Does in-soil seedlings require light

My local hydroponics store sold me a compact fluorescent growlight. It ilooks like an incandescent socket, except larger, and its 125 watt.

Question - if the seed is still in the soil, does the light do any good?

My first set of seedlings did not get enough light, and thus became lanky. So I want to at least get to the vegetative cycle this time.

Thanks