“I Will Follow Him,” a timeless classic of unwavering devotion, was brought to life by the powerful vocals of Little Peggy March. Born Margaret Annemarie Battavio in 1948, March was just 15 years old when she recorded the song, making her the youngest female artist to achieve a number-one hit in the US at the time, a record she held for many years. This achievement earned her the nickname “Little Peggy March.”
The song, originally a French instrumental piece titled “Chariot” by Franck Pourcel and Paul Mauriat, was adapted with English lyrics by Arthur Altman and Norman Gimbel. Released in 1963, “I Will Follow Him” soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, holding the coveted position for three weeks. It also found significant success internationally, reaching high positions in charts across Europe and Australia.
The song’s meaning is straightforward yet profound: a declaration of absolute and unconditional love. The lyrics express a woman’s commitment to follow her beloved wherever he may go, through any hardship or challenge. This message of unwavering loyalty resonated deeply with audiences, particularly young women, making it an anthem of romantic devotion.
The response to “I Will Follow Him” was overwhelmingly positive. The song’s catchy melody, combined with March’s strong, clear vocals, captivated listeners. It became an instant classic, frequently requested on radio stations and played at weddings and other romantic occasions. Critics praised March’s vocal maturity, belying her young age, and the song’s simple yet powerful message. It has cemented its place in pop culture history, being used in numerous movies. For example, the film *Sister Act.*
The song continues its legacy of love and devotion for all ages.