The Oh Hellos is a folk rock band founded in 2011 by siblings Tyler and Maggie Heath from San Marcos, Texas. They’ve released some full-length albums:
“Through the Deep, Dark Valley” (2012), “Dear Wormwood” (2015), “Eurus” (2018), and “Notos” (2017), plus a Christmas EP and several other EPs.
While they haven’t received mainstream music awards, they’ve gained a strong following through their music, which blends folk, indie rock, and spiritual themes.
The band is known for growing from a sibling duo into a larger touring group that creates powerful live performances.
About The Song: Soldier, Poet, King
“Soldier, Poet, King” is featured on The Oh Hellos’ second full-length album, “Dear Wormwood,” released in 2015, and has become one of their most popular tracks, gaining additional recognition through social media platforms.
It is a folk song about three prophetic figures who will rise – one with a sword, one with words, and one with a crown.
Here’s a table with the relevant details for the song “Soldier, Poet, King” by The Oh Hellos:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Song Title | Soldier, Poet, King |
| Release Date | October 16, 2015 |
| Album | Dear Wormwood |
| Writers | Maggie Heath, Tyler Heath |
| Producers | Maggie Heath, Tyler Heath |
Soldier, Poet, King Lyrics By The Oh Hellos
Verse 1
There will come a soldier who carries a mighty sword
He will tear your city down, Oh-lei, oh-lai, oh, Lord
Oh-lei, oh-lai, oh-lei, oh, Lord, he will tear your city down, Oh-lei, oh-lai, oh, Lord
Verse 2
There will come a poet whose weapon is His word
He will slay you with His tongue, oh-lei, oh-lai, oh, Lord
Oh-lei, oh-lai, oh-lei, oh, Lord, he will slay you with His tongue, oh-lei, oh-lai, oh, Lord
Verse 3
There will come a ruler whose brow is laid in thorn
Smeared with oil like David’s boy, oh-lei, oh-lai, oh, Lord
Oh-lei, oh-lai, oh-lei, oh, Lord, smeared with oil like David’s boy, Oh-lei, oh-lai, oh, Lord
Oh-lei, oh-lai, oh-lei, oh, Lord, he will tear your city down, oh-lei, oh-lai, oh-oh
Outro
Oh-lei, oh-lai, oh-lei, oh-lai, oh
Oh-lei, oh-lai, oh-lei, oh-lai, oh
Oh-lei, oh-lai, oh-lei, oh-lai, oh-lei, oh-lai, oh-lei, oh-lai, oh
Live Performances Of Soldier, Poet, King By The Oh Hellos
1. The Aggie Theatre in Fort Collins, Colorado – June 16, 2016
Event Details:
The Oh Hellos performed live at The Aggie Theatre in Fort Collins, Colorado, on June 16, 2016. This concert was part of their 2016 tour, showcasing songs from their albums, including Dear Wormwood.
Performance Style:
This performance likely featured their signature ensemble format, with multiple musicians playing a mix of string instruments, percussion, and vocals to create their layered, high-energy sound.
2. The Oh Hellos – Paste Studios, New York, NY – December 15, 2016
Event Details:
The Oh Hellos performed a live session at Paste Studios in New York City on December 15, 2016.
This performance was part of Paste Magazine’s live recording series, which hosts artists in an intimate setting to record stripped-down and acoustic versions of their songs.
Performance Style:
For this session, The Oh Hellos delivered a more intimate and acoustic version of their songs, including “Soldier, Poet, King”.
The session highlights the duo’s harmonies and musical interplay, focusing on the song’s melodic and lyrical depth.
Similar Songs Like Soldier, Poet, King By The Oh Hellos
- “Like the Dawn” from “Through the Deep, Dark Valley/2012”: A tender love song comparing the awakening of love to a sunrise, blending natural imagery with emotional revelation.
- “Pale White Horse” from “Dear Wormwood/2015”: A haunting melody exploring themes of death and redemption, metaphorically using the biblical four horsemen.
- “Thus Always to Tyrants” from “Dear Wormwood/2015”: A spirited folk anthem about breaking free from oppression and finding inner strength to overcome control.
- “Caesar” from “Dear Wormwood/2015”: A powerful rebellion song questioning authority and false idols, using historical references to explore modern themes.
- “In Memoriam” from “Through The Deep Dark Valley (Tenth Anniversary Remaster)/2022”: A reflective piece about remembrance and grief, combining themes of loss and hope through folk storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Genre Of Music Do The Oh Hellos Create?
The Oh Hellos are known for their unique blend of indie folk, alternative rock, and folk storytelling, often incorporating biblical and mythological themes into their music. Rich harmonies, layered instrumentation, and powerful energy characterize their sound.
Who Are The Members Of The Oh Hellos?
The band was founded by siblings Maggie and Tyler Heath, the core members. For live performances, they are joined by a rotating ensemble of musicians to create their signature big-band sound.
What Is The Meaning Behind “Soldier, Poet, King”?
The song uses archetypal imagery to explore themes of redemption, hope, and people’s roles in shaping the world. Its uplifting tone and biblical references make it a fan favorite.
Where Can Fans Watch Live Performances Of The Oh Hellos?
Fans can watch live performances on platforms like YouTube, including sessions with Audiotree and Paste Studios and fan-recorded videos from their tours. Some official live recordings are available on their YouTube channel.
