“Mama Said” by the Shirelles is a timeless classic that resonates with audiences even decades after its release in 1961. Penned by Luther Dixon and Willie Denson, this soulful track not only climbed to the top of both the pop and R&B charts but also left an indelible mark on the music industry with its heartfelt lyrics and soul-stirring melody.
The song’s success on the Billboard charts speaks volumes about its popularity during its era. “Mama Said” peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and an impressive number two on the R&B chart, cementing its place as a cross-genre hit that appealed to a wide audience. Its influence extended beyond the original recording, inspiring numerous covers by artists such as American Spring, Melanie, Dusty Springfield, and Nick Lowe, each bringing their own interpretation to this beloved classic.
One of the notable covers includes Dionne Bromfield’s rendition for her album “Introducing” in 2009, which charted at number 43 on the UK Singles Chart, showcasing the song’s enduring appeal across generations and continents.
Beyond its chart success and cover versions, “Mama Said” has also made notable appearances in popular culture. It featured prominently in the closing moments of the third season of “Orange is the New Black,” underscoring poignant moments in the narrative with its poignant lyrics and evocative melody. Additionally, it left an impression on viewers of “Adventure Time” during the episode aptly titled “Mama Said” in its seventh season.
Billboard recognized the enduring legacy of “Mama Said” by ranking it number 44 on their prestigious list of 100 Greatest Girl Group Songs of All Time, a testament to its lasting impact on the music landscape.
In summary, “Mama Said” by the Shirelles stands as more than just a hit song from the 1960s; it is a cultural touchstone that continues to captivate listeners with its timeless message and soulful sound. Through its chart achievements, diverse cover versions, and memorable appearances in popular media, this song has secured its place as a classic that transcends generations and musical genres alike.
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lyrics
Mama said there’ll be days like this
There’ll be days like this, mama said
(Mama said, mama said)
Mama said there’ll be days like this
There’ll be days like this, my mama said
(Mama said, mama said)
I went walking the other day and
Everything was going fine
Met a little boy named Billy Joe
And then I almost lost my mind
Mama said there’ll be days like this
There’ll be days like this, my mama said
(Mama said, mama said)
Mama said there’ll be days like this
There’ll be days like this, my mama said
And then she said someone would look at me
Like I’m looking at you someday
Then I might find
I don’t want you any old way but I don’t worry ‘causre
Mama said there’ll be days like this
There’ll be days like this, my mama said
(Mama said, mama said)
Mama said there’ll be days like this
There’ll be days like this, my mama said
My eyes are wide open
But all that I can see is
Chapel bells a-tollin’
For everyone but-a me but I don’t worry ’cause
Mama said there’ll be days like this
There’ll be days like this, my mama said
(Mama said, mama said)
Mama said there’ll be days like this
There’ll be days like this, my mama said
don’t you worry
(Mama said, mama said, hey, hey) don’t you worry, now
(Mama said, mama said, hey, hey)
(Mama said, mama said, hey, hey) mama said there’ll be days like this
(Mama said, mama said, hey, hey) there’ll be days like this, my mama said
(Mama said, mama said, hey, hey) mama said there’ll be days like this
(Mama said, mama said, hey, hey) there’ll be days like this, my mama said
(Mama said, mama said, hey, hey) don’t you worry
