Video
About The Song
Background
“Carrie Anne,” a quintessential piece of 1960s pop rock, was crafted by the English band The Hollies. Released in 1967, the song quickly ascended the charts, becoming a global hit. It was penned by the band’s core songwriting trio: Allan Clarke, Graham Nash, and Tony Hicks. This era marked a prolific period for The Hollies, with a string of successful singles that solidified their status as one of the leading bands of the British Invasion.
The song’s genesis is somewhat shrouded in mystery, as the band members have provided varying accounts of its inspiration. However, it’s generally accepted that “Carrie Anne” is a fictional character, a device employed by the songwriters to explore themes of youthful longing, unrequited love, and the bittersweet nature of teenage romance.
Musical Style
“Carrie Anne” is a prime example of the Merseybeat sound, a style of music that emerged from Liverpool in the early 1960s. Characterized by its infectious rhythms, catchy melodies, and clean guitar work, Merseybeat was a precursor to the British Invasion. The Hollies, with their impeccable harmonies and polished sound, perfected this style.
The song’s arrangement is relatively simple, focusing on the core elements of melody, rhythm, and harmony. The driving beat, provided by the drums and bass, propels the song forward, while the guitars create a shimmering, melodic backdrop. The vocal harmonies, a hallmark of The Hollies’ sound, are particularly prominent in the chorus, adding depth and richness to the arrangement.
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
Doo doo doo-doo doo doo doo-doo doo
Doo doo doo-doo doo doo doo-doo doo
Hey, Carrie Anne
Hey, Carrie Anne
When we were at school our games were simple
I played the janitor, you played the monitor
Then you played with older boys and prefects
What’s the attraction in what they’re doing
[Chorus:]
Hey Carrie Anne
What’s your game now, can anybody play
Hey Carrie Anne
What’s your game now, can anybody play
You were always something special to me
Quite independent, never caring
You lost your charm as you were aging
Where is your magic disappearing
[Chorus]
You’re so, so like a woman to me
Oh like a woman to me
So, so like a woman to me
Like a woman to me
[Chorus]
People live and learn but you’re still learning
You use my mind and I’ll be your teacher
When the lesson’s over you’ll be with me
Then I’ll hear the other people saying
[Chorus]
Carrie Anne, Carrie Anne, Carrie Anne, Carrie Anne