez Leal), time 4:00; credited to Ramon Ayala y Los Bravos del Norte. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I’m going to be a private
I’m going to enter the ranks
With the brave guys
That leave dear mothers
That leave girlfriends crying
Crying over their goodbye
I leave content for war
I got a rifle and a pistol
I will return a sargent
When this thing is finished
I only feel sorry
To leave my mother alone
Dark Virgin
To you I entrust my mother
Care for her, she is very good
Care for her until I return
Virgin of Guadalupe
Protect my flag
When you find me there in campaign
Very far from my country
I will prove that my race
Knows how to die where it wants
Tomorrow I leave early
At the break of the dawn
Here goes another Meixcan
That is going to risk his life
That says goodbye singing
Long live my country
Dark Virgin
Send him your consolation
Never again permit
That heaven take a life
Spanish
Me voy de soldado raso
Voy a ingresar a las filas
Con los valientes muchachos
Que dejan madres queridas
Que dejan novia llorando
Llorando su despedida
Salgo contento a la guerra
Ya tengo rifle y pistola
Ya volveré de sargento /Cuando se acabe la bola
Nomás una cosa siento
Dejar a mi madre sola
Virgen morena
Mi madre te encomiendo
Cuídala que es muy buena
Cuídala mientras vuelvo
Virgen guadalupana
Protégela a mi bandera
Hay cuando me halle en campaña
Muy lejos ya de mi tierra
Les probaré que mi raza
Sabe morir donde quiera
Mañana salgo temprano
Al despuntar nuevo día
Aquí va otro Mexican
Que va a jugarse la vida
Que se despide cantando
Que viva la patria mía
Virgen morena
Mandale su consuelo
Nunca jamás permitas
Que se la lleve cielo
Show full lyrics (66 lines) ▾
#193 Mariachi Jalisciense El soldado raso Single · El soldado raso / Que seas feliz · El Zarape # E.Z.-168 · USA
Credited on the record as Mariachi Jalisciense, Cantan: Little Joe y Johnny.
Annotation
Tex-Mex group, featuring Rubén Fuentes. The song "El soldado raso" (El Zarape # E.Z.-168) ( "The Common Soldier" ) was released in Dallas, Texas, USA.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
El Zarape Records E.Z.-168, Side 1, magenta and cream label; "El Soldado Raso", time 3:30; Mariachi Jalisciense, "Cantan: Little Joe y Johnny"; prod. by Johnny Gonzales; El Zarape Recording Co. – Distributors, P.O. Box 8921, Dallas 16, Texas. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#194 Freddie Gomez Soldado raso Album · Porque estamos en Vietnam · Bronco # BRLP-043 · USA
Annotation
Freddie Gomez song "Soldado raso" (Falcon # 1117), which appeared on both the 1966 album El hijo del soldado raso (Falcon Records # FLP-2014), and the LP Porque estamos en Vietnam (Bronco # BRLP-043), discussed below. Gomez was born in Los Indios, Texas, USA (6 August 1932). He died in Carricitos, Texas, USA on 3 September 2005. These records all featured on the Arnaldo Ramírez Mexican-American record labels in Texas: ARV, Falcon, Bronco, and Bego.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Bronco BRLP-043, red labels with the black rearing-horse Bronco logo, "A Division of Falcon Record Co. McAllen, Texas", label title "Vietnam -Por que estamos en Vietnam-"; back cover "Otra producción 'Falcon' en alta fidelidad", manufactured by Falcon Record Co., McAllen, Texas. Lado A: "Una carta a mi hijo" (Gabino García; Vicente Gutiérrez, Ramms-BMI) 3:05, "Paz en la tierra" (Juan Alfredo Pérez; Juan Alfredo Pérez, Ramms-BMI) 2:37, "La canción del soldado" (Juan Alfredo Pérez; Francisco Salazar) 2:17, "A la guerra me llevan" (Gilberto Pérez; arr.

G. Pérez) 2:50, "El hijo del soldado" (Freddie Gómez; José A. Morante) 3:10; Lado B: "Por que estamos en Vietnam" (Arnaldo Ramírez; Arnaldo Ramírez, Ramms-BMI) 3:30, "El padre del soldado" (Henry Zimmerle; Francisco Montalvo) 3:30, "Esperanza de un soldado" (Los Dos Rebeldes; López-Maldonado) 2:20, "La novia del soldado" (Eligio Salinas; Rafael Cantú, Ramms-BMI) 2:56, "Soldado raso" (Freddie Gómez; Felipe Valdes Leal) 3:05.

The back is headed "Un homenaje a los integrantes de nuestras fuerzas armadas, con un saludo muy especial para nuestros soldados, marinos y pilotos" and prints a Spanish statement by Dean Rusk, "Secretario de Estado - U.S.A.", explaining that the United States is in Vietnam because of mutual-security treaty commitments made in 1955, and that failing to honour them would risk a world war; it credits a "special performance for this album" by the Falcon artists Juan Alfredo Perez, Freddie Gomez, Eligio Salinas, Henry Zimmerle, Los Dos Rebeldes, Gilberto Perez, Arnaldo Ramirez and Gavino Garcia, and advertises Bronco BRLP-042 (Beulah), BRLP-040 (Hermanos Layton) and BRLP-039 (Luis Aguilar and María Alejandra).

