About The Song
In the realm of music, there are songs that entertain, songs that inspire, and then there are songs that transport us to a different time and place, etching themselves into the very fabric of history. Johnny Horton’s “Sink the Bismarck” falls into the latter category. This iconic ballad, released in 1960, has become an enduring testament to the bravery and resilience of the British Royal Navy during World War II.
A Song Born from War
The story behind “Sink the Bismarck” is as captivating as the song itself. In May 1941, the German battleship Bismarck, the pride of the Nazi fleet, embarked on a daring mission to disrupt Allied shipping routes in the Atlantic Ocean. The British, alerted to the Bismarck’s presence, launched a relentless pursuit, culminating in a fierce naval battle in the icy waters of the Denmark Strait.
Johnny Horton’s Powerful Delivery
Johnny Horton, an American country music singer with a knack for storytelling, captured the drama and intensity of this clash in his song. His powerful vocals and the song’s stirring melody bring to life the harrowing moments of the battle, from the opening shots to the Bismarck’s eventual sinking.
A Ballad that Resonates Through Time
“Sink the Bismarck” quickly became a global hit, topping charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Its popularity has endured over the decades, remaining a staple of classic rock radio stations and a favorite among veterans and history buffs alike.
A Legacy of Patriotism and Remembrance
More than just a catchy tune, “Sink the Bismarck” serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom during World War II. It is a song that honors the bravery of the British sailors who faced overwhelming odds and emerged victorious, and it stands as a testament to the power of music to transcend time and evoke powerful emotions.
Johnny Horton’s “Sink the Bismarck” is more than just a song; it is a historical narrative, a tribute to courage, and a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners worldwide. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to capture the essence of human struggle and triumph, making it a cherished piece of music that will undoubtedly continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
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Lyric
In May of nineteen forty-one the war had just begunThe Germans had the biggest ship, they had the biggest gunsThe Bismarck was the fastest ship that ever sailed the seaOn her deck were guns as big as steers and shells as big as treesOut of the cold and foggy night came the British ship, the HoodAnd every British seaman, he knew and understoodThey had to sink the Bismarck, the terror of the seaStop those guns as big as steers and those shells as big as treesWe’ll find the German battleship that’s makin’ such a fussWe gotta sink the Bismarck cause the world depends on usHit the decks a-runnin’ boys and spin those guns aroundWhen we find the Bismarck we gotta cut her downThe Hood found the Bismarck on that fatal dayThe Bismarck started firin’ fifteen miles away“We gotta sink the Bismarck” was the battle soundBut when the smoke had cleared away, the mighty Hood went downFor six long days and weary nights they tried to find her trailChurchill told the people “put every ship a-sail‘Cause somewhere on that ocean I know she’s gotta beWe gotta sink the Bismarck to the bottom of the sea”We’ll find that German battleship that’s makin’ such a fussWe gotta sink the Bismarck ’cause the world depends on usHit the decks a-runnin’ boys and spin those guns aroundWhen we find the Bismarck we gotta cut her downThe fog was gone the seventh day and they saw the mornin’ sunTen hours away from homeland the Bismarck made its runThe admiral of the British fleet said “turn those bows aroundWe found that German battleship and we’re gonna cut her down”The British guns were aimed and the shells were comin’ fastThe first shell hit the Bismarck, they knew she couldn’t lastThat mighty German battleship is just a memory“Sink the Bismarck” was the battle cry that shook the seven seasWe found that German battleship been makin’ such a fussWe had to sink the Bismarck ’cause the world depends on usWe hit the deck a-runnin’ and we spun those guns aroundYeah, we found the mighty Bismarck and prepared to cut her downWe found that German battleship been makin’ such a fussWe had to sink the Bismarck ’cause the world depends on usWe hit the deck a-runnin’ and we spun those guns aroundWe found the mighty Bismarck and then we cut her down