About the song
When it comes to the golden era of rock and roll, few duos have left as enduring a legacy as The Everly Brothers. Their close harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and timeless appeal have captivated audiences for generations. Among their extensive catalog, “Take a Message to Mary” stands as a shining example of their talent and the enduring power of a well-crafted pop song.
Released in 1958, “Take a Message to Mary” quickly climbed the charts, becoming one of the duo’s signature hits. The song’s simple yet evocative narrative tells the tale of a young man eager to reconnect with his lost love. With its catchy melody and memorable chorus, “Take a Message to Mary” became a staple on radio stations and jukeboxes across the country.
The Everly Brothers’ harmonies are the heart and soul of this recording. Don and Phil Everly’s voices blend seamlessly, creating a rich and textured sound that is both comforting and exhilarating. Their ability to convey a wide range of emotions through their singing is truly remarkable. In “Take a Message to Mary,” their vocals convey a sense of longing, hope, and youthful exuberance that is instantly relatable.
The song’s lyrics are equally compelling. Songwriter Felice Bryant paints a vivid picture of a young man reminiscing about a past love. The imagery is simple yet effective, and the message is universal: the yearning for connection and the pain of lost love. The lyrics are filled with heartfelt expressions of longing and desire, such as “I’ll wait here all night long / If you’ll say you’ll be mine.”
The instrumental arrangement of “Take a Message to Mary” is equally impressive. The backing band provides a solid foundation for the vocals, with tasteful guitar work, driving rhythm, and lush strings. The arrangement is understated yet effective, allowing the harmonies and lyrics to take center stage.
In conclusion, “Take a Message to Mary” by The Everly Brothers is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. The song’s beautiful harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and catchy melody have made it a beloved part of the American songbook. Whether you’re a longtime fan of The Everly Brothers or simply appreciate great pop music, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
These are the words of a frontier lad
Who lost his love when he turned bad
Take a message to Mary but don’t tell her where I am
Take a message to Mary but don’t say I’m in a jam
You can tell her I had to see the world or tell her that my ship set sail
You can say she’d better not wait for me but don’t tell her I’m in jail
Oh, don’t tell her I’m in jail
Take a message to Mary but don’t tell her what I’ve done
Please don’t mention the stagecoach and the shot from a careless gun
You can tell her I had to change my plans and cancel out the wedding day
But please don’t mention my lonely cell where I’m gonna pine away
Until my dying day
Take a message to Mary but don’t tell her all you know
My heart’s achin’ for Mary, Lord knows I miss her so
Just tell her I went to Timbuktu, tell her I’m searchin’ for gold
You can say she’d better find someone new to cherish and to hold
Oh, Lord, this cell is cold
Mary, Mary
Oh, Lord this cell is cold