The front cover is a drawing of soldiers in green uniforms advancing through grass, one handing a rifle across the ground, and this copy carries a handwritten ballpoint inscription dated "Jan 26 '71". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#195 Freddie Gomez El hijo del soldado Album · Porque estamos en Vietnam · Bronco # BRLP-043 · USA
Annotation: see “Soldado raso” above (same release).
Lyrics
English
I'm leaving as a private, like my father did
Because I'm a valiant lad and I might not make it back
Don't cry, my beloved mother, I'll carry you in my soul
Tell my girlfriend that I didn't want to let her know
I'd rather write her a letter, I don't want to see her cry
If they don't kill me, we'll come back and get married
I leave early tomorrow on an airplane to Vietnam
I'm going to a land without hunger and I'll try my luck again
The Mexican people never know how to back down
Virgin of heaven, patroness of kindness, give them love and comfort, and charity to my love
They gave me a rifle and a pistol, they also gave me a cannon
To destroy enemies, a fight without conditions
This is a new war, our nation is in danger
I'm going with my comrades from Chicago and New York
Los Angeles, San Francisco, the ones from Phoenix were the best
And also some brothers of the tricolour flag
Goodbye San Antonio, Texas, I leave you my devotion
When I come back [?] I'll sing you a different song
Because my people are valiant and full of heart
Spanish
Me voi de soldado razo como mi padre se fue
Por lo valiente muchach y talves no volvere
No llores madre querida que mi alma te llevare
Le dicen a mi amorada que no le quise avisar
Mejor le escribo una carta, no quiero ver la llorar
Acaso no me matan y nos venemos a casar
Mañana salgo temprano en un avion a Vietnam
Me voi a tierra sin hambre y voi de nuevo a probar
La raza mexicana nunca se sabe rajar
Virgen del cielo partona de la bondad, dales amor y consuelo y a mi amor la caridad
Me dieron rifle y pistola, tambien me dieron canon (?)
Para destrier enemigos, el playto/plaito sin condición
Esta es una nueva guerra, peligra nuestra nacion
Me voi con mis compañeros de chicago y nueva york
Los angeles, san francisco, de phoenix fue lo mejor
Tambien algunos hermanos del padellon tricolor
Adios San Antonio Texas, te dejo mi devoción
Quando ya vuelva un (pante?) le cantaro otro cancion
Porque mi raza es valiente y de corazon
Show full lyrics (41 lines) ▾
#196 Luis Cacho Adios a mi novia Single · La despedida / Adios a mi novia · USA
Annotation
Not much is known about Luis Cacho, a Mariachi artist, said to have toured Vietnam on a USO-sponsored trip to entertain troops.1 He released the song "Adios a mi novia" ( "Goodbye to My Girlfriend" ) (no label, catalogue information, or location, is provided on the record) which is narrated from a soldier's perspective, who asked his girlfriend to "please don't forget me" , and he prayed to god that he would not be killed in battle.
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Lyrics
English
Don't forget me, please, when I'm gone
For it's not easy to part from a love
And if by chance I die in battle, pray hard, so that God hears your prayers
But if God grants me life
And I come back to see you, we'll make a home together, and I swear to stay with you until death and give you my heart, as I give it to God
But if God grants me life, and I come back to see you, we'll make a home together, and I swear to stay with you until death and give you my heart, as I give it to God
Spanish
No me olvidas porfavor quando ve vaya
Que no es facil a dejarse de un amor
Y se a caso yo me murir en la batalla resa mucho y que tus rezos oiga dios
Mas si dios me presta vida
Y vuelvo a ver te por haremos un hogar entre los dos y te juro estar contigo hasta la muerte y intregerte, como a dios, mi corazon
Mas si dios me presta vida, y vuelvo a ver te por haremos un hogar entre los dos y te juro estar contigo hasta la muerte y intregerte, como a dios, mi corazon
Show full lyrics (15 lines) ▾
#197 Pepe Maldonado En el frente del Viet Nam Single · En el frente del Viet Nam / Triste Navidad · Del Sur # DS-105 · USA
Credited on the record as Pepe Maldonado y su Conjunto.
Annotation
Pepe Maldonado was born in 1941 in Rio Grande City, Texas, USA. His family moved to Edinburg, Texas, USA, where he founded the recording studio and record label Del Sur.12 He also is known as Jose "Pepe" Maldonado Sr. and Pepe Maldonado y Su Conjunto. He recorded and released the song "En el frente del Viet Nam" (Del Sur # DS-105), which translates as: "On the front in Vietnam" , which looked at the soldier's perspective. The narrator expressed loneliness, missing his parents and brothers: "I am far from my parents...my brothers" . At the end of the song, the soldier looked forward to returning home to marry his sweetheart. Composed by Jose Refujio Reyes. Transcription and translation by Eric Silberberg.1
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Del Sur DS-105, gold label with palm-tree logo; "En el frente del Viet Nam" (Jose Refujio Reyes), 2:05; Pepe Maldonado y su Conjunto, "Canta: Pepe Maldonado"; Pepe Maldonado Production, Rt. 2, Box 420, Edinburg, Texas. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
I am alone and abandoned
On the front in Vietnam
I am far from my country
I am far from my home
From my parents, I am far
To my brothers, I left
Only that memory of how much I cried
I said goodbye to them all when I left my country
The enemy searches for me
They want to kill me
And I defend my life
Because I want to return
To look for my lover who I am going to marry
Spanish
Estoy solo y abandonado
En el frente del Viet Nam
Estoy lejos de mi patria
Estoy lejos de mi hogar
De mis padres, estoy lejos
A mis hermanos dejé
Solo aquel recuerdo de lo mucho que lloré
Ya les despedirme de todos cuando mi patria dejé
Los enemigos me buscan
Para quererme matar
Y yo defiendo mi vida
Porque quiero regresar
Para buscar a mi amada con quien me voy a casar
Show full lyrics (29 lines) ▾
#198 Odilio Gonzalez Cruces Boricuas en Vietnam Single · Cruces Boricuas en Vietnam / Todos de Parranda · Dial [New York] # 1016 · Puerto Rico
Credited on the record as Odilio Gonzalez con Yomo Toro, Nieves Quintero, M. Velazquez, Pedro J. Andino y Gilberto Colon.
Annotation
The "Cruces Boricuas en Vietnam" ( "Puerto Rican Crosses in Vietnam" ) (Dial Record # 1016) leaned towards the anti-war perspective, focusing on the Puerto Ricans who died in the Vietnam War. It released on New York label Dial Record, which released Puerto Rican music. This recored was released by Odilio González, born 5 March 1937 in Lares, Puerto Rico, in the in the Jibaro genre: "traditionally played by the eponymous mountain-dwelling Latin American culture that live primarily in Puerto Rico". Jíbaro is used in Puerto Rico to refer to the countryside people.1 The song was composed by Germán Rosario, who also composed and performed the song "Caidos en Vietnam", below. The narrator recalled how by "mandatory draft" (the draft) the soldiers were sent to Vietnam, who "fought desperately" . The song ended on a sad note: "for every ten Puerto Ricans, there is a cross in Vietnam" . Featured on the album Alegre Navidad (LaFlor # LP-109), below.
Sources
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Seis milonga, as printed on the label. Dial Record 1016-A, "A Product of Dial Record Corp., N.Y.", orange and cream sunburst label; "Cruces Boricuas en Vietnam" (German Rosario), seis milonga; "Canta: Odilio Gonzalez con Yomo Toro, Nieves Quintero, M. Velazquez, Pedro J. Andino y Gilberto Colon". [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Vietnam is a territory, in distant horizons
Where my brothers have gone by mandatory draft, our brave soldiers, there they arrived one day
Boys who still were not well trained, they fought desperately under a captain and the chaplain knows well
In front of the wicked reds, that for every ten Puerto Ricans, there is a cross in Vietnam
Spanish
Es Vietnam un territorio, en horizontes lejanos
Donde han ido mis hermanos por mandato obligatorio
Nuestros valientes soldados, allí arribaron un día, muchachos que todavía, no estaban bien entrenados
Pelearon desesperados, al mando de un capitán, y bien sabe el capellán, frente a los rojos inicuos, que por cada diez Boricuas hay una cruz en Vietnam
Theme: Anti-War
#199 Buck Gallagher Replacement in Viet Nam Single · Replacement in Viet Nam / Man of Great Sorrow · Duel # 1007-05 · USA
Notes
New recruit in VN, combat description. New boy, K.I.A. in first battle but fought heroically. How old? He may have been 18, but no time to get to know anyone, so unknown to his platoon. Believed in liberty, fighting for America. Pro-soldier, soldier's perspective, patriotic. Label address: 1007 17th Avenue South, Nashville, Tennessee.
Genre: ♪ Country
#200 B.K. Appleget Ballad of a Soldier Single · Ballad of a Soldier / Tilt Me Towards Tillie · Naptown # 6-4012 · USA
Notes
Ballad of a Soldier (Appleget, B.K.)
Notes
Naptown Records 6-4012-A, yellow label, "Copyright Applied For"; "Ballad of a Soldier", 3:42, B.K. Appleget, "Introducing Billy Kaye & The Kinsmen", backup vocal and keyboard arrangement by John Footman. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Genre: ♪ Country
#201 Burke County Ramblers Beauty of Quang Ngai Single · Sheriff Oaks / Beauty of Quang Ngai · Tomi # 583 · USA
Notes
Beauty of Quang Ngai (Burke County Ramblers)

