Download Instrumental Ricky Nelson never sounded better. However, some of you out there may not have a clue who Ricky Nelson is. You’ll have to go back to the late 1950’s and early 60’s (best time ever for music) and get acquainted with a TV program called The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet. Go ahead – google it. I’ll wait…
The program ran for 14 straight seasons with 30 episodes per season – all written by the dad, Ozzie Nelson. It has the distinction of being the longest-running live American sitcom and served as the springboard for the youngest son’s music career – that would be Ricky. Ozzie knew his boy had talent, so he began writing situations into the show that highlighted Ricky’s singing. He first performed on an episode in 1957 – covering Fats Domino’s hit, “I’m Walkin”. That’s all it took to make him a bona fide teen idol…. much like me. Yeah… right.
“Hello, Mary Lou” was written by Gene Pitney (of “Town Without Pity” fame) and first recorded in 1960 by Johnny Duncan (don’t know who he is). Our boy Ricky recorded it the following year and had a pretty decent hit with it. In the United States, this song was on the B-side of the record with a little tune called “Travellin’ Man” as the main feature. However, in the United Kingdom, “Mary Lou” was released on the A-side, with “Travellin’ Man” taking a back seat. I always knew the Brits were smarter than us, except for the way they spell “traveling”. You’ll notice my arrangement is a bit on the “country” side, but it still works, I think.
My only problem with Ricky Nelson is I always thought he was gonna nod off at any minute. Oh, I know… that “sleepy-eyed” look is supposed to be really sexy, but a little energy couldn’t hurt. Wake up, Rick! And say hello to Mary Lou…
I think he’s shaking his right leg on the link below to stay awake:
Stageworthy Backing Tracks by Dave Zobrist 