“Hello Mary Lou” was written by Gene Pitney and first recorded by Johnny Duncan in 1960, before Ricky Nelson’s rendition at United Western Recorders Studios on March 22, 1961. Released as a double A-side with “Travelin’ Man,” Nelson’s version reached No. 9 on the Billboard music charts on May 28, 1961, showcasing its widespread appeal.

The song tells the story of love at first sight, as Mary Lou steals the narrator’s heart with simple yet memorable lyrics, mentioning her name 14 times in just a 2:17 running time. While the song’s surface is about infatuation, its deeper layers explore themes of youthful romance and the overwhelming emotions of encountering someone special.