The Soldier From Viet Nam

Annotation

The gospel song "The Soldier From Viet Nam" (Savoy Records # 14157) is one of the earliest tracks that referenced the M.I.A. / P.O.W. issue during the Vietnam era - most of them appeared from 1968 onwards. Performed by Dorothy Norwood, born in Atlanta, Georgia, she later moved to Chicago and performed with Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, and the gospel group The Caravans. The recording sounds like it came from within a church, with the congregants clapping and singing along with the choir. It started with the story of a soldier "drafted to Vietnam" and his father (the minister of a church) being informed that "his son's missing in action". However, he soon discovered that in fact "he is a prisoner of war". The narration then switched to the first person, taking the perspective of the soldier. He told the listener that while a prison they gave him water and bread, and kept him in a dark room. The captors also "beat me and kicked me around". Throughout his ordeal he depended on god and the prayers from people back home. Thus, this song contained a strong religious element.Also featured in: • Vietnam War: Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs

Annotation by Justin A. Brummer

Annotation — US Domestic Perspective Songs

The gospel song "The Soldier From Viet Nam" (Savoy Records # 14157) is one of the earliest tracks that referenced the M.I.A. / P.O.W. issue during the Vietnam era - most of them appeared from 1968 onwards. Performed by Dorothy Norwood, born in Atlanta, Georgia, she later moved to Chicago and performed with Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, and the gospel group The Caravans. The recording sounds like it came from within a church, with the congregants clapping and singing along with the choir. It started with the story of a soldier "drafted to Vietnam" and his father (the minister of a church) being informed that "his son's missing in action". However, he soon discovered that in fact "he is a prisoner of war". The narration then switched to the first person, taking the perspective of the soldier. He told the listener that while a prison they gave him water and bread, and kept him in a dark room. The captors also "beat me and kicked me around". Throughout his ordeal he depended on god and the prayers from people back home. Thus, this song contained a strong religious element.

Annotation by Justin A. Brummer

About the artist

American gospel singer, born 29 May 1935 in Atlanta, Georgia. [Source: Wikipedia]

Themes

Soldier's Perspective · P.O.W. · M.I.A. · Religion

In collections

US Domestic Perspective Songs · Draft Songs · P.O.W. / M.I.A. Songs · Soul, Gospel, & Funk Songs