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Battle Cry of Freedom-Northern Version Words and Music: George F. Root This was one of Root's best songs. It was the most effective rallying song of the North. Soldiers sang it in battle, in camps and on the long march. The naturalness and spontaneity in the melody and rhythm give it those national qualities of a patriotic song. Root composed two sets of verses, one a civilian rallying song, the second a battle song. The Confederates could not resist the flavor of this spirited tune. One of their prolific composers, H. L. Schreiner, adapted Root's tune for a patriotic song with words by W. H. Barnes. 
We are springing to the call Of our brothers gone before, Shouting the battle cry of Freedom, And we'll fill the vacant ranks With a million Free men more, Shouting the battle cry of Freedom. Chorus 3. We will welcome to our numbers The loyal, true and brave, Shouting the battle cry of Freedom, And although he may be poor He shall never be a slave, Shouting the battle cry of Freedom. Chorus 4. So we 're springing to the call From the East and from the West, Shouting the battle cry of Freedom, And we'll hurl the rebel crew From the land we love the best, Shouting the battle cry of Freedom. Chorus |
Last updated: April 14, 2015