The Marvelettes "Please Mr. Postman"
The Marvelettes' "Please Mr. Postman" was released in 1961 and became one of the defining hits of the Motown era. Originally a country song, this track was reworked by The Marvelettes, incorporating elements of pop and soul, giving it a fresh sound. At the time of its release, the group was relatively unknown, but this song quickly propelled them to stardom, influencing the course of their career. Notably, the track made history by becoming the first song by a female vocal group to reach No.1 on the Billboard charts in America, and it remains beloved by music fans to this day.
Song Overview
"Please Mr. Postman" is a song that centers on the themes of longing and anticipation in love, with its simple lyrics and melody resonating deeply with listeners. The song's narrative revolves around a woman eagerly waiting for a letter and urging the mailman to hurry up with its delivery. This relatable storyline struck a chord with audiences of the time, successfully conveying the bittersweet emotions embedded in the lyrics.
In the Marvelettes' version, their distinctive harmonies and soulful vocal delivery brought the song to life, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who heard it. The sound features the upbeat rhythms and polished orchestration characteristic of Motown, with the chorus standing out as particularly memorable.
The song's melody is simple and catchy, and its accessibility helped it connect with a wide audience. From its release, it quickly became a hit and remains a classic, frequently covered by various artists.
Songwriters and Producers
"Please Mr. Postman" was written by Georgia Dobbins, William Garrett, Freddie Gorman, Brian Holland, Robert Bateman, and Brian Burt. These songwriters and composers were highly respected in the music industry at the time, with Brian Holland and Robert Bateman, known for their work as part of the songwriting and production team Holland-Dozier-Holland, being instrumental in shaping the Motown sound. Their influence was a key factor in the success of this song.
The production was handled by the legendary Motown producer Brian Holland, whose refined production style helped shape the distinct Motown sound. His ability to balance rhythm and melody created a dynamic quality in the song that made it stand out. Holland's influence on the Motown artists of the time was profound, and this track is a testament to his impact.
Charts
"Please Mr. Postman" was an immediate success upon its release, charting high and making a significant impact on the music scene. The track reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking a major milestone in Motown's history and solidifying The Marvelettes' place in the spotlight. Its success paved the way for other Motown acts and remains an enduring classic in the genre.
Music Video
As the song was released in 1961, music videos, as we know them today, were not yet a common format. However, performances of "Please Mr. Postman" were frequently featured on television shows, helping the song reach an even wider audience. These performances highlighted the energetic and captivating presence of The Marvelettes, showcasing their chemistry and stage appeal. The song's visuals, coupled with its infectious melody and relatable theme, helped it become one of Motown's iconic hits.
The Marvelettes - Please Mister Postman
The Beatles "Please Mr. Postman"
The Beatles' "Please Mr. Postman" was featured on their album With The Beatles, released in 1963. This track is a cover of The Marvelettes' Motown hit, reimagined with The Beatles' energetic arrangement and harmonies, adding a fresh charm to the original.
Carpenters "Please Mr. Postman"
The Carpenters' "Please Mr. Postman" was released in 1974 and became a Billboard Hot 100 number-one hit. This song is a cover of The Marvelettes' 1961 hit and features the Carpenters' signature soft harmonies and polished arrangement, adding a fresh charm to the original.
