Novelist Frederick Forsyth takes on lyricist role in song for soldiers

Novelist Frederick Forsyth is aiming for success in the music charts after writing the lyrics to a song for soldiers across the world.

The former RAF fighter pilot and author of The Day Of The Jackal has penned the words to Fallen Soldier, a lament to those who have died in service.

The single, Forsyth's first, is performed by Royal Opera House soprano Melissa and was composed and arranged by classical producer Gareth Ellis Williams, who has produced hit albums for singers Lesley Garrett and Rebecca Newman.

Forsyth said: "I wanted to write a poem to all the fallen soldiers, from every war, from every country.

"The people who, no matter what, fought for their own country.

"For the next few years so many moments in battle will be commemorated - the First World War, the Second World War, Korea, the Falklands, Iraq, Afghanistan.

"There is an endless torrent of sacrifices made by armed forces worldwide, and it felt right to write a lament now.

"It ended up a four verse poem, but I felt it should be sung, not read.

"I'm so delighted with the result, Gareth did an incredible job creating the music and Melissa was the perfect person to add the essential emotion and haunting beauty that her vocals give the track.

"It's the fitting tribute I imagined."

Fallen Soldier is released on Friday.