Who Wrote “Mary Did You Know” the Song?
“Mary Did You Know” is a popular Christmas song that has been recorded by numerous artists over the years. It is a beautiful and contemplative song that asks Mary, the mother of Jesus, a series of questions about her knowledge of her son’s future. The song has touched the hearts of millions around the world and has become a staple during the holiday season. But who wrote this iconic song that has become a timeless classic?
The song “Mary Did You Know” was written by Mark Lowry, a prominent American singer, songwriter, and comedian. Lowry, born on June 24, 1958, in Houston, Texas, is best known for his work as a songwriter, with “Mary Did You Know” being one of his most well-known compositions.
Lowry wrote the lyrics to “Mary Did You Know” in 1984 while he was a member of the Gaither Vocal Band, a renowned gospel music group. The inspiration for the song came from a conversation Lowry had with his co-writer, Buddy Greene, during a Christmas tour. They were discussing the miraculous nature of Jesus’ birth and the profound impact it had on Mary’s life. This conversation sparked the idea for the song, and Lowry began writing the lyrics.
The melody for “Mary Did You Know” was composed by Buddy Greene, an accomplished musician and songwriter. Greene, born on October 2, 1953, in Macon, Georgia, is known for his expertise in various musical genres, including bluegrass, country, and gospel. He collaborated with Lowry to bring the song to life by creating a beautiful and fitting melody that perfectly complements the lyrics.
Together, Lowry and Greene created a masterpiece that has resonated with people of all ages and backgrounds. The song’s thought-provoking lyrics and emotive melody have made it a favorite among artists from different genres, leading to numerous covers and renditions over the years.
Common Questions and Answers:
1. Who was the first artist to record “Mary Did You Know”?
The first artist to record “Mary Did You Know” was Michael English in 1991. His version of the song became widely popular and helped establish it as a holiday favorite.
2. Which artist’s rendition of “Mary Did You Know” is the most popular?
Pentatonix’s rendition of “Mary Did You Know” has gained immense popularity, garnering millions of views on YouTube. Their a cappella arrangement showcases their exceptional vocal talents and has become a modern classic.
3. Has “Mary Did You Know” won any awards?
Yes, the song has received several awards and nominations, including a Dove Award for Southern Gospel Recorded Song of the Year in 1992.
4. How many artists have recorded “Mary Did You Know”?
Numerous artists have recorded their own versions of “Mary Did You Know,” including CeeLo Green, Clay Aiken, Reba McEntire, and many more. The song’s popularity has led to countless renditions.
5. Has the song been translated into other languages?
Yes, “Mary Did You Know” has been translated into various languages, including Spanish, French, German, and Italian, among others, to reach a broader audience worldwide.
6. Is “Mary Did You Know” exclusively a Christmas song?
While “Mary Did You Know” is often associated with Christmas due to its lyrical content, it can be enjoyed throughout the year as a reflection on the profound nature of Jesus’ birth.
7. Are there any parodies of “Mary Did You Know”?
Yes, there have been several parodies of the song, which use the melody and structure to deliver humorous or satirical lyrics on different topics.
8. Did Mark Lowry and Buddy Greene anticipate the song’s success?
Lowry and Greene had no idea that “Mary Did You Know” would become such a beloved and widely recognized song. They wrote it purely as a reflection on the Christmas story and the impact it had on Mary.
9. Has “Mary Did You Know” been used in movies or TV shows?
Yes, the song has been featured in various movies and TV shows, including “The Bible” miniseries and the film “God’s Not Dead 2.”
10. Is “Mary Did You Know” based on biblical references?
While the lyrics of “Mary Did You Know” are not directly taken from the Bible, they are inspired by the biblical story of Jesus’ birth and the significant role played by Mary.
11. What makes “Mary Did You Know” so special?
“Mary Did You Know” stands out for its profound and thought-provoking lyrics, combined with a beautiful melody. The song captures the awe and wonder of Jesus’ birth, inviting listeners to reflect on its significance in a deeply meaningful way.