We began following Derrick “Doc” Pearson (“Doc” stands for “disciple of Christ”) when he recorded with the late, great Al Johnson a few years ago, and then continued our admiration of the producer, songwriter and guitarist when he issued his album A Family Man back in 2021.
Now as we enter the summer season of 2023, the DC-based artist has a brand new single that takes a classic song in an exciting but unexpected direction.
“Soldier Boy” was a smash hit for the Shirelles back in 1962, but few would have pictured its return as a funky march six decades later.
Doc tells us, “I’ve always thought ‘Soldier Boy’ had a simple and pleasant melody. I enjoyed listening to it a lot when I was younger. So, when I was in a season of remaking songs, I chose to redo it. I added my own funk styled rhythm and percussion with swinging horns to give it a new flavor and a marching feel, thus the new title, ‘The Soldier Boy March.’ However, after really dissecting the lyrics, I realized it is a simple love song to a soldier. My intent is that this version be used as a love song to our U.S. Military soldiers. It is my hope that on Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and various times throughout the year, the song will be used as a love song from us all, in recognition of the dedication and sacrifices of our U.S Military. We owe them this and so much more.”
With Lisa M. Frazier providing the vocals, Doc delivers his updating of the song as a full-bodied jam that will be sure to get you moving. “The Soldier Boy March” is our SoulTracks Choice Cut for June. Check it out below.
Derrick “Doc” Pearson
“The Soldier Boy March” (featuring Lisa M. Frazier)