About the song

The Hollies, a seminal force in the British Invasion era, crafted a discography replete with infectious melodies and harmonies that continue to resonate decades later. Their 1967 single, “Carrie Anne”, stands as a quintessential example of their artistry.

Emerging from the fertile ground of the mid-1960s, a time when British pop music was experiencing an unprecedented surge in popularity, The Hollies carved a distinctive niche for themselves. Their blend of intricate vocal arrangements, coupled with a penchant for crafting instantly memorable hooks, set them apart from their contemporaries.

With “Carrie Anne”, the group achieved a harmonious fusion of pop and rock elements. The song’s infectious rhythm, underpinned by a driving beat, propels the listener forward, while the layered vocal harmonies create a rich and textured soundscape. At its core, “Carrie Anne” is a celebration of youthful exuberance and the universal themes of love and longing.

The lyrics, imbued with a sense of longing and yearning, paint a vivid portrait of a romantic ideal. The song’s narrator expresses a deep affection for the titular character, Carrie Anne, whose name itself evokes a sense of innocence and purity. The use of vivid imagery and relatable emotions lends the song a timeless quality that has ensured its enduring appeal.

Beyond its commercial success, “Carrie Anne” has also garnered critical acclaim. The song’s composition and arrangement have been praised for their sophistication and complexity, while the vocal performance of the band members has been lauded for its emotional depth and precision.

As we embark on a deeper exploration of this iconic track, we will examine its musical structure, lyrical content, and cultural impact in greater detail. By delving into the intricacies of “Carrie Anne”, we can gain a deeper appreciation for The Hollies’ enduring legacy and their contribution to the evolution of pop music.

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Lyrics

“Carrie Anne”

Doo doo doo-doo doo doo doo-doo doo
Doo doo doo-doo doo doo doo-doo doo
Hey, Carrie Anne
Hey, Carrie Anne

When we were at school our games were simple
I played the janitor, you played the monitor
Then you played with older boys and prefects
What’s the attraction in what they’re doing

[Chorus:]
Hey Carrie Anne
What’s your game now, can anybody play
Hey Carrie Anne
What’s your game now, can anybody play

You were always something special to me
Quite independent, never caring
You lost your charm as you were aging
Where is your magic disappearing

[Chorus]

You’re so, so like a woman to me
Oh like a woman to me
So, so like a woman to me
Like a woman to me

[Chorus]

People live and learn but you’re still learning
You use my mind and I’ll be your teacher
When the lesson’s over you’ll be with me
Then I’ll hear the other people saying

[Chorus]

Carrie Anne, Carrie Anne, Carrie Anne, Carrie Anne