About the song
“I Will Follow Him” might be instantly recognizable for its catchy melody, but its path to fame is a fascinating story of transformation. This song’s origins lie not with American pop stars, but in the world of French orchestration.
In 1961, composers Franck Pourcel and Paul Mauriat, under pseudonyms, crafted a beautiful instrumental piece titled “Chariot.” This melody, released on Pourcel’s album, showcased their talent for creating elegant and evocative music. However, “Chariot” was destined for a different kind of stardom.
Across the Atlantic, the song took a remarkable turn. In 1962, French singer Petula Clark released a version with French lyrics titled “Chariot.” This version found success in Europe, topping charts in Wallonia and reaching high positions in France and Flanders. Interestingly, Clark’s English adaptation, the first recording titled “I Will Follow Him,” failed to gain traction in the UK and US.
The song’s true global explosion came in 1963 with a young American singer named Little Peggy March. Her rendition of “I Will Follow Him” featured entirely new English lyrics by Norman Gimbel. March’s powerful vocals and infectious energy propelled the song to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making her the youngest female artist to achieve this feat at the time.
“I Will Follow Him” transcended language and cultural barriers. March’s version topped charts in numerous countries, proving the song’s universal appeal. It even spawned numerous cover versions, demonstrating its versatility. Artists like Dee Dee Sharp and Ricky Nelson reinterpreted the song, showcasing its ability to adapt to different styles.
The legacy of “I Will Follow Him” extends far beyond the 1960s. The song was featured in the 1992 film “Sister Act,” introducing it to a new generation. Even today, artists continue to cover and reimagine the song, a testament to its timeless melody and relatable theme of unwavering devotion.
So, the next time you hear “I Will Follow Him,” remember its fascinating journey. From its orchestral beginnings to its chart-topping success with Little Peggy March, the song reminds us of the power of music to evolve and connect with audiences across generations and cultures.
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Lyrics
Hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart
Sweet Mary Lou
I’m so in love with you
I knew Mary Lou
We’d never part
So hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart
You passed me by one sunny day
Flashed those big brown eyes my way
And ooh I wanted you forever more
Now I’m not one that gets around
I swear my feet stuck to the ground
And though I never did meet you before
I said “Hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart
Sweet Mary Lou
I’m so in love with you”
I knew Mary Lou
We’d never part
So hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart
I saw your lips I heard your voice
Believe me I just had no choice
Wild horses couldn’t make me stay away
I thought about a moonlit night
Arms around you, good and tight
All I had to see for me to say
“Hey hey hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart
Sweet Mary Lou
I’m so in love with you”
I knew Mary Lou
We’d never part
So, hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart
So, hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart
Yes, hello Mary Lou
Goodbye heart