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Introduction
When you hear Joey + Rory’s “Josephine,” it feels like opening a heartfelt letter from another time. This poignant track is steeped in raw emotion and nostalgia, weaving a story that transcends generations. Set against the backdrop of war, the song captures the bittersweet longing of a soldier writing to his beloved, Josephine, from the front lines. It’s a love story wrapped in the trials of separation, resilience, and undying hope.
What makes “Josephine” truly special is its old-fashioned charm. The song doesn’t just tell a story—it invites you into a different era, where handwritten letters carried the weight of the heart. Rory Feek, with his signature knack for storytelling, crafts lyrics that are intimate yet universal. Joey’s angelic voice brings a tender vulnerability to the piece, making you feel every word as if it were written just for you.
Musically, “Josephine” is rooted in classic country traditions. Its gentle melody, simple acoustic arrangement, and soulful harmonies are reminiscent of a time when storytelling was the heartbeat of country music. The track’s timeless quality is a testament to Joey + Rory’s ability to create music that feels authentic and deeply personal.
The beauty of “Josephine” lies not only in its narrative but also in its connection to the duo’s real-life values. Known for their down-to-earth lifestyle and emphasis on love, faith, and family, Joey + Rory pour their souls into every song they create. “Josephine” reflects their commitment to crafting meaningful music that speaks to the human experience.
As you listen to the song, it’s impossible not to imagine the soldier’s longing, the miles of separation, and the hope that love can endure even in the darkest of times. It’s a song that leaves you feeling both nostalgic and deeply moved, reminding us all of the power of love and the stories that keep us connected.
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Lyrics
I’m writing this letter, my darling, from high on the hill
We’ve been marching ten days and we’re just outside Hopkinsville
It’s been snowing all night and we ain’t got no more kerosene
It’s colder than hell, hope you’re doin’ well, Josephine
There’s a fever in camp and our boys are too sick to fight
We done lost old Calvin, Beaver won’t make it through the night
I hope I heard the captain say it’s the worst he’s ever seen
I’m losin’ some weight but I’m still standin’ up straight, Josephine
Tell my children I miss ’em and wish I could kiss ’em once more
Bet they’ve grown a foot since they waved me goodbye at the door
Tell mama and daddy I’m alright and just want one more thing
I love you, I love you, I love you, Josephine
There’s three thousand union troops camped at the river below
There’s six hundreds of us, least there was two nights ago
When Erwin deserted they hung him down by the tree
God I’m so scared, keep me in your prayers, Josephine
Well the orders come down, we’ll attack tonight at nightfall
If we can stop them right here we can win this war once and for all
You know, I killed a union boy last week, bet he wasn’t fourteen
He looked just like our son, forgive me for what I’ve done, Josephine
Tell my children I miss ’em and wish I could kiss ’em once more
Bet they’ve grown a foot since they waved me goodbye at the door
Tell mama and daddy I’m alright and just want one more thing
I love you, I love you, I love you, Josephine
And lastly my darling, in case I should be killed
Don’t breathe me too long, promise me that you will
Marry another, don’t let him treat our babies mean
When he’s holding you, would you think of me too, Josephine?
Tell my babies I miss ’em and wish I could kiss ’em once more
Bet they’ve grown a foot since they waved me goodbye at the door
Tell mama and daddy I’m alright and just want one more thing
I love you, I love you, I love you, Josephine
I love you, I love you, I love you, Josephine