Bluegrass. Morganton, North Carolina.
Soldier's tribute to a beautiful Vietnamese girl.
Fought the VC in the jungle - wounded and taken to a different location to recover.
Prayed that he would meet the girl again.
Notes
Tomi Records, Morganton, N.C., record no. 583, Side 2, matrix 20214, yellow label; "Beauty of Quang Ngai" ("Pronounced Kwang-un-guy") (Jim Fisher), Tomi BMI, time 3:01; recorded at Arlee Recording Co., distributed by Jay-Cher Ent., (615) 623-3772. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#202 Lance The Combat Pilots Test Single · The Combat Pilots Test / America, War, Crises and Peace · Tin Pan Alley # TPA 11-383 · USA
Notes
- Song-poem. Traditional pop. New York. Both sides.

- Label: Tin Pan Alley # TPA 11-383

- "Combat Pilots Test"
- Artist: Lance
- Songwriter: Evans, Dienna
- In Saigon, the new pilot arrived. Reference to Choppers (helicopter)
- Flying Chopper over Vietcong (VC) jungles
- Heard the fatal shots, into the cockpit (combat)
- He survived his first encounter. He passed the first crucial test
- Soldier's perspective, pro-soldier

- Tin Pan Alley Records TPA 11-383, 45 RPM, black-and-silver label with lyre logo, "Mfg. by Tin Pan Alley, Inc., 1650 Broadway, N.Y.C."; both sides published by Juke Box Alley (ASCAP). Side B (TPA 11-383B): "America, War, Crises and Peace" (Pargmann-Dienna), The Wilsons, time 2:16. Side A (TPA 11-383A): "The Combat Pilots Test" (Evans-Dienna), credited to "Lance", time 2:45. The B-side label carries a "Syble's Golden Oldies, Ft. Worth, Texas" shop sticker. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#203–231 Ted Studebaker Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! Album · USA
All 18 songs from this album in the archive are in this collection
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Show the full entries ▾ · Release page →
#203 Ted Studebaker Come, Go With Me Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#206 Ted Studebaker Howard Royer and Ted [1] Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#207 Ted Studebaker Howard Royer and Ted [2] Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#208 Ted Studebaker Howard Royer and Ted [3] Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#209 Ted Studebaker Howard Royer and Ted [4] Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#211 Ted Studebaker I Love the Mountains Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#212 Ted Studebaker Koho Congregational Singing Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#213 Ted Studebaker Kum Ba Yah Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#219 Ted Studebaker Silent Night (With A. Nam) Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#223 Ted Studebaker Study War No More Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#224 Ted Studebaker Ted [1] Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#225 Ted Studebaker Ted [2] Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#226 Ted Studebaker Ted [3] Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#227 Ted Studebaker Vietnamese Song (With A. Nam) Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#228 Ted Studebaker Vietnamese Song No. 2 Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#229 Ted Studebaker Vietnamese Song No. 3 Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#230 Ted Studebaker Vietnamese Song No. 4 Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#231 Ted Studebaker Wedding Music Album · Ted Studebaker in Vietnam: Life Is Good, Yea! · USA
Annotation
Ted Studebaker, born in West Milton, Ohio (near Dayton) in 1945, was a conscientious objector because of his religious beliefs. Yet, he told his draft board that he was willing to go to Vietnam in a peace / civilian role. He joined the Vietnam Christian Service as an agriculturalist, helping Vietnamese in the mountain village of Di Linh. He stayed there for two years and married Pakdy, a fellow volunteer from Hong Kong. But he died on 26 April 1971 during a Viet Cong raid on the village. While in Vietnam, Studebaker recorded himself playing guitar with villagers, and several spoken-word clips (including an interview with Howard Royer, of Messenger Magazine). The tapes were converted and produced into an LP by his brother Gary Studebaker. The back of the LP quotes Ted Studebaker as saying that:
Liner notes
"I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist. These are the sacred glories reserved for those who can kill, maim, capture, or destroy the most, and the more human lives involved, the more glorious the award seems to be. What a contradiction of values. How can a great society be so inconsistent and incoherent?"
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
GS-1000 (labels GS 1000 A / GS 1000 B), stereo, 33 1/3 RPM, plain gold labels titled "Life Is Good, Yea! Ted Studebaker in Vietnam", with no label name printed.

The front cover shows a green felt banner reading "Life Is Good Yea!" with a peace sign, a guitar, a butterfly and four dancing figures (cover banner by Virginia Hemmrick).

The back cover note tells that Ted Studebaker of West Milton, Ohio, told his draft board he could not conscientiously accept military service but was willing to go to Vietnam, went with the Vietnam Christian Service to help the mountain people of Di Linh, taking a guitar and a small tape recorder instead of weapons, married Pakdy, a volunteer from Hong Kong, and was shot dead when a Vietcong unit attacked Di Linh about a week later, on April 26, 1971; it quotes him: "I have never heard of a President pinning a medal of honor on a pacifist."

The record was produced from cassette recordings he sent home to family and friends, conceived by his brother Gary and Steve Engle; produced by Gary and Sue Studebaker, tape mastering and record production supervised by Steve Engle, tape and disc mastering at Annex Studios, Hollywood (mastering engineer John Anderson), records and cover by Custom Records, Los Angeles. Photographs show Studebaker playing guitar and villagers "Watching the rice huller and polisher".

