Laughing Boy - Mary Wells
"Laughing Boy" is a soulful track by Mary Wells, released in 1963. The song tells the story of a woman who is in love with a man who constantly jokes and laughs to hide his true feelings. The lyrics convey the narrator's frustration with her partner's inability to express his emotions sincerely. Musically, "Laughing Boy" features Wells' smooth and soulful vocals set against a backdrop of catchy melodies and upbeat instrumentation. The song's composition is reminiscent of the Motown sound that Wells was known for, with its catchy hooks and infectious rhythm. One notable fact about "Laughing Boy" is that it was written by Smokey Robinson, who was a prominent songwriter and producer at Motown Records. Robinson's talent for crafting emotional and relatable lyrics shines through in this song, adding depth and authenticity to Wells' performance. Overall, "Laughing Boy" is a timeless classic that showcases Mary Wells' vocal prowess and the songwriting genius of Smokey Robinson. Its infectious melody and relatable lyrics make it a standout track in Wells' discography and a beloved favorite among soul music fans.
Mary Wells
Mary Wells was an American singer who played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Motown music in the 1960s. Born on May 13, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, Wells showed an early talent for singing and began performing in local talent shows as a teenager. In 1960, at the age of 17, Wells signed with Motown Records, becoming one of the label's first successful female artists. Her breakthrough came in 1962 with the release of "The One Who Really Loves You," which reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This was followed by a string of hits, including "You Beat Me to the Punch" and "Two Lovers," which solidified her status as a rising star in the music industry. In 1964, Wells achieved international success with her iconic song "My Guy," which became her biggest hit and reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song showcased Wells's soulful voice and distinctive style, setting her apart from other artists of the time. Wells's impact on music was significant, as she was one of the first female artists to achieve mainstream success in the male-dominated world of Motown. Her soulful vocals and catchy melodies appealed to a wide audience and helped to popularize the Motown sound across the United States and beyond. Despite her success, Wells faced challenges in her personal life and career, including struggles with her health and legal disputes with Motown Records. In the late 1960s, she left the label and continued to record music independently, but was never able to replicate the success she had achieved earlier in her career. Mary Wells passed away on July 26, 1992, but her music continues to be celebrated and remembered by fans around the world. Her legacy as a pioneering female artist in the Motown era lives on, and her influence can be heard in the work of countless musicians who have been inspired by her talent and creativity.