I’m developing a new project based on the Civil War. It’s going to be a song cycle that captures the timeline, and emotions of each period of the conflict.

Appomattox Courthouse, Virginia was where Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered in April 1865.

It’s a beautiful metaphor. In my song I took the perspective of someone who was stubborn, praying, and seeking recompense.

I love using history as a starting point for compositions, and I think it’s really important for artists to reinterpret them and tell the stories in their own voice. History is the story of who we are, and these epic adventures and brilliant thoughts are so easily forgotten. Every generation needs to know the lessons of the Civil War!

How did we get there? Why did it happen? How was it resolved? What were the lessons learned?

What makes the story so compelling to me is that brothers were fighting brothers…christian ministers were denouncing each other with the same scriptures…old friends became enemies.

Appomattox is the first tune of the project, and I’ll release more as they are completed! I’m hoping to have a full show ready for the Spring of 2017.

Let me know what you think! You can send me thoughts @ facebook.com/joelwillsonmusic or  @joelpwillson

Lyrics

I fought a war
to prove I was right
I’ve seen a thousand men rush to their deaths
Only to lose the fight
This is my Appomattox
I surrender
I’m laying down my weapons now
Giving you my sword

Hold Me
Hold Me
Wrap me in your arms
Wrap me in your arms

I’m crawling to you
and the shelter of your wings
Cover me in the shadow
and the peace it brings
This is my Appomattox
I surrender
I’m laying down my weapons now
Giving you my sword

Hold Me
Hold Me
Wrap me in your arms
Wrap me in your arms