“Mary, Did You Know” has become a staple in Christmas music repertoire worldwide, captivating hearts with its poignant questions posed to Mary, the mother of Jesus. But where did this moving carol originate, and what’s the story behind its creation? This article delves into the fascinating journey of this contemporary Christmas classic, exploring its lyrical depth and enduring appeal.
The genesis of “Mary, Did You Know” dates back to 1984, conceived by Mark Lowry, then a young member of Jerry Falwell’s church in Lynchburg, Virginia. Lowry was tasked with writing the program for the church’s annual Christmas production. While incorporating traditional carols, he felt a desire to express the awe and wonder of the Nativity in a fresh, impactful way. Inspiration struck when Lowry’s mother remarked on Mary’s unique perspective as the virgin mother of Jesus. This sparked an idea: to write a series of questions from the perspective of someone contemplating the enormity of Mary’s role and the divine nature of her child.
A tender portrayal of Mother Mary cradling baby Jesus, reflecting the central figures of the beloved Christmas song “Mary, Did You Know?”.
Lowry envisioned the manger scene and pondered the immense power and divinity held in Mary’s arms. He began drafting questions he imagined asking Mary: “Mary, did you know who is in your arms?” “Did you know that your baby boy will one day walk on water?” “Did you know that your baby boy will save our sons and daughters?”. He sought to articulate the ineffable wonder of raising the Son of God, exploring both Mary’s knowledge and potential unknowing of the full scope of Jesus’s destiny. These introspective questions formed the lyrical foundation of what would become “Mary, Did You Know.”
However, the lyrics remained without music for several years. It wasn’t until 1991, while touring as a gospel singer, that Lowry shared his words with Buddy Greene, a respected gospel music songwriter. Greene, upon receiving Lowry’s lyrics, composed the melody in a remarkable burst of creativity, completing it in just thirty minutes. Upon singing the tune to Lowry over the phone, it was immediately clear that Greene had perfectly captured the emotional depth and reverence of the lyrics. The melody resonated deeply with Lowry’s vision, bringing the song to life.
Despite the powerful combination of lyrics and music, Lowry initially hesitated to perform the song himself. Doubting his vocal ability to do it justice, he passed it on to Michael English, who included “Mary, Did You Know” in his debut solo album. Ironically, the album’s release in early January meant it missed the Christmas season. Yet, the song’s impact was immediate and profound. It quickly gained traction, becoming a radio hit and resonating with audiences across genres.
“Mary, Did You Know” has since become a global phenomenon, recorded over 500 times by a diverse array of artists, spanning genres from contemporary Christian and gospel to country and pop. Artists like Kenny Rogers, Pentatonix, Clay Aiken, and Carrie Underwood have all lent their voices to this modern carol, further cementing its place in the Christmas canon. Even Mark Lowry eventually embraced the song, performing it regularly after an impromptu, a cappella rendition at a Gaither concert in Detroit was met with overwhelming audience enthusiasm.
The enduring appeal of “Mary, Did You Know” lies in its unique perspective and thought-provoking questions. It invites listeners to contemplate the extraordinary nature of Jesus’s birth through Mary’s eyes, highlighting both the tender humanity of the Nativity and the divine destiny of the child. The song beautifully blends wonder, reverence, and a touch of mystery, making it a timeless and deeply moving addition to the Christmas songbook. Its journey from a church Christmas program to a globally recognized carol is a testament to its powerful message and the collaborative talents of its creators, Mark Lowry and Buddy Greene.
