About the song
“Hello Mary Lou” is a classic rock and roll song originally written by Gene Pitney, which was first recorded by Johnny Duncan in 1960 and later famously covered by Ricky Nelson at United Western Recorders Studios on March 22, 1961.
Ricky Nelson’s rendition of “Hello Mary Lou” gained significant popularity, especially as a double A-side with his chart-topping hit “Travelin’ Man,” released on Imperial Records (5741). The song peaked at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart on May 28, 1961, solidifying its place as one of Nelson’s notable hits. Internationally, the song achieved even greater success, reaching No. 2 in the United Kingdom and topping the charts in Norway and Denmark, among other European countries. Its enduring popularity also saw it climb to No. 4 in New Zealand.
Highlighted by an influential guitar solo performed by James Burton, “Hello Mary Lou” is often noted for its musical prowess and catchy melodies. The piano accompaniment, contributed by Ray Johnson, added depth to Nelson’s dynamic vocal delivery. The track showcased Nelson’s ability to blend rockabilly and pop sensibilities, capturing the essence of early 1960s rock music.
Included on Nelson’s sixth album, “Rick Is 21” (1961), “Hello Mary Lou” has remained a staple in rock and roll history, recognized for its enduring appeal and memorable instrumentation. The song’s resurgence in 1991, following its use in a TV advertisement, underscored its timeless charm, re-entering the UK Singles Chart and solidifying its status as a perennial favorite.
Despite its success, “Hello Mary Lou” was embroiled in controversy due to similarities with an earlier song titled “Merry, Merry Lou” by Cayet Mangiaracina. Originally recorded by Mangiaracina’s band, the Sparks, in 1957, the song bore resemblances that led to a plagiarism lawsuit. A settlement was eventually reached, granting Mangiaracina co-writing credit and royalties for “Hello Mary Lou,” while also acknowledging the influence of the original composition.
“Hello Mary Lou” remains a quintessential example of Ricky Nelson’s musical legacy, celebrated for its infectious melody, memorable lyrics, and enduring impact on rock and roll history.
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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