Introduction:
In 1963, a young American singer named Little Peggy March captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with her rendition of a song titled “I Will Follow Him”. The song, a catchy and energetic pop tune with underlying themes of devotion and unwavering love, became an instant sensation, propelling the then-15-year-old March to superstardom and forever etching her name in music history.
While “I Will Follow Him” rose to prominence in March’s voice, its origins lie in the world of instrumental music. The song’s melody was originally composed by French musician Franck Pourcel (under the pseudonym J.W. Stole) and Paul Mauriat (using the pseudonym Del Roma) in 1961. Their instrumental version, titled “Chariot”, gained some traction in Europe, but it wasn’t until American songwriter Norman Gimbel penned the English lyrics for “I Will Follow Him” that the song truly found its voice.
The newly formed English version, with its lyrics depicting a young woman’s unwavering devotion to her love interest (“He’ll always be my true love / My true love / My true love / From now until forever”), resonated deeply with audiences, particularly teenagers. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and March’s youthful and enthusiastic vocals created a perfect storm for pop success.
“I Will Follow Him” was produced by Sammy Lowe at RCA Victor Studios in New York City in early 1963. Released as a single in January of that year, the song quickly climbed the charts, reaching the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in April. It remained at number one for three consecutive weeks, a remarkable feat for a debut single by such a young artist.
“I Will Follow Him” wasn’t just a domestic hit; it transcended borders and achieved international acclaim. The song topped charts in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and several other countries, solidifying March’s status as a global pop star. The song’s immense popularity even led to a Grammy nomination for Best Rock and Roll Recording in 1964, a testament to its crossover appeal and infectious energy.
The success of “I Will Follow Him” not only launched March’s career but also helped shape the landscape of 1960s pop music. The song’s focus on teenage love and unwavering devotion resonated with a generation of young listeners, paving the way for other teen idols to emerge in the coming years. “I Will Follow Him” remains a beloved classic, a reminder of a time when a young singer with a powerful voice and an infectious song could capture the hearts of millions.