The tracklist prints "Vietnameese Song" and lists three tracks as "Howard and Ted" after "Howard Royer and Ted". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#204 Jeb and Cousin Easy Dear John Single · Dear John / Spanish Opera · Par T # 1007 · USA
Notes
Dear John (Jeb & Cousin Easy)

Crowley, Louisiana, USA
Novelty take on Dear John letter.
Reference to Germany and Japan (WW2) - but released Vietnam-era
Notes
Par T No. 1007 (JH-392), 45 RPM, "Not for Broadcast", P. O. Box 769, Crowley, La. 70526; "Dear John", BMI, 3:10, "Recorded live at El Toro Club, Crowley, La." Pale blue label decorated with harlequin diamonds, a party mask and a party hat. Housed in a Parrot company sleeve ("A Division of London Records, Inc.") with a cartoon parrot in a top hat. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Genre: ♪ Novelty
#205 Berry Vestal Even a Soldier Can Cry Single · Even a Soldier Can Cry / Cold, Cold Heart · Dot # 45-16934 · USA
Notes
Even a Soldier Can Cry (Vestal, Berry)

Fanfare, teen pop. Soldier boy - soldier's perspective. Religion
Kiss your soldier boy goodbye, excuse my tears
No fear on the battlefield, but when I think of you I cry
Pray for me
Notes
Dot 45-16934 (MB-21580), "Promotional Record – Not for Sale", Ultra High Fidelity white label; "Even a Soldier Can Cry" (Roberts, Freed), time 2:45, Diogenes Music, ASCAP; arranged and conducted by Chuck Sagle; produced by Martin Barab, Bill Silva, Chuck Sagle, an A.T.C.B. Production; Dot Records, Inc., Hollywood, California, a division of Paramount Pictures Corporation. In a Dot company sleeve, "The Nation's Best-Selling Records", Sunset & Vine, Hollywood 28, California. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Genre: ♪ Teen Pop
#210 Coosa Valley Boys I Have Lost My Son in Viet Nam Single · I Have Lost My Son in Viet Nam / Behind These Walls of Gray · Etowah # A61121 · USA
Notes
I Have Lost My Son in Viet Nam (Coosa Valley Boys)
Notes
Etowah Records A61121, Side 1, 45 RPM, black label with silver print; "I Have Lost My Son in Viet Nam" (Thompson), time 2:30; Coosa Valley Boys listed as Grady Cornelius, Jimmy Harris, Bud Thompson and Rip Underwood. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#214 Mel Rearick A Letter to the President Single · A Letter to the President / Cincinatti, Ohio · ARM # 1001 · USA
Credited on the record as Mel Rearick (Narrator), Homer Grosz and the Country Squires Band.
Notes
Letter to the President, A (Rearick, Mel)

plight, demonstration, VC, leans towards anti-war.
Notes
ARM #1001 A, green label, RD #3 – Box 392A, Leechburg, Pa. 15656, 45 RPM, matrix 22515-2; "A Letter to the President" (James Liprando), time 3:30; Mel Rearick (narrator) with Homer Grosz and the Country Squires Band. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Lyrics
English
Precious memories, precious memories
How I long to be back home...never again to be alone
Dear Mr. President, this letter is hard to start
But sir, I'll do my very best to say what's in my heart
I've read about your problems, riots...your struggle with the budget
I know your job is endless and how weary you must be
But sir, I hope you take the time to read these lines from me
Today sir is my birthday, I'm finally twenty-one
I'll spend it in my foxhole, accompanied by my gun
The last year of my life sir I've fought the Vietcong
In battle after battle I've managed to stay strong
I've made a lot of friends sir, now many who are dead
God bless those brave young men in their final resting bed
Mr. President, I know I'm here to keep this country free
And I'll perform my dangerous duties with honour and dignity
But sir, I'm too am getting tired of jungles drenched in rain
And I long to have my mothers arms around me once again
To loaf about the sidewalk and watch the girls go by
And tease my little sister until I make her cry
Please Mr. President, please try to end this war
Return me to my home and the life I knew before
Let me see the smiling faces of the friends I once knew
Please Mr. President, each day I'll pray for you
Show full lyrics (24 lines) ▾
Genre: ♪ Country
#215 Bob White and The Southern Playboys A Message From Viet Nam Single · A Message From Viet Nam · Evana # 0003CSW · USA
Notes
Message From Viet Nam, A (White, Bob)

Country, steel guitar.
Boy's father KIA in Vietnam.
#216 Joe & Nell Society Hillbillies My Viet Nam Prayer Single · My Viet Nam Prayer / I Cry Out Your Name · Jolidy # 3302 · USA
Notes
My Viet Nam Prayer (Joe & Nell Society Hillbillies)

Country.
Plight, religion, K.I.A.
Notes
Jolidy, Saegertown, Pa.; 3302 (1285-45-3302); "My Viet Nam Prayer" (Garihan – Styborski), Rocket Music-BMI, time 2:19; vocal with instrumental accompaniment; produced by Joe Ray. Turquoise label. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#217 Wallace Haynes No Vietnam in Heaven Single · More Praying Mothers & Bible Reading Dads / No Vietnam in Heaven · Tag # TAG-011 · USA
Notes
More Praying Mothers & Bible Reading Dads (Haynes, Wallace)
No Vietnam in Heaven (Haynes, Wallace)

Country, patriotic, religion
A-side: demonstrations, divided country. Must turn to god.
B-side: narrator's friend died in Vietnam. Wrote him a letter - tell mum I'm resting, no Vietnam in heaven. Third son to be killed in action (KIA)
Notes
Tag Records, "Div. of Varsity", 1705 Church St., Nashville, Tenn., silver label; A-side TAG-011A "More Praying Mothers & Bible Reading Dads" (Wallace Haynes), 2:48; B-side TAG-011B "No Vietnam in Heaven" (Wallace Haynes), 2:26; both Gong Music BMI, "A Varsity Production". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#218 Highway Travelers Prayer for Vietnam Single · Prayer for Vietnam / I'm Satisfied · J. Lee # L-78 · USA
Notes
Prayer for Vietnam (Highway Travelers)

Gospel / soul. Raleigh, North Carolina.
Soldier K.I.A. in Vietnam
Religion.
Impact of death on mother of soldier.
#220 Willie Coffey So Long Mom Single · So Long Mom / Sons Last Call From Seattle · Nutt NS # 1 · USA
Notes
So Long Mom (Coffey, Willie)
Sons Last Call From Seattle (Coffey, Willie)

Contemporary folk, Missing in action (MIA)
A-side: soldier's perspective. I've fallen in battle.
Thinking of mum baking, saying prayers and reading the bible.
B-side: mum's perspective - misses son, MIA according to Uncle Sam.
Notes
Nutt Records NS 001, yellow label with acorn design: NS 001 A "So Long Mom" (Alma Nutt), Oleta, BMI, 3:07; NS 001 B "Sons Last Call From Seattle" (Alma Nutt), Oleta, BMI, 1:20. The B-side label carries a handwritten inscription beginning "Dear Ken – my adopted son" and signed "Love". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#221 Jim Mann A Soldier's Question Single · Apology at Bedtime / A Soldier's Question · Monument # Mn45-1175 · USA
Notes
Soldier's Question, A (Mann, Jim)

