If you love classic songs, then you must have heard of “Billy Don’t Be a Hero.” This song is a timeless masterpiece that has been covered by various artists over the years. It was first released in 1974 by Paper Lace and was later covered by Bo Donaldson and The Heywoods. In this article, we will be taking a closer look at the lyrics of this iconic song.
The Story Behind the Song
The song tells the story of a woman named Marie, who is in love with a soldier named Billy. Billy is about to go to war, and Marie begs him not to go. She tells him that she doesn’t want him to be a hero, but Billy is determined to fight for his country. The song ends with the devastating news that Billy has been killed in action.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “Billy Don’t Be a Hero” are simple yet powerful. They capture the emotions of a woman who is torn between her love for a man and her fear of losing him. The first verse sets the scene:
“The marchin’ band came down along Main Street
The soldier-blues fell in behind
I looked across and there I saw Billy
Waiting to go and join the line.”
In the chorus, Marie pleads with Billy not to go to war:
“Billy, don’t be a hero, don’t be a fool with your life
Billy, don’t be a hero, come back and make me your wife.”
The second verse describes Marie’s desperation:
“The soldiers came to town
For the sound of gun
Two by two they were
Laid down
Oh, Marie she
Was waiting alone
Still waiting
For the
Sound of gun.”
The Significance of the Song
“Billy Don’t Be a Hero” is a poignant reminder of the human cost of war. It captures the heartbreak of losing a loved one and the pain of waiting for news of their fate. The song became popular during the Vietnam War, and it struck a chord with many people who were opposed to the conflict.
The song has been covered by various artists over the years, including Cilla Black, The Osmonds, and Cher. Each artist brings their own interpretation to the song, but the message remains the same – war is a tragedy that affects us all.
Conclusion
“Billy Don’t Be a Hero” is a classic song that has stood the test of time. Its simple yet powerful lyrics continue to resonate with people today, reminding us of the sacrifices that soldiers and their loved ones make for their country. If you haven’t heard this song before, take a moment to listen to it and appreciate its timeless beauty.
