“I Will Follow Him,” a timeless declaration of unwavering devotion, catapulted Little Peggy March to international stardom in 1963. Born Margaret Annemarie Battavio, the American singer, then just 15 years old, became the youngest female artist to achieve a number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100, a record she held for decades. The song, originally a French instrumental titled “Chariot” composed by Franck Pourcel and Paul Mauriat, was given English lyrics by Arthur Altman and Norman Gimbel, transforming it into the iconic pop anthem we know today.
The song’s meaning is beautifully straightforward: an unconditional promise of love and loyalty. The lyrics express a woman’s steadfast commitment to follow her beloved, no matter where he goes or what challenges they face. This simple yet powerful message of devotion resonated deeply with audiences, particularly young women, who embraced the song as an anthem of romantic idealism. The upbeat tempo, driven by a catchy melody and March’s youthful, energetic vocals, further enhanced its appeal.
“I Will Follow Him” was a massive commercial success. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 for three weeks and also achieved significant chart success internationally, reaching number one in countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. While it wasn’t nominated for major awards like a Grammy, its enduring popularity is a testament to its impact. The song’s reception was overwhelmingly positive, praised for its infectious melody, relatable lyrics, and March’s spirited performance.
Audiences connected with the song’s innocent and earnest portrayal of love, making it a staple at weddings and romantic events for generations. Even today, the song evokes a sense of nostalgic charm and remains a beloved classic, frequently covered and sampled, cementing Little Peggy March’s place in pop music history.