"He's Just a Common Private Soldier" by Walter G. Fryburg (lyrics) and Cyrille L. Lamar (music) was a World War I-era song.

Background Information:

• Title: He's Just a Common Private Soldier
• Lyricist: Walter G. Fryburg
• Composer: Cyrille L. Lamar
• Publication Date: 1918
• Published by: E.T. Paull Music Co., New York
• Context: Composed during the final year of World War I, a time when patriotic songs were a major part of home front morale and public sentiment.

Themes and Message:

Like many WWI songs, this piece emphasizes patriotism, humility, and honor, but with a focus on the ordinary soldier rather than the high-ranking officers or political leaders. The song aims to elevate the image of the "common" private—someone who may not wear medals or be publicly celebrated but whose contributions are essential and heroic nonetheless.

It reflects the social values of the time, particularly the idea of selfless service, and appeals to the emotions of families with loved ones serving overseas. There's a strong undercurrent of democratic equality in the lyrics, suggesting that even the lowest-ranking soldier deserves national gratitude.

Musical Style:

Stylistically, the music is in line with other parlor songs of the era—melodic, singable, and designed to be performed on piano with voice. The cover art typically showed patriotic imagery, such as soldiers in uniform, American flags, or battle scenes, which helped stir national pride.

Historical Significance:

Though it may not have reached the iconic status of songs like Over There or Keep the Home Fires Burning, He's Just a Common Private Soldier is part of the rich tradition of WWI music that honored the everyday serviceman. It fits into a broader cultural movement that saw music as both entertainment and propaganda, aiming to boost morale and reinforce ideals of duty and sacrifice.