Jesse Tyler Frewerd’s Anthem to Those Who Fought and Overcame Adversity

In the realm of country classics, songs about soldiers returning home are not uncommon. Often, they serve as celebrations or expressions of relief after escaping the horrors of war. However, Jesse Tyler Frewerd demonstrates a remarkable ability to encapsulate the complexity of human emotions and showcase his skillful songwriting in a song that delves into the heartache experienced by these silent heroes.

Jesse Frewerd is an American singer and songwriter hailing from Milwaukee, WI. After his deployment in Iraq in 2004, this Army Veteran discovered his passion for music as a means to process and heal from the challenges he faced during his years of service. In 2017, he had the opportunity to collaborate with other songwriters in Nashville, the heart of country music, which marked a turning point in his musical journey and laid the foundation for his career.

Jesse created "Soldier Coming Home" Inspired by his own experiences. The song reflects his survival from a homemade bomb explosion, the difficulties he encountered during his post-military transition, and the overwhelming joy of holding his daughter for the first time. By sharing these stories during a collaborative songwriting session, his experiences transformed into a powerful anthem of resilience and endurance.

The song begins with a gentle guitar melody that sets the stage for a tale of homecoming. The description of a "small-town parade", media coverage on the "evening news", and the warmth of the community create a pleasant backdrop. However, even as the hero holds his baby girl in his arms, there is a tinge of sadness in the singer's voice. He confesses, "I can't forget these things I've done." The memories of war continue to haunt him, even in the comfort of his hometown.

The emotional journey unfolds further as the chorus declares, "So I fake a smile, put on a front." This revelation exposes the celebration and apparent triumph as a façade behind which the singer can hide. These lines convey the central theme of the song, which is the necessity for him to play a role, an actor in his own life.

"Soldier Coming Home" exemplifies the power of country music to capture the essence of human experiences. It pays homage to the sacrifices made by those who fought to preserve freedom, celebrates their return and reunion with loved ones, and most importantly, portrays them as human beings. The song allows them to confront the overwhelming emotions associated with leaving behind the horrors of war and embarking on their healing journey.

STAY IN TOUCH WITH JESSE FREWERD ON INSTAGRAM