Country. Religion, soldier's perspective
Combat - echoes of gunfire. Why have I been spared?
Thankful to be living in this war I don't understand
We move out tomorrow
Notes
Monument Mn45-1175, matrix H10W-2998; "A Soldier's Question" (Kris Kristofferson), 2:27, Combine Music Corp. (BMI); "Prouced by Steve Poncio" as printed. "Monument Record Corp., Nashville, Tenn., Hollywood, Calif., U.S.A." Housed in a pale-green "monument is artistry" company sleeve. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#222 Matt Lewis and Esther A Soldier's Talk With God Single · A Soldier's Talk With God / Each Minute Seems a Million Years · Wayne # 204, 163 · USA
Notes
Soldier's Talk With God, A (Lewis, Matt & Esther)

Bluegrass. Soldier's perspective, religion.
Freemont, North Carolina, USA
I've never spoken to you god, but now I need you
From my shell hole I see you smile
Shells falling all around me, out here you're the only one I can turn to
Notes
Wayne Records, Fremont, N.C., 204,163 (SoN 107242), stereo, 45 RPM, yellow label; "A Soldier's Talk With God" (Matt Lewis), 2:10, Bill & Matt Lewis Pub. Co., BMI; "Mega Sound Production". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#232 Earl Brogan Wolfcreek Single · Don't Let 'em Wear the Midi / Wolfcreek · Delight # 1422-45-221 · USA
Notes
Wolfcreek (Brogan, Earl)

Country. Parrott, Virginia, USA.
Soldier's perspective, combat description, KIA.
Girl in Wolfcreek will be lonely. I've been called by Uncle Sam and sent to Vietnam
Buddies are all dead. The VC attacked at midday too many of them.
I was supposed to be discharged three days ago, was going to marry the girl in Wolfcreek
But I'm wounded and the VC are coming back, I'm going to die
Notes
Red Delight label, Box 206, Parrott, Va. 24132, 45-221, side number 1422-45-221-B; "Wolfcreek" (Earl Brogan), time 4:07, Lois (BMI). [From the record sleeve and labels]
Also in: ▤ Draft Songs
#233 Billy J After This Next Fight Single · Teacher Teach Me / After This Next Fight · Dessa # dR-1107 · USA
Notes
- "After This Next Fight"
- Garage rock, soldier's perspective, religion
- Please god help me I'm overseas surrounded by the enemy
- Back home my dad is a drunk - help my mum, that's all I ask

- Aka Bill Jones. Dessa Record Co. dR-1107-B, Rte. 1, Box 280, Odessa, Texas, 915-563-1679; "After This Next Fight" (B. Jones), 2:30, Dessa Music (BMI); produced by Bill Jones. [From the record sleeve and labels]
#234 Billy Stephens Rice Paddies Single · I Need Wanda / Rice Paddies · Kidd Glove # 303 · USA
Notes
- "Rice Paddies" .
- Soldier's perspective, combat, garage rock
- Captured (P.O.W.)
#235 Johnny Gatlin From Over Here in Vietnam Album · Let's Go Country With Iris Tipton, et al · Iris # UR4M-2005 · USA
Annotation
Notes
- "From Over Here in Vietnam"

- Artist: Johnny Gaitlin
- Label: Iris Records # UR4M-2005
- Songwriter: Stephenson, Tipton

- Song poem. Rare. obscure12
- Soldier's perspective, country
- Hello sweet thing, sending you a line or two
- Thinking of you over here in Vietnam
- You're always in my thoughts
- Los Angeles, CA, United States
Annotation by Justin A. Brummer
Notes
Iris Records UR4M-2005, 33⅓, monaural LP; plain yellow front cover reading "Let's Go Country With Iris Tipton, et al." with "Vocals: Johnny Gatlin, Gary Williams, Cara Stewart"; the purple side-one label titles it "Iris Tipton et al. Country Style". Publisher Blair Tipton Publishers (ASCAP), "ASCAP #2005 & 2006".

The back lists twelve songs, side one all John Stephenson–Iris Tipton songs sung by Johnny Gatlin ("Mama Caught Me in a Bar Room", "She Left Me at the Altar", "My California Baby", "From Over Here in Viet Nam", "Give Me a Bar Girl and a Glass of Wine", "I'm Gonna Love You With All My Might"), side two by Gary Williams and Cara Stewart with lyrics by Cyrus Loo, M.D., Connie Bemis, Fred Matthews and Iris Tipton.

The side-one label credits "I'm Gonna Love You With All My Might" to Cara Stewart. Iris Records, 4709 Beethoven St., Los Angeles, Ca. 90066, (213) 397-6940. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Genre: ♪ Country
Also in: ▤ Song Poems
#236 Cara Stewart A Cold and Stormy Night EP · Drop Me Love · Brosh # BR-1400 · USA
Notes
- "A Cold and Stormy Night" (track B2)

- Label: Brosh Records
- Songwriter: H. Reed & L&H Richard
- Artist: Cara Stewart

- Traditional pop, soldier's perspective
- Soldiers in a fight, thinking of his sweetheart
- He crawled along hands and knees, hiding behind trees (combat)
- Moved on him so very fast, thought he might die at last
- Bullet grazed his head, felt like he was really dead
- He awoke, the Vietcong (VC) had given up that day
- They were licked, the job was done, the victory was won
- Label address: Carpentersville, Illinois, USA

- Brosh BR-1400, side 2, shared with "How Many Have Kissed You" (Harold Reed), sung by Sonny Marcell (Sonny Marshall). Brosh Records, 14 Walnut Street, Carpentersville, Illinois (60110), BR-1400, Side #2, Master 25052, 45 R.P.M., "Band & Vocal", Brosh Music; "How Many Have Kissed You" (Harold Reed), 1:50, Sonny Marcell, and "A Cold and Stormy Night" (H. Reed & L&H Richard), 2:15, Cara Stewart. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Also in: ▤ Song Poems
#237 Wayne Moore Off to Viet-Nam Single · Off to Viet-Nam / Ballad of the White Dress Shirt · Wa-Mo # 100 · USA
Notes
Received draft papers
Notes
Label: Wa-Mo Records 100 A, 45 RPM, time 3:25, by Wayne Moore — "Off to Viet-Nam" is the A-side. [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
Also in: ▤ Draft Songs
#238 Jim Hughes A P.O.W.'s Prayer Single · A P.O.W.'s Prayer / Yesterdays Memories · Yoe-Del # 656 · USA
Notes
- P.O.W., country, draft
- probably post-war, no date, released Dallas, Texas
- help my loved one understand that I'm the same man
- I was not able to write letters while a prisoner
- I'm so lonely now
- I did not want to go to war (draft)

- Yoe-Del Records 656; published by Vampire Pub.

