17 Best Songs with the Name ‘Mary’ in the Title

The name ‘Mary’ has been a popular choice for songwriters to use in the title of their songs for decades. Mary is a name that evokes a sense of tradition, simplicity, and grace. It’s a name that is associated with many positive qualities, such as kindness, love, and nurturing. The name Mary has been used in songs across different genres, from rock and pop to country and blues.

One of the most famous songs to feature the name Mary in its title is “Proud Mary” by Creedence Clearwater Revival. This iconic rock song, released in 1969, has a driving beat and catchy chorus that have made it a classic. The song’s title is a reference to a riverboat, and the lyrics tell the story of a woman named Mary who works on the boat.

Another popular song with the name Mary in its title is “Mary, Mary” by The Monkees. This upbeat pop rock song, released in 1967, celebrates the joys of being with a girl named Mary. The song’s catchy guitar riff and playful lyrics have made it a fan favorite for generations.

Overall, using the name Mary in the title of a song can add a sense of familiarity, tradition, and warmth. It’s a name that many people can relate to and can evoke a range of emotions, from joy to nostalgia to longing.

1. Proud Mary – Creedence Clearwater Revival

“Proud Mary” is a classic rock song from American band Creedence Clearwater Revival, released in 1969. The song features a driving beat, bluesy guitar riffs, and powerful vocals from lead singer John Fogerty. The lyrics celebrate the joys of traveling on the Mississippi River aboard a paddle steamer, and urge listeners to keep on rolling and exploring the world around them. “Proud Mary” became an instant classic, and remains a beloved favorite of rock fans to this day. The song showcases Creedence Clearwater Revival’s unique blend of blues, rock, and country influences, and their ability to craft timeless tunes that resonate with listeners across generations.

2. Mary Jane’s Last Dance – Tom Petty

“Mary Jane’s Last Dance” is a classic rock song by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Released in 1993, it tells the story of a man who has fallen in love with a woman named Mary Jane, but ultimately loses her. The song’s haunting melody and poignant lyrics have made it a fan favorite, with its catchy chorus and iconic guitar riff becoming instantly recognizable. The song was also famously featured in the movie “Silence of the Lambs” during a scene with Buffalo Bill, adding to its cultural impact.

3. Mary – Scissor Sisters

“Mary” is a haunting ballad from American band Scissor Sisters, released in 2004. The song features a slow, mournful melody and tender, emotional vocals from lead singer Jake Shears. The lyrics tell the story of a young man named Mary who struggles to find acceptance in a world that judges him for his differences. The song’s poignant message and beautiful melody make it a standout track on Scissor Sisters’ self-titled debut album, and a testament to the band’s ability to create music that is both touching and thought-provoking. “Mary” is a powerful and moving tribute to the importance of acceptance and compassion.

4. The Wind Cries Mary – Jimi Hendrix

“The Wind Cries Mary” is a psychedelic rock ballad by Jimi Hendrix, released in 1967. The song is named after his then-girlfriend, Kathy Mary Etchingham, and tells the story of a relationship gone wrong. The song features Hendrix’s signature guitar work, with a melodic solo that showcases his innovative use of effects pedals. The lyrics, which are open to interpretation, reflect on the pain and confusion that comes with a failed romance. The song’s ethereal and dreamlike quality, combined with Hendrix’s virtuosic guitar playing, make it a standout track in his discography.

5. Mary’s Song (Oh My My My) – Taylor Swift

“Mary’s Song (Oh My My My)” is a country pop song by Taylor Swift, released in 2006 as part of her self-titled debut album. The song tells the story of a young couple, Mary and her neighbor, who fall in love and get married despite their families’ objections. The lyrics describe the couple’s journey from childhood friends to married partners and their commitment to each other. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus have made it a fan favorite, and its themes of young love and perseverance have resonated with listeners of all ages.

6. The Thoughts of Mary Jane – Nick Drake

“The Thoughts of Mary Jane” is a haunting and introspective track from British singer-songwriter Nick Drake, released in 1969. The song features a gentle guitar melody and soft, dreamy vocals that capture the hazy, introspective mood of the lyrics. The song’s lyrics describe a world seen through the eyes of Mary Jane, a character who is lost in thought and feeling disconnected from the world around her. The song is a powerful meditation on the human experience of loneliness and the struggle to find meaning and connection in life. “The Thoughts of Mary Jane” is a poignant and reflective track that showcases Nick Drake’s talents as a songwriter and his ability to craft beautiful and emotive music.

7. Bloody Mary – Lady Gaga

“Bloody Mary” is an electropop song by Lady Gaga, released in 2011 as part of her album “Born This Way.” The song’s lyrics are open to interpretation, but it has been suggested that it deals with themes of religion and spirituality. The chorus of the song, “Bloody Mary, full of grace, can you hear me?,” alludes to the Catholic prayer to the Virgin Mary, and the song’s haunting melody and dark lyrics create a sense of mystery and intrigue. The song has been praised for its innovative production and experimental sound, which have become hallmarks of Gaga’s musical style.

8. Mary Mary – The Monkees

“Mary, Mary” is a fun and upbeat rock song from American band The Monkees, released in 1967. The song features a catchy guitar riff, energetic vocals, and a driving beat that makes it a perfect track for dancing and singing along. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is infatuated with a woman named Mary, and urges her to come out and play with him. “Mary, Mary” showcases The Monkees’ ability to craft poppy, upbeat tunes that capture the spirit of the era, and remains a beloved favorite of fans of 1960s rock and roll to this day.

9. Blind Mary – Gnarls Barkley

“Blind Mary” is a soulful ballad by Gnarls Barkley, released in 2006 as part of their debut album “St. Elsewhere”. The song features a simple arrangement of acoustic guitar, piano, and strings, creating a contemplative and introspective atmosphere. The lyrics are about a character named Blind Mary who is searching for truth and meaning in life, and the song’s melody and delivery by lead vocalist CeeLo Green evoke a sense of melancholy and longing. “Blind Mary” showcases Gnarls Barkley’s ability to craft emotionally resonant songs with a timeless quality that has continued to resonate with audiences over a decade since its release.

10. Mary Pickford (Used To Eat Roses) – Katie Melua

“Mary Pickford (Used to Eat Roses)” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad by Katie Melua, released in 2010 as part of her album “The House”. The song features a sparse arrangement of piano, strings, and Melua’s ethereal vocals, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The lyrics are about the legendary silent film actress Mary Pickford, and the references to her eating roses and living in a house made of candy evoke a sense of childlike wonder and whimsy. Melua’s delivery is understated yet emotionally resonant, making “Mary Pickford” a standout track on an album full of atmospheric and introspective songs.

11. Old Mary – The Dead Weather

“Old Mary” is a dark and moody rock song from American band The Dead Weather, released in 2010. The song features a haunting melody, distorted guitar riffs, and gritty, atmospheric vocals from lead singer Alison Mosshart. The lyrics describe the experience of addiction and the struggle to overcome it, with “Old Mary” serving as a metaphor for a dangerous drug that the narrator is trying to break free from. The song’s intense, brooding sound and emotionally charged lyrics make it a standout track on The Dead Weather’s album “Sea of Cowards,” and a testament to the band’s ability to create music that is both haunting and compelling.

12. Cross Eyed Mary – Jethro Tull

“Cross-Eyed Mary” is a hard-hitting rock song by the British progressive rock band Jethro Tull, released in 1971 as part of their album “Aqualung”. The song’s lyrics are a scathing commentary on the plight of young girls who are forced into prostitution due to poverty and societal neglect. The driving rhythm, distorted guitar riffs, and Ian Anderson’s signature flute work create a frenzied atmosphere that perfectly captures the desperation and chaos of the song’s subject matter. “Cross-Eyed Mary” has since become a fan favorite and a staple of Jethro Tull’s live performances, showcasing the band’s musical virtuosity and their commitment to tackling important social issues through their music.

13. Mary – Kings of Leon

“Mary” is a heartfelt and emotional rock ballad from American band Kings of Leon, released in 2013. The song features a simple yet powerful melody, with lead singer Caleb Followill’s vocals soaring over the understated guitar and piano accompaniment. The lyrics tell the story of a man who has lost the love of his life, Mary, and is left with feelings of regret and longing. The song’s poignant and introspective tone, combined with the band’s signature rock sound, makes it a standout track on Kings of Leon’s album “Mechanical Bull,” and a touching tribute to lost love.

14. Hail Mary – Tupac Shakur

“Hail Mary” is a powerful and intense hip-hop song by Tupac Shakur, released in 1997 as part of his album “The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory”. The song’s title alludes to the Catholic prayer to the Virgin Mary, but the lyrics are far from religious, instead focusing on themes of violence, betrayal, and redemption. Tupac’s trademark aggressive delivery and the haunting instrumental create a dark and foreboding atmosphere, reflecting the intense emotions expressed in the lyrics. “Hail Mary” has become one of Tupac’s most iconic and enduring songs, cementing his status as one of the most influential figures in hip-hop history.

15. There’s Something About Mary Song – Jonathan Richman

“There’s Something About Mary” is a fun and catchy pop song from American musician Jonathan Richman, released in 1998. The song was featured prominently in the hit comedy film of the same name, and has become a cult classic in its own right. The song features Richman’s trademark acoustic guitar sound, with playful lyrics that describe the allure of a woman named Mary. The upbeat melody and joyful energy of the song capture the lighthearted spirit of the film, and have made it a popular choice for parties, weddings, and other celebratory events.

16. Mary From The Dairy – Max Miller

“Mary from the Dairy” is a humorous and irreverent song from British comedian Max Miller, originally recorded in the 1930s. The song features Miller’s signature bawdy humor and double entendres, as he sings about a young milkmaid named Mary who catches the eye of all the men in the village. The song’s catchy melody and witty lyrics made it a popular hit during Miller’s lifetime, and it has since become a classic example of British music hall comedy. While the song’s humor may be dated by today’s standards, it remains a charming and entertaining relic of a bygone era.

17. Mary Jane – Alanis Morissette

“Mary Jane” is a hauntingly beautiful song by Alanis Morissette, released in 1995 as part of her hit album “Jagged Little Pill”. The song’s lyrics are open to interpretation, but it has been suggested that it deals with themes of addiction and self-destructive behavior. The repetitive melody and hypnotic rhythm create a sense of mesmerizing beauty, while the lyrics explore the pain and struggles of addiction. “Mary Jane” has become one of Morissette’s most beloved songs, praised for its emotional depth and raw honesty. It is a testament to the power of music to explore complex themes and emotions, and to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.