About the song
“Hello Mary Lou” is a song that captured the hearts of teenagers in the early 1960s and continues to resonate today. Written by American singer-songwriter Gene Pitney, the song was first recorded by Johnny Duncan in 1960 but achieved widespread fame with Ricky Nelson’s version released in 1961.
Nelson’s rendition, released as a double A-side with his chart-topping hit “Travelin’ Man,” became a smash success. It soared up the charts in the United States, peaking at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100, but truly exploded in popularity across the Atlantic. In the UK, it reached No. 2, and in countries like Norway, Denmark, and Sweden, it dominated the charts for months.
The song’s catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics about a young man pining for his lost love resonated with a generation. It perfectly captured the teenage experience of longing and heartbreak, making it an anthem for countless young people.
Beyond its immediate success, “Hello Mary Lou” boasts a rich musical legacy. The song features a now-legendary guitar solo by James Burton, inspiring generations of guitarists with its innovative style. The band backing Nelson included other notable musicians like Ray Johnson and Joe Osborn, further solidifying the track’s place in rock and roll history.
The song’s influence extends beyond its original genre. It has been covered by a diverse range of artists, from Creedence Clearwater Revival and Queen to country stars like Bobby Lewis. These reinterpretations showcase the song’s versatility and enduring appeal.
“Hello Mary Lou” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a cultural touchstone. It evokes a specific time and place in music history, reminding us of the power of pop music to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level. From its chart-topping success to its enduring influence, “Hello Mary Lou” continues to be a beloved song that transcends generations.
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Lyrics
Hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart
Sweet Mary Lou
I’m so in love with you
I knew Mary Lou
We’d never part
So hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart
You passed me by one sunny day
Flashed those big brown eyes my way
And ooh I wanted you forever more
Now I’m not one that gets around
I swear my feet stuck to the ground
And though I never did meet you before
I said “Hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart
Sweet Mary Lou
I’m so in love with you”
I knew Mary Lou
We’d never part
So hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart
I saw your lips I heard your voice
Believe me I just had no choice
Wild horses couldn’t make me stay away
I thought about a moonlit night
Arms around you, good and tight
All I had to see for me to say
“Hey hey hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart
Sweet Mary Lou
I’m so in love with you”
I knew Mary Lou
We’d never part
So, hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart
So, hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart
Yes, hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart