About the song
“Along Comes Mary” is a timeless piece of musical history that delves into both the complexities of personal introspection and the cultural backdrop of its time. Originally penned by Tandyn Almer and famously performed by the Association, this song not only marked the band’s breakthrough but also became a cultural touchstone amidst the vibrant landscape of 1960s America.
The song’s lyrics, delivered from the perspective of a young man navigating inner turmoil, resonate with themes of introspection and self-discovery. It reflects on hidden tribulations and personal flaws that are often concealed from the outside world. The protagonist finds solace and upliftment in the presence of Mary, a figure interpreted by some—including Leonard Bernstein and Almer himself—as a metaphor for marijuana. This interpretation added a layer of intrigue and controversy, contributing to the song’s mystique and popularity during an era marked by shifting social norms and countercultural movements.
Musically, “Along Comes Mary” is crafted in the Dorian mode, as highlighted by Leonard Bernstein in his analysis, showcasing its sophisticated musical composition beyond its catchy pop sensibilities. The Association’s rendition of the song, released in 1966 as their debut single, quickly ascended the charts and set the stage for their subsequent album, “And Then… Along Comes the Association.”
Beyond its original rendition, “Along Comes Mary” has been revisited and reinterpreted by numerous artists across different genres and eras. From the punk-infused rendition by the Bloodhound Gang in 1998 to covers by artists like Hugh Masekela, Cal Tjader, and George Benson, the song’s enduring appeal has transcended generations and musical boundaries. Each interpretation adds a new dimension to the song’s legacy, demonstrating its versatility and the universal themes it encapsulates.
The song’s influence also extended internationally, achieving notable chart success in Europe decades after its initial release. Its adaptability is evident in the diverse range of artists who have paid homage to it, from jazz legends to contemporary rock bands, ensuring its relevance and resonance well into the 21st century.
In conclusion, “Along Comes Mary” remains a cornerstone of American pop music, celebrated for its introspective lyrics, innovative musicality, and enduring cultural impact. It continues to captivate listeners and inspire new generations of musicians, cementing its place as a classic that transcends its origins in the tumultuous 1960s to remain a cherished piece of musical history today.
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Lyrics
Every time I think that I’m the only one who’s lonely
Someone calls on me
And every now and then I spend my time in rhyme and verse
And curse those faults in me
And then along comes Mary
And does she want to give me kicks , and be my steady chick
And give me pick of memories
Or maybe rather gather tales of all the fails and tribulations
No one ever sees
When we met I was sure out to lunch
Now my empty cup tastes as sweet as the punch
When vague desire is the fire in the eyes of chicks
Whose sickness is the games they play
And when the masquerade is played and neighbor folks make jokes
As who is most to blame today
And then along comes Mary
And does she want to set them free, and let them see reality
From where she got her name
And will they struggle much when told that such a tender touch as hers
Will make them not the same
When we met I was sure out to lunch
Now my empty cup tastes as sweet as the punch
And when the morning of the warning’s passed, the gassed
And flaccid kids are flung across the stars
The psychodramas and the traumas gone
The songs are left unsung and hung upon the scars
And then along comes Mary
And does she want to see the stains, the dead remains of all the pains
She left the night before
Or will their waking eyes reflect the lies, and make them
Realize their urgent cry for sight no more
When we met I was sure out to lunch
Now my empty cup tastes as sweet as the punch