Introduction
“Hello Mary Lou” stands as one of Ricky Nelson’s most enduring hits, capturing the essence of early 1960s rock and roll with its upbeat tempo and heartfelt lyrics. Written by Gene Pitney, the song was first recorded by country singer Johnny Duncan in 1960 but failed to chart. Nelson’s rendition, recorded on March 22, 1961, at United Western Recorders Studios, was released as the B-side to his chart-topping single “Travelin’ Man” .
Despite being a B-side, “Hello Mary Lou” achieved significant success on its own, reaching No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and climbing to No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s popularity extended across Europe, topping charts in countries like Norway and Denmark .
The track is notable for its distinctive guitar solo by James Burton, whose work influenced future guitarists, including Queen’s Brian May. The recording also featured Ray Johnson on piano, Joe Osborn on bass, and Ritchie Frost on drums, contributing to its polished rockabilly sound .
“Hello Mary Lou” was included in Nelson’s sixth studio album, “Rick Is 21,” marking a significant point in his transition from teen idol to mature artist. The song’s enduring appeal is evident in its numerous covers by artists such as Creedence Clearwater Revival, Led Zeppelin, and Queen, showcasing its influence across different music genres and generations .
The song’s legacy was further cemented when it was performed on Nelson’s family television show, “The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet,” providing it with substantial national exposure .
“Hello Mary Lou” remains a testament to Ricky Nelson’s impact on rock and roll, reflecting the genre’s evolution and the artist’s versatility.
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Lyrics: Hello Mary Lou
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 oo I wanted you forever more
Now I’m not one that gets around
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
My arms about good an’ tight
That’s 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