She Really Gets Around

'Hello Mary Lou' is a memorable hit song as recorded by the late Rick Nelson, written by Gene Pitney. Although it became a hit more than 50 years ago, it still has the power to make you tap your foot and sing along with the music - a great, old time rock and roll tune.

It is a simple love song with a lively beat, a cowbell, and an iconic lead guitar break by the legendary James Burton. What's not to like? I play this song in my own band, and Nelson's version is on my iTunes and iPhone. 

Great songs often spawn cover versions, and 'Mary Lou' is no exception. So just how many ways can you say hello to Mary Lou? Check these videos - some of them are quite surprising.

No doubt about it - that 'Mary Lou' girl really gets around.

Robert, Jimmy and the guys

Click through to find more ways to say 'Hello Mary Lou'.

Creedence Clearwater Revival

New Riders of the Purple Sage

Herman's Hermits:

Queen

Sorry, couldn't pass this one by: The Barbershop Quartet version:

Jan und Kjeld - two Danish, banjo playing brothers:

The Seekers:

No such list would be complete without the Nelson brother's version of their Dad's big hit. This is Matthew and Gunnar - Nelson's twin sons.

Johnny Duncan recorded this song before Nelson, but Ricky's version became a huge hit, while Johnny's take is pretty much forgotten:

The man that wrote it - Gene Pitney:

The Virtual Bluegrass Band (Josh Turner) version:

Can't leave out Ricky and James

What's you're favorite version?

Larry Manch is an author, teacher, guitar player, freelance writer, and columnist. His books include: 'The Toughest Hundred Dollars & Other Rock & Roll Stories', 'A Sports Junkie', 'The Avery Appointment', 'Between the Fuzzy Parts'.

He also writes about baseball for Climbing Tal's Hill, food and travel on Miles & Meals, and music/guitars on The Backbeat.

He lives in Central Texas with his wife and family.

Follow @LarryManch