Label: 656-A, stereo, side 1, time 2:40; written by Lois Fararro & L. A. Housewright. [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
#239 Tommy Robichaux Christmas Time Again in Viet Nam Single · Christmas Time Again in Viet Nam / She Gave Up the Only One She Ever Loved · Cross # 103 · USA
Notes
Christmas Time Again in Viet Nam (Robichaux, Tommy)
Notes
Cross Records 103; producers Brunet and Roby; published by Faxs Pub., recorded at Faxs Recording Co.

Label: 103-A; Faxs Pub., ASCAP, 2:23; recorded at Faxs Recording Co., Inc., 814 E. Main, Houma, La. 70360; producers Roby & Brunet. [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
#240 Bobby Good Lonely G.I. Wicked Ruby / Lonely G.I.
Notes
- 1965 - teen pop, soldier's perspective
- Left my love, hope she didn't find someone new
#241 Wayne Barrett Tennessee Green Single · Tennessee Green / How Many Hearts? · Genie [Murfreesboro] # GE501 · USA
Notes
"Tennessee Green"

Country, from Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
Soldier's perspective.
Been fighting over here for Uncle Sam.
Away for so long - combat description.
It's lonely at night
Hoping to go back to Tennessee next Spring.
My girlfriend is waiting for me, by her side I'm looking forward to.
Wedding invitation is in the mail.
Notes
Genie GE501 (5049), 3:35; (B. Barrett); Bluebonnet Pub. Co., BMI; P.O. Box 651, Murfreesboro, Tenn. [From the record label]

The sleeve calls him a country boy from the hills of Middle Tennessee who travelled to many countries "including Vietnam", and the song "the dream of a Tennessee soldier on the battlefield". [From the record sleeve]
Genre: ♪ Country
#242 Ronnie Lee A Soldier's Letter Single · Crazy Heart / A Soldier's Letter · Peake # 45-002 · USA
Notes
Country, soldier's perspective, P.O.W., draft.
I'm so lonesome, want to leave this prison.
Why wars and battles? [leans anti-war?]
Only just married when I was called [draft?]
Notes
Peake Records 45-001 / 45-002 (one number per side).

Label (title printed "A Soldiers Letter"): 45 RPM, 45-002-B; written by Ronnie J. Giles; pub. by Ronnie Lee Music, BMI, 2:18; prod. by Ronnie J. Giles & James Wood; Peake Records, 741 Peake St., Abilene, Tex. [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
#243 Bruno Mikos Harmony Stars Leaving for the Front Polka Single · Honky Tonk Concertina Polka / Leaving for the Front Polka · Polka Train # PT 100 · USA
Notes
- Polka, Polish, soldier's perspective

- Polka Train Record Co. PT 100-B, 45 RPM, white label; "Leaving for the Front Polka"; Bruno Mikos Harmony Stars; produced by Adolph Kurdyla; PT Publishing Co., A. Kurdyla. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Genre: ♪ Polka
Also in: ▤ Polka songs
#244 Pitts. Harmoneers Orch. Life of a Soldier (Polka) Single · Life of a Soldier (Polka) / G.I. Joes Lament (Waltz) · Rite # 812R-3333 · USA
Notes
- A-side, polka, sung in Polish. Soldier's perspective
- B-side, waltz, sung in English, also soldier's perspective
- Released in Chicago, Illinois, USA

- Janek Productions Rite Records 812R-3333 (W4KM-3333), 45 RPM, black label; "Life of a Soldier (Polka)" (words Stan Zuchowski, music Ray Spisak), Art Rosa Pub. Co., BMI; vocal Stan Zuchowski, Pitts. Harmoneers Orch. [From the record sleeve and labels]
Genre: ♪ Polka
Also in: ▤ Polka songs
#245 Paul Rigsby Lonely Soldier Boy Single · Lonely Soldier Boy / Somebody That Nobody Knows · ARR # 1001 · USA
Notes
- Country
- Soldier missing family, home town
- Only 17 years old

- ARR Records, Record No. 1001 (HB-11), red label, 45 R.P.M.; "Lonely Soldier Boy" (Bill Rigsby). [From the record sleeve and labels]
Genre: ♪ Pop
#246 Dennis Wheeler Eighteen Candles Single · Eighteen Candles / Walk Me Home · Boblo # 210 · USA
Notes
- Soldier's perspective
- I'm off to war, remember me darling
- Rockabilly

- Boblo Record No. 210 (210-1), black label; "Eighteen Candles" (Bob Skelton), 2:02, Le Bill Music & Ju Pace Music, BMI; Dennis Wheeler; "A Bobby Smith Production". [From the record sleeve and labels]
#247 Robby Robinson A Soldier's Prayer for Peace Single · The Huckle-Buck / A Soldier's Prayer for Peace · USA
Notes
- contemporary folk, soldier's perspective
- peace message, war is hell
- unknown location and date
#248 Sheldon Buck My Buddy Joe Single · My Buddy Joe / Tucary Row · Sidewalk Cafe # None · USA
Notes
- Contemporary folk, soldier's perspective, anti-war
- Some say war is hell - but you need to be there
- Never know if you're going to die
- I wish this war will end, been there a year
- Combat - blood and tears - my buddy killed in action

- Sidewalk Cafe, "Subsidiary of Stone Shingle"; mono, 45 RPM, 2:50, BMI; (Albrecht Buck). Printed in U.S.A. [From the record label]
#249 Pastor Homer Wilson & Singers Soldiers Prayer in Viet Nam Single · The Prodigal Son / Soldiers Prayer in Viet Nam · Revival Hour # RH 1004 · USA
Credited on the record as Homer Wilson, The McRaes & Lees.
Notes
- Country gospel, soldier's perspective
- Religious anti-war perspective - against killing
- Cover of Don Reno and Benny Martin bluegrass song

- Revival Hour Records by Pastor Homer Wilson & Singers, RH 1004-B; "Jesus Saves"; (D. Reno & B. Martin). [From the record label]

Cover of Soldier's Prayer in Viet Nam by Don Reno and Benny Martin (Monument 45-912, 1965). [From Discogs]
#250 Charles Horne God and Vietnam Single · God and Vietnam / I've Become a Man in Vietnam · REM # 45-417 · USA
Notes
God and Vietnam (Horne, Charles)
I've Become a Man in Vietnam (Horne, Charles)

