Introduction
While The Statler Brothers are certainly known for their country hits, “Hello Mary Lou” wasn’t one of them. The catchy tune with the memorable opening line actually has a bit more complex history.
The song’s origin goes back to songwriter Gene Pitney in 1961. Though Pitney himself achieved singing success later, “Hello Mary Lou” first hit the airwaves with a different voice. Country singer Johnny Duncan recorded it in 1960, but it failed to gain traction.
That same year, a young heartthrob named Ricky Nelson was rising to fame. Nelson’s version of “Hello Mary Lou,” released in 1961, became a major hit, reaching number nine on the Billboard charts and even topping the charts in the UK. Nelson’s rendition, featuring the distinctive guitar work of James Burton (later of Elvis Presley’s band), is likely the version most familiar to listeners today.
There’s a twist, however. There were accusations of plagiarism surrounding “Hello Mary Lou.” Similarities were noted to an earlier song, “Merry, Merry Lou,” by The Sparks, released in 1957. A settlement was eventually reached.
Despite this controversy, “Hello Mary Lou” transcended its single-artist fame. The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics about a lovestruck narrator calling out to Mary Lou have made it a favorite for cover versions by artists across genres. The Statler Brothers may not have originated the song, but their inclusion shows the enduring legacy of “Hello Mary Lou” within the vast landscape of American popular music.