About the song
**B.W. Stevenson’s timeless ballad, “My Maria,” is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory.** Released in 1973, the song quickly captured the hearts of listeners and remains a beloved classic. Its enduring appeal lies in its evocative lyrics, melodic simplicity, and the heartfelt performance by Stevenson himself.
The song’s genesis is a testament to the serendipitous nature of the creative process. Co-written by Stevenson and Daniel Moore, “My Maria” was initially conceived by Moore, who brought a promising verse and chorus to Lindy Blaskey, a music publisher at ABC/Dunhill Records. Recognizing its potential, Blaskey enlisted Stevenson to complete the song, adding a second verse that deepened the narrative.
Produced by David Kershenbaum, “My Maria” was released as a single in August 1973 and quickly climbed the charts. It reached the top 10 on the US pop chart and spent twelve weeks in the Top 40. The song’s success was partly due to its relatable themes and Stevenson’s emotive vocal delivery.
One of the song’s most striking features is its understated arrangement. The acoustic guitar, played by Larry Carlton, provides a gentle foundation for Stevenson’s vocals, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. The simplicity of the instrumentation enhances the song’s emotional impact and creates a sense of intimacy.
“My Maria” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, most notably by Brooks & Dunn. Their country rendition, released in 1996, became a number-one hit and won a Grammy Award. The cover version introduced the song to a new generation of listeners, solidifying its status as a timeless classic.
Video
Lyrics
My Maria
Don’t you know I’ve come a long, long way?
Yeah, I been longin’ to see her when she’s around
She takes my blues away
Sweet Maria (sweet Maria)
The sunlight surely hurts my eyes
Oh, I’m a lonely dreamer on a highway in the sky
My Maria (oh, Maria, I love you, girl, oh, my Maria)
Maria (oh, Maria, I love you, girl)
Maria, I love you
Yes, you do now
Oh, my Maria
There were some blue and sorrow times
Now just my thoughts about you bring back
My peace of mind
Gypsy lady, mm-mm
You’re a miracle work for me
You set my soul free like a ship sailing on the sea
She is the sunlight when the
Skies are gray
She treats me so right, lady
Take me away (take me away)
My Maria (oh, Maria, I love you, girl, oh, my Maria)
Maria (oh, Maria, I love you, girl)
Maria, I love you
My Maria (my Maria)
Maria (my Maria, I love you)
I love you
My Maria (oh, Maria, I love you, girl, oh, my Maria)
Maria (oh, Maria, I love you, girl)
Maria, I love you
My Maria (oh, Maria, I love you, girl, oh, my Maria)
(Oh, Maria, I love you, girl)
Maria (oh, Maria, I love you, girl)
Maria, I love you
Yes, you do now