Country, patriotic, religion, soldier's perspective, combat
Nashville, Tennessee, USA
A-side: In a far off land in Vietnam, our boys are fighting to keep our country free. Protecting Democracy.
B-side: Dear mom - I've become a man over here, my buddy fell. Is it right or wrong? Someone has to fight for freedom
Notes
REM 45-417, 45 rpm; "God and Vietnam" 2:55, "I've Become a Man in Vietnam" 2:36. [From Rate Your Music]
Genre: ♪ Country
#251 Charles Horne I've Become a Man in Vietnam Single · God and Vietnam / I've Become a Man in Vietnam · REM # 45-417 · USA
Notes
God and Vietnam (Horne, Charles)
I've Become a Man in Vietnam (Horne, Charles)

Country, patriotic, religion, soldier's perspective, combat
Nashville, Tennessee, USA
A-side: In a far off land in Vietnam, our boys are fighting to keep our country free. Protecting Democracy.
B-side: Dear mom - I've become a man over here, my buddy fell. Is it right or wrong? Someone has to fight for freedom
Notes
REM 45-417, 45 rpm; "God and Vietnam" 2:55, "I've Become a Man in Vietnam" 2:36. [From Rate Your Music]
Genre: ♪ Country
#252 Eddie Isaacs The War in Vietnam Single · The War in Vietnam / The Other Side of Misery · Edro # 112011 · USA
Notes
War in Vietnam, The (Isaacs, Eddie)
Other Side of Misery, The (Isaacs, Eddie)

Jackson, Kentucky, USA.
Country, soldier's perspective, patriotic, mistreatment of vet
A-side: Vietnam has taken many lives from families
We prayed to get home. People marching back home - don't care what we went through.
Buddy K.I.A. in Vietnam, for freedom and peace
B-side: lonely soldier feeling blue.
Notes
Edro 112011; Vinyl 7" (45 rpm); United States. [From Rate Your Music] Edro Records, 389 Broadway Street, Jackson, Kentucky. [From the Rate Your Music label page]
Genre: ♪ Country
#253 The Easter Brothers Prayers for Viet Nam Single · Prayers for Viet Nam / God Isn't Dead · Commandment # C-45-200 · USA
Credited on the record as Easter Bros. and Green Valley Quartet.
Notes
Prayer for Viet Nam (The Easter Bros. & Green Valley Quartet)

Bluegrass, religion, soldier's perspective, anti-protest
We need more prayer mothers. World troubled by plague of war.
WW2 began - a went to war, my son and wife waved goodbye
Today - this scene takes place, we wave to our son as he goes to Vietnam.
City marchers can't help them face these guns
Notes
Published by Bumble Bee Music (BMI); pressed by Royal Plastics Corporation (1180-C-45-200). [From Discogs]

Commandment C-45-200-2 (1180-C-45-200-2-A); (Russell, James & Ed Easter); Bumble Bee Music (BMI); Carlton Haney, Box 7175, Hollins, Virginia. [From the record label]
#254 Jim Dockery Tragic Memories Single · Tragic Memories / Please, Please, Please · D And W # 348 · USA
Credited on the record as Jim Dockery and The Cascades.
Notes
Tragic Memories (Dockery, Jim)

Country, soldier's perspective. Disabled vet, PTSD, patriotic
Ashville, North Carolina, USA
Dreams at night about time in North Vietnam.
I remember the medic saying I was lucky - stepped on land mine, no legs
Sitting in wheelchair back in the US
Put my Purple Heart and medals on the shelf.
Lost my sweetheart Mary.
Came across group of protesters (demonstrations) carrying signs etc.
Lost my legs so that you could be free to march
Notes
B-side credited to Al White And The Cascades. [From Discogs]

D and W Records 348, Side 1, Asheville, N.C. [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
#255 Larry Taquin This Is How I Want to Go Single · This Is How I Want to Go / Season's of My Heart · Courtn' # 5013 · USA
Notes
Country, patriotic, anti-protest, soldier's perspective
Don't blame country, this is how I want to go, K.I.A.
It's for a good cause, right and wrong.
Folks back home who think it's in vain are stupid and wrong.
Think of us when you see the flag.
Notes
Published by Hope-A-Hit (BMI). Matrix C-255/C-526. [From Discogs]

Courtn' 5013 (C-255), 3:10; (Larry Taquin); Hope-A-Hit, BMI. [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
#256 Judy Grant Jimmy Single · Don't Take Your Love From Me / Jimmy · Bonanza Record Co. # BO 691 / BO 692 · USA
Notes
Jimmy

Traditional pop, home and soldier's perspective. A little patriotic content.
My Jimmy has been called by Uncle Sam for our country
I'll miss and love you
Soldier narrating - I have to go now and do my duty
Notes
Side numbers BO 691-A and BO 692-B. [From Discogs]

Bonanza Record Co. BO 692-B, 2:55; (J. L. Jackson); Katy Music, BMI. [From the record label]
#257 Bobby Rose American Soldier Single · American Soldier / A Long Ways From Home · Renown # 1011 · USA
Notes
Country, soldier's perspective, patriotic.
Ordered out tomorrow, to help another country.
May never see USA again, friends, girlfriend
I'll do my part, we will win
Notes
Renown 1011. [From Discogs]

