“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Please Mr. Postman” is a classic song by The Marvelettes, released in 1961. As one of the defining tracks of the early Motown sound, it holds the distinction of being the first Motown song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics captured the anxieties and hopes of waiting for a letter, resonating with audiences across the globe. Its success laid the foundation for Motown’s future hits and helped establish The Marvelettes as a significant force in the music industry during the 1960s.
The song is notable for its infectious rhythm and relatable theme, portraying the anticipation and longing for news from a distant loved one. It became a cultural touchstone, influencing numerous artists and being covered by a variety of musicians over the years, further cementing its place in music history.
About The Composition
- Title: Please Mr Postman
- Composer: Georgia Dobbins, William Garrett, Freddie Gorman, Brian Holland, Robert Bateman
- Premiere Date: 1961
- Album/Opus/Collection: Please Mr. Postman
- Genre: Pop, R&B, Soul
Background
“Please Mr. Postman” was conceived during a time when communication was not instantaneous, and the arrival of a letter was an event filled with anticipation. The song was co-written by Georgia Dobbins, a member of The Marvelettes, along with several other songwriters including Brian Holland, who would later become a key figure in the Motown songwriting and production team. The inspiration for the song came from a blues song by The Marvelettes’ friend William Garrett. The Marvelettes were a young group of high school friends who auditioned for Motown with the song, leading to their first recording session and subsequent success.
Musical Style
“Please Mr. Postman” is characterized by its upbeat tempo and catchy melody, which are hallmarks of the Motown sound. The song features a strong backbeat, vocal harmonies, and a call-and-response structure that adds to its engaging and dynamic feel. The instrumentation includes a prominent use of drums and bass, which provides a solid foundation for the vocal lines.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrical theme of “Please Mr. Postman” revolves around the anticipation and longing for a letter from a distant lover. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and hope, as the narrator implores the postman to deliver the awaited news. This theme of waiting and yearning resonated deeply with listeners, contributing to the song’s widespread appeal.
Performance History
The Marvelettes’ original version of “Please Mr. Postman” was a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1961. The song has been covered by several notable artists, including The Beatles, who included their version on the 1963 album “With the Beatles.” The Carpenters also released a popular rendition in 1975, which became a number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. These performances have kept the song alive in the public consciousness and introduced it to new generations of listeners.
Cultural Impact
“Please Mr. Postman” has had a significant cultural impact, being featured in various films, commercials, and TV shows. Its memorable melody and relatable theme have made it a favorite for covers and reinterpretations. The song’s presence in media has helped sustain its popularity and reaffirm its status as a classic hit.
Legacy
Today, “Please Mr. Postman” continues to be celebrated as a quintessential Motown track. Its enduring appeal lies in its universal theme and catchy rhythm, which have allowed it to transcend its original era. The song’s success helped pave the way for the Motown sound to dominate the music scene in the 1960s and beyond, influencing countless artists and genres.
Conclusion
“Please Mr. Postman” by The Marvelettes remains a timeless piece of music history. Its catchy tune and universal theme of longing resonate with listeners even today. I encourage those unfamiliar with the song to give it a listen and explore the rich legacy of Motown music.
Video
Lyrics
(Wait) Oh yes, wait a minute, Mr. Postman
(Wait) Wai-hey-hey-hey-it, Mr. Postman
(Please, Mr. Postman, look and see) Whoa yeah
(Is there a letter in your bag for me?) Please, please, Mr. Po-oh-ostman
(‘Cause it’s been a mighty long time) Whoa yeah
(Since I heard from this boyfriend of mine)
There must be some word today
From my boyfriend so far away
Please, Mr. Postman, look and see
Is there a letter, a letter for me?
I’ve been standin’ here waitin’, Mr. Postman
So so patiently
For just a card or just a letter
Sayin’ he’s returnin’ home to me
Please, Mr. Postman
(Please, Mr. Postman, look and see) Whoa yeah
(Is there a letter in your bag for me?) Please, please, Mr. Po-oh-oh-ostman
(‘Cause it’s been a mighty long time) Whoa yeah
(Since I heard from this boyfriend of mine)
So many days, you’ve passed me by
You saw the tears standin’ in my eye
You wouldn’t stop to make me feel better
By leavin’ me a card or a letter
Please, Mr. Postman, look and see
Is there a letter, oh yeah, in your bag for me?
You know it’s been so long
Yeah, since I heard from this boyfriend of mine
You better wait a minute, wait a minute
(Wait a minute, Mr. Postman)
Whoa, you better wait a minute
Please, please, Mr. Postman (Wait a minute, Mr. Postman)
Please check and see
Just one more time for me
You gotta wait a minute (wait), wait a minute (Wait a minute, Mr. Postman)
Oh you better wait a minute, wait a minute
Please, Mr. Po-ostman (Wait a minute, Mr. Postman)
Don’t pass me by, you see the tears in my eyes
You better wait (Wait)
Wait a minute (Wait a minute, Mr. Postman)
Wait a minute, wait a minute, wait a minute
(Wait, wait a minute, Mr. Postman)
Please Mr. Postman