Lyrics of 1916 by Sabaton (Motörhead Cover)

16 years old
When I went to the war
To fight for a land fit for heroes
God on my side
And a gun in my hand
Chasing my days down to zero

And I marched
And I fought
And I bled
And I died
And I never did get
Any older

But I knew at the time
That a year in the line
Was a long enough life
For a soldier

We all volunteered
And we wrote down our names
And we added two years to our ages
Eager for life
And ahead of the game
Ready for history’s pages

And we brawled
And we fought
And we whorled ’til we stood
Ten thousand shoulder to shoulder
A thirst for the Hun
We were food for the gun
And that’s what you are
When you are soldiers

I heard my friend cry
And he sank to his knees
Coughing blood as he screamed
For his mother
And I fell by his side
And that’s how we died
Clinging like kids to each other

And I lay in the mud
And the guts and the blood
And I wept as his body grew colder
And I called for my mother
And she never came
Though it wasn’t my fault
And I wasn’t to blame

And the day’s not half over
And ten thousand slain
And now there’s nobody
Remembers our names

And that’s how it is for a soldier!

Historical Background

Sabaton’s rendition of “1916” is a poignant homage to the soldiers of World War I, capturing the harrowing experiences of young men thrust into the horrors of trench warfare. Originally performed by Motörhead, this cover delves deep into the emotional and physical toll of the Great War.

Setting the Stage

The song narrates the story of a 16-year-old who enlists to fight, driven by patriotism and the allure of heroism. He and his peers, eager to serve, often falsified their ages to join the ranks. Once on the front lines, they faced the grim realities of war—enduring relentless artillery barrages, witnessing the deaths of comrades, and confronting their mortality. The lyrics poignantly depict the bond between soldiers, as they cling to each other in their final moments, highlighting the shared humanity amidst the chaos.

The Emotional Core of the Song

Sabaton’s interpretation maintains the somber tone of the original, emphasizing the futility and tragedy of war. The haunting melodies and reflective lyrics serve as a reminder of the countless young lives lost and the enduring impact of their sacrifice.

Why “1916” Matters

By covering “1916,” Sabaton pays respect to Motörhead’s legacy and brings renewed attention to the personal stories of World War I soldiers. The song stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of remembering history’s lessons.

Listen to the Song here:

About Niels

Niels believes every historical event has its own rhythm, every era its unique melody, and every story its untold song. He brings history to life, capturing the essence of pivotal moments, fascinating figures, and the cultural transformations that shaped our world. His work makes history not only informative but deeply emotional and memorable.

On this website, you’ll discover his latest songs, insights into his creative process, and curated playlists of his favorite historical tunes. Join Niels on this melodic adventure where every note tells a story, and every story inspires a song.


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