Abraham, Martin and John

Dion

About Abraham, Martin and John

"Abraham, Martin and John" is a 1968 song written by Dick Holler and first recorded by Dion. It is a tribute to the memory of four assassinated Americans, all icons of social change: Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., John F. Kennedy, and Robert F. Kennedy. It was written in response to the assassination of King and that of Robert Kennedy in April and June 1968, respectively.


Year:
2011
3:21
63 
#1

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Has anybody here seen my old friend Abraham?
Can you tell me where he's gone?
He freed a lot of people
But it seems the good die young
But I just looked around and he's gone

Has anybody here seen my old friend John?
Can you tell me where he's gone?
He freed a lot of people
But it seems the good die young
But I just looked around and he's gone

Has anybody here seen my old friend Martin?
Can you tell me where he's gone?
He freed a lot of people
But it seems the good die young
But I just looked around and he's gone

Didn't you love the things that they stood for?
Didn't they try to find some good for you and me?
And we'll be free
Someday soon, it's gonna be
One day

Has anybody here seen my old friend Bobby?
Can you tell me where he's gone?
I thought I saw him walkin'
Up over the hill
With Abraham, Martin and John

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Dion

Dion is a highly influential American singer and songwriter who rose to fame in the late 1950s and early 1960s. He was part of the doo-wop group Dion and the Belmonts before pursuing a successful solo career. Known for his expressive, soulful voice and catchy melodies, Dion's music spans various genres, including doo-wop, rock and roll, pop, folk, and blues. Some of his best-known songs include "Runaround Sue" and "The Wanderer." He continues to perform and record music to this day. more »

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Written by: Richard Holler

Lyrics © REGENT MUSIC CORPORATION

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Release Date
The song "Abraham, Martin and John" was released by Dion in the year 1968, more than ten years after he began his musical career.
Theme
The song "Abraham, Martin and John" is a tribute to the memory of four iconic American figures - President Abraham Lincoln, Reverend Martin Luther King Jr., President John F. Kennedy, and his brother Robert Kennedy - all of whom were assassinated.
Chart Success
Upon its release, Dion's "Abraham, Martin and John" quickly climbed the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US, reaching the fourth spot.
Writer
The emotionally-charged lyrics of "Abraham, Martin and John" were written by Dick Holler.
Cover Versions
Numerous artists have covered the song over the years, including Marvin Gaye, Bob Dylan, Andy Williams, Harry Belafonte, and Smokey Robinson.
Award Recognition
Dion's recording of the song received a nomination at the Grammy Awards in 1969 for "Best Male Pop Vocal Performance".
Commercial Success
"Abraham, Martin and John" also proved to be a commercial success for Dion, selling over a million copies and therefore being awarded a gold record.
Critic Review
The song has always received positive reviews from critics who praised its message and emotional depth. It is considered a classic in the genre of heartfelt, socially-conscious music.
Social Impact
The song comes out at a time when the US was dealing with civil rights struggles and high-profile assassinations which affected the nation's morale. It served as a reminder of great leaders who sacrificed their lives for the betterment of society.
Legacy
The longevity of "Abraham, Martin and John" is clear in its relevance even today, it continues to be used as a powerful commentary in times of social unrest. The enduring power of its message is a testament to the songwriting prowess of Dick Holler and Dion's soulful interpretation.

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    Abraham, Martin and John

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1968

    Billboard #4


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