Aired on Treasure Island Oldies – May 18, 2025
It is not a stretch in realizing that the most popular female name used in song titles is Mary. Songs like “What Will Mary Say” by Johnny Mathis in 1963, “Meet Me At Midnight Mary” by Joey Powers in 1964, “Mary, In The Morning” by Al Martino in 1967, and CCR’s stirring version of “Proud Mary” in 1969 are just a few that readily come to mind.
In 1966 an American pop band formed in California made their first appearance on the Billboard Hot 100 with their “Mary in the title” song. It went Top 10, peaking at #7 position.
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Known for their lush vocal harmonies and sophisticated arrangements, they were a key part of the sunshine pop movement. Their music blended folk-rock, psychedelia, and soft pop, making them one of the most distinctive acts of their era.
The group first released a Bob Dylan composition, “One Too Many Mornings” but it failed to chart.
Teaming up with songwriter, musician and record producer, Tandyn Almer, resulted in the group’s second release – the “Mary in the title” song that went Top 10.
The song features rapid-fire lyrics and a driving, jazzy arrangement, showcasing the band’s vocal precision and instrumental skill. The song was notable for its ambiguity—many interpreted “Mary” as a reference to marijuana, though the band maintained that the lyrics could be understood in different ways.
The song’s dynamic energy, vocal layering, and unusual structure were ahead of its time and helped influence the development of pop and rock music in the late 60s.
This song by the Association continues to be celebrated for its innovative sound and cryptic lyrics – lyrics that instill wonderment until “Along Comes Mary,” this week’s Tom Locke moment in time.
YouTube listing of the song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URUd5RUAz1I
This “Moments In Time” story is yet another example of a “golden oldie” or forgotten favorite that earned its place in the evolution of Rock & Roll.
