Song picture
Branded (The Last Draft)
Like
Playlist
Comment Share
Single   $1
Album   $6
Compelling country-rock ballad inspired by a disillusioned Vietnam vet suffering from PTSD in the late 70's. He was selected in the last draft to see combat. Features a nice dual Strat lead guitar riff and vocals.
alternative pop rock folk blues country political lead guitar vietnam mental health ptsd
Artist picture
Primary Site for Frederick's Rock Fusion Music & Philosophy
Primary site for Frederick's rock fusion incorporating elements of rock, electronic, folk, symphonic, world, blues, jazz, latin, and country influences, with lyrics based upon personal experience, informed spiritual humanitarianism, and political/religious independence. F. J. Serafim - Vocals, Electric/Acoustic/Synth Guitars, Synthesizers, Pianos, Bass & Production Hi Frederick, I liked the lyrical concept, the musical arrangements, musicianship and vocals... ....you are on the right track with your songwriting. Wishing you success with your music, Mike (Moody Blues co-founder Mike Pinder, 2018 R&R Hall of Famers) Song order is based upon technical considerations and not any intended sonic or creative merit. Licensing only upon direct contact with artist.
Song Info
Genre
Rock • Southern Rock
Charts
#144 in subgenre Peak #1
Charts
Peak #7
Author
Frederick Serafim
Rights
Frederick Serafim 2015
Uploaded
February 08, 2025
Track Files
MP3
MP3 8.1 MB • 320 kbps • 3:32
Lossless
WAV 35.6 MB
Story behind the song
Never having been in Vietnam, I was going to write the lyrics in the 3rd person, but decided that it was more effective in the first person. It was a very touching account he gave regarding the loss of troop morale in the midst of gruesome scenes, while anti-war protests raged back home. I assumed he was drafted in 1971 or early 72 and saw action just prior to the April '73 cessation of direct US combat involvement. The last verse was written out of my own head, reflecting what I had wished for him.
Lyrics
Back in 1971 I was young and having fun Just a red-blooded regular guy Playin' guitar in a local bar Then by 1974 I'd been drafted into the war I saw my share of blood and gore I couldn't take it anymore Woe the tales that I can tell Then by 1975 I was just barely alive Wild eyed and razor thin They threw me in the luney bin They hooked electrodes up to my brain It made me feel like a social stain Injected me with every drug I walked the streets like a zombie thug Oh the tales that I could tell Branded as a lunatic I quit the program no longer sick I hit the road to find a new life I met a girl and now she's my wife Went back to school and then found work I'm in an office with some real nice perks I still play my guitar on the side But I gotta say it's been one helluva ride Woe the tales that I can tell And now it's a beautiful summer day A breeze is blowin' through my hair...
Song Likes
Comments
Please sign up or log in to post a comment.