Who Wrote "Travelin’ Soldier"?
"Travelin’ Soldier" is a song written and recorded by American country music artist Bruce Robison in 2002. The song has since become a classic, topping the charts and winning several awards. But who exactly is Bruce Robison, and what inspired him to write this powerful ballad?
Bruce Robison: The Songwriter Behind "Travelin’ Soldier"
Bruce Robison is a Texas-born country music singer-songwriter and musician. Born on October 11, 1966, Robison grew up in Bandera, Texas, a small town about an hour northwest of San Antonio. He began writing songs as a teenager, and his early influences were classic country artists like Hank Williams and Willie Nelson.
Inspiration for "Travelin’ Soldier"
The inspiration for "Travelin’ Soldier" came to Robison during a conversation with a fellow musician. The two musicians were talking about the events of 9/11, and the conversation turned to the topic of sacrifice. Robison was deeply moved by the idea that soldiers were willing to put their lives on the line for their country, and he began to write the song as a tribute to these brave men and women.
The Story Behind the Song
The song tells the story of a young woman named Cindy, who receives a letter from her friend, a soldier named Greta, telling her about the war. Greta writes about her experiences on the battlefield and her struggles to come to terms with the loss of life. The song ends with Greta’s last letter, in which she reveals that she has been killed in action.
Music Industry Response
"Travelin’ Soldier" was released as a single from Robison’s album, "My Greatest Mistake", in 2002. The song quickly gained popularity, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and staying there for two weeks. The song also reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making Robison the first artist to have a number one hit on both the country and pop charts in over a year.
Awards and Accolades
"Travelin’ Soldier" won several awards, including the Country Music Association Award for Single of the Year, the Academy of Country Music Award for Single of the Year, and the Broadcast Music Incorporated Award for Song of the Year. The song was also named one of the top country songs of the 2000s by the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers.
Cover Versions and Legacy
"Travelin’ Soldier" has been covered by several artists, including Faith Hill, Kelly Clarkson, and Dixie Chicks. The song has also been featured on several soundtracks, including the HBO series "Ozark" and the film "The Longest Ride".
Comparison Table:
| Songwriter | Title | Year Released | Genre | Chart Position |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bruce Robison | Travelin’ Soldier | 2002 | Country | #1 (Billboard Hot Country Songs), #1 (Billboard Hot 100) |
Conclusion
"Travelin’ Soldier" is a powerful ballad that has resonated with listeners around the world. Written by Bruce Robison in 2002, the song tells the story of a soldier’s sacrifice and the impact it has on those left behind. With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, the song has become a country music classic, topping the charts and winning numerous awards. Whether you’re a country music fan or simply a music lover, "Travelin’ Soldier" is a song that will touch your heart and leave a lasting impression.