Renown Records 1011, 2:12; (Bobby Rose); Renown Records & Publications, BMI; arranged and produced by Howard Rambeau. [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
#258 Rayland Young These Are the Times Single · J.F.K. Wanted Peace / These Are the Times · KB # 3009 · USA
Notes
A-side: JFK tribute
B-side: soldier's in Vietnam alive and dead, space race, Civil Rights
Communists on the rise, poverty, economic struggles
Times of hope and sorrow
Notes
KB-3009 B, 1:35; Winner Music, BMI; "The Great Sound of the Midwest"; KB Records Tru-Sound, Centralia, Illinois. [From the record label]
Genre: ♪ Country
#259 Stan & Joe A Soldier Boy (A Brave & Lonely Boy) Single · This Old World / A Soldier Boy (A Brave & Lonely Boy) · Thunder # T122 · USA
Notes
Soldier's perspective, combat. Country. Soldier off to war, so young yet a man Family misses him High mortality in battle [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#260–269 Tom Clark The Untold Story: Nam Album · Pageboy # PB-130 · USA
All 10 songs from this album in the archive are in this collection
Show the full entries ▾ · Release page →
#260 Tom Clark Their Story Could Not Be Told Album · The Untold Story: Nam · Pageboy # PB-130 · USA
Notes
Album line, contains Vietnam references. (1) (2) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#261 Tom Clark Wives Have Husbands Album · The Untold Story: Nam · Pageboy # PB-130 · USA
Notes
Album line, contains Vietnam references. (1) (2) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#262 Tom Clark Our Flag Album · The Untold Story: Nam · Pageboy # PB-130 · USA
Notes
Album line, contains Vietnam references. (1) (2) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#263 Tom Clark Is Kea Sahn Any Different Album · The Untold Story: Nam · Pageboy # PB-130 · USA
Notes
Album line, contains Vietnam references. (1) (2) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#264 Tom Clark Mama Album · The Untold Story: Nam · Pageboy # PB-130 · USA
Notes
Album line, contains Vietnam references. (1) (2) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#265 Tom Clark Sam Album · The Untold Story: Nam · Pageboy # PB-130 · USA
Notes
Album line, contains Vietnam references. (1) (2) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#266 Tom Clark Be Proud Of The Red, White & Blue Album · The Untold Story: Nam · Pageboy # PB-130 · USA
Notes
Album line, contains Vietnam references. (1) (2) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#267 Tom Clark The Unknown Soldier Album · The Untold Story: Nam · Pageboy # PB-130 · USA
Notes
Album line, contains Vietnam references. (1) (2) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#268 Tom Clark I'd Like To Trade This Palm Tree Album · The Untold Story: Nam · Pageboy # PB-130 · USA
Notes
Album line, contains Vietnam references. (1) (2) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#269 Tom Clark The Hill 881 Album · The Untold Story: Nam · Pageboy # PB-130 · USA
Notes
Album line, contains Vietnam references. (1) (2) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#270 Daniel Garzes Esperando navidad Single · Esperando navidad / Amor bendito · ZaZ # ZZ-195-A · USA
Notes
Esperando navidad (Garzes, Daniel) Tex-Mex. San Antonio, Texas, USA [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM] Composer Daniel Garzes, accompaniment Los Guadalupanos, "ZaZ Studio Production"; label at 140 Hwy 90 W., San Antonio, Texas 78237. Subjects listed: Vietnam, war, soldier, return, Christmas. [From the Strachwitz Frontera Collection]
#271 Ronnie Prophet Here I Am (In Viet Nam) Single · Here I Am (In Viet Nam) / There Is a Place · Art # 201 · USA
Notes
Country. Soldier's perspective. Released Miami, Florida [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM] ART Records, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. [From the Rate Your Music label page]
Genre: ♪ Country
#272 Paul Fighting for Our Country Single · Fighting for Our Country / Don't Bother · Scooby # A-1501 · USA
Notes
Contemporary folk. Winthrop, Massachusetts [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
#273 Gunner Carson 800 Hill Single · 800 Hill / A Silver Music Box · Ceiling # 21317 · USA
Notes
800 Hill (Carson, Gunner) Country, combat, soldiers perspective Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, USA Fighting the Viet Cong. Bring the new to mother, I died on Hill 800 [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#274 Ace Ball Homeward Bound Single · Homeward Bound (On a Hijacked Plane) / For Old Time Sake · Ace-Hi # As 215 · USA
Notes
Homeward Bound (On a Hijacked Plane) (Ball, Ace) Country, soldier's perspective. Pueblo, Colorado, USA Just out of the army after year fighting Ho Chi Minh Home soon. But the ship is turning around, heading toward Cuba Don't want to fight Castro. Reference to hippies. [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#275 Roy Bivans Each Night at Nine Single · I'm Just a Fool / Each Night at Nine · Roto # 10010 · USA
Notes
Country, soldier's perspective. Lincoln, Nebraska, USA. Thousands of miles across the sea, say a prayer and think of me at nine. Over here in Vietnam, all I can do is my best. Miss my loved one. [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#276 Alvin Billiot Dans Vietnam Single · La seul pour moi (The Only One for Me) / Dans Vietnam · AFB # 1034 · USA
Notes
Zydeco / creole / cajun music from Louisiana. Sung in French [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
#277 Daryl Goodman I'm Coming Back from Viet Nam Single · My Only True Love / I'm Coming Back From Viet Nam · Oak Leaf # OL 1012 · USA
Notes
I'm Coming Back From Viet Nam (Goodman, Daryl) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#278 Robby Roberson Paid in Full Single · The Habit / Paid in Full · O'Bee # 721 · USA
Notes
Country, soldier's perspective, K.I.A. Lonely and low morale, in the mud. Letter from girl - love is gone Four more payments for the ring, that you would wait for me while in Vietnam If killed, then paid in full. Killing in action in Vietnam [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country
#279 Gary Van Never from Viet Nam Album · Meet Gary Van · Justice # J-X-630 · USA
Notes
Never From Viet Nam (Van, Gary) [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
#280 Joe Featherston and The Country Travelers The Soldier's Last Prayer Single · The Soldier's Last Prayer / High on Top of a Mountain · Custom # 125 · USA
Notes
- Country, Tyler, Texas, soldier's perspective, K.I.A. - In combat zone, back home they are living in peace [From Justin A. Brummer notes from RYM]
Genre: ♪ Country

Archival

#281 Neil Young Letter From 'Nam 2020 · Archival · Neil Young Archives Vol. II (1972-1976) · Reprise # 093624899051 · USA
Notes
Demo recorded 15 November 1972, first released on Neil Young Archives Vol. II (1972-1976), 2020. [From Genius] [From Discogs]

Lyric theme data

Lyric content themes tagged on the songs in this collection — parent themes with their sub-themes (number of records). Click a theme for its definition and all records carrying it.

Show all 25 themes ▾

Key stats

272 songs · 238 releases · 231 artists · 207 labels · 1961–2020 · 9 more list entries have no record page yet and are not counted here

Time period
  • 1967 is the peak year, with 32 songs.
  • 1966–69 holds 100 of the 172 dated songs — more than half in four years.
  • 100 records are undated.
Artists
  • 231 artists for 272 songs. The most represented is Ted Studebaker, with 18.
  • 126 of the artists are still unidentified beyond the record: no line-up, no biography.
Songwriters
  • Songwriter gender is recorded for 114 of the 272 songs: 105 by men, six by women and three by mixed teams — women wrote 5% of those.
  • By performer: 240 men, 13 not identified, ten mixed groups and nine women (recorded for 272).
  • 291 named songwriters. The most often credited are James and Williams, with three each.
Labels
  • 183 of the 207 labels appear exactly once; Pageboy has the most, with ten.
  • 46 sit on a major or well-known imprint — Capitol, RCA Victor, Columbia, Decca, Jubilee, King, Laurie, Starday. The other 226 are on independent, regional or private labels.
  • One is a private pressing with no label at all.
  • Five 45s put both of their sides into this list.
Locations
  • 267 of the 272 are American. New York leads with 22, then Texas 21 and Tennessee 18.
  • New York City accounts for 21 records, more than any other city; Los Angeles has ten, Nashville eight.
  • Five come from outside the US: two British, one Canadian, one Mexican, one Puerto Rican.
Themes
  • By perspective: 236 home front or soldier's perspective; 23 patriotic, pro-government or anti-protest; 13 peace, protest and anti-war.
  • 84 distinct sub-themes across 272 songs.
  • Religion is the single biggest subject — 54 songs, one in five.
  • Next come K.I.A. (48), Combat (38), Patriotic (37) and Military (27).