Roger Whittaker, "I Don't Believe in If Anymore"

Ketone Cop

Jedi Master
I did a forum search and was surprised that Roger Whittaker didn't show up on the music thread! He was a very accomplished Canadian folk singer in the 60's and 70's who had a tremendous baritone voice and incredible whistling ability.

There was one song he did in particular that I have listened to over and over again since it was first released in 1975. I distinctly remember in the early mornings when my mom was up she turned on the radio before getting my brother and I ready for school, and I would pause by the back door on my way out and wait to leave until the song was over (it was a hit and played at the same time each morning for months). Little did I realize what the lyrics were truly about at that time, but I felt the power of the song even then.

This song is one of the most powerful anti-war songs ever written. And the power of Roger's voice and intonations remain forever engraved upon my being. It is one of the few songs I listen to that can still bring tears to my eyes, every time.

Here is the song:


And here are the lyrics:

Now if you load your rifle right
And if you fix your bayonet so
And if you kill that man, my friend
The one we call the foe
And if you do it often, lad
And if you do it right
You'll be a hero overnight
You'll save your country from her plight
Remember God is always right
If you survive to see the sight
A friend now greeting foe

No you won't believe in If anymore
It's an illusion
It's an illusion
No you won't believe in If anymore
If is for children
If is for children
Building daydreams

If I knew then what I know now
(I thought I did you know somehow)
If I could have the time again
I'd take the sunshine leave the rain
If only time would trickle slow
Like rain that melts the fallen snow
If only Lord if only
If only Lord if only

Oh I don't believe in If anymore
It's an illusion
It's an illusion
No I don't believe in If anymore
If is for children
If is for children
Building daydreams

No I don't believe in If anymore
It's an illusion
It's an illusion
No I don't believe in If anymore
If is for children
If is for children
Building daydreams
 
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