Introduction
Joey+Rory: A Heartfelt Ballad with “Josephine”
“Josephine” by Joey + Rory is a poignant Civil War ballad that brings to life the intimate voice of a soldier writing home to his beloved wife. Released in 2012 as the opening track on their album His and Hers, the song was penned by Rory Feek and inspired by a collection of letters he discovered while researching the history of their 1870s farmhouse in Tennessee. These letters were written by J.W. Robison, a Confederate soldier, to his wife Josephine during the winter of 1861. Despite their grammatical imperfections, the letters conveyed a raw and poetic expression of longing and love that deeply moved Feek .
The song unfolds as a series of heartfelt letters from the front lines, capturing the soldier’s experiences of harsh conditions, illness, and the horrors of battle. He shares his fears, confesses to the killing of a young Union soldier, and expresses his enduring love for Josephine and their children. The narrative culminates in a tender farewell, urging Josephine to find happiness if he does not return .
“Josephine” stands out for its storytelling and emotional depth, showcasing Joey + Rory’s ability to convey historical narratives through music. The song’s impact extended beyond the album, inspiring a film project co-written by Rory Feek and Aaron Carnahan. The film, also titled Josephine, explores the story of a woman who disguises herself as a man to join the Confederate army in search of her missing husband. This cinematic adaptation highlights the song’s powerful narrative and its resonance with themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience during one of America’s most turbulent periods
Through “Josephine,” Joey + Rory offer a moving tribute to the personal stories of the Civil War, blending historical authenticity with heartfelt musical expression.