The Meaning Behind The Song: Its Me Again Margaret by Ray Stevens

When Ray Stevens released his jocular hit single “It’s Me Again Margaret” in 1984, audiences instantly fell in love with the catchy tune and its clever lyrics. The song’s popularity spawned from its lighthearted melody and comedic lyrics, yet the meaning behind the song is much deeper and personal to Stevens.

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The song, which tells the story of a persistent and slightly creepy lover repeatedly calling an unknown Margaret, was inspired by Stevens’ own experience of accidentally dialing the wrong phone number and leaving a message on a stranger’s answering machine. When the stranger never returned his call, Stevens became fascinated by the idea of someone repeatedly trying to call a stranger who had no idea who they were.

Despite its humorous tone, the song’s underlying meaning explores the human condition of loneliness and longing for connection. It highlights the desperation one can feel when trying to reach out to someone they connect with but who doesn’t reciprocate. Its catchy tune and playful lyrics make it a classic example of how music can serve as a vehicle to express complex emotions.

FAQs about “It’s Me Again Margaret”:

1) What inspired Ray Stevens to write “It’s Me Again Margaret”?

As mentioned earlier, Ray Stevens’ phone call to the wrong number inspired him to write the song. He found the experience of reaching out to a stranger who didn’t know him, and who he felt a connection with, at once both funny and poignant.

2) What is the meaning behind the song’s lyrics?

The song is a subtle reflection of human longing for connection. It highlights how people feel lonely and trapped in their own lives and can become desperate to reach out in any way they can to connect with others.

3) What makes the song so popular even today?

The song’s playful melody and relatable lyrics have stood the test of time. It is a classic example of how music can express complex emotions in a fun and relatable way that resonates with people.

4) What was the public reaction to the song when it was released?

The song was a huge commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It was also a hit in Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, and remains a popular track today.

5) Why is the song considered controversial by some?

The song’s humor and playful tone can be seen as insensitive to those who might experience unwanted attention or stalking. Some have criticized the song’s lyrics and tone as being tone-deaf to the issue of stalking.

6) What was the message behind the song’s music video?

The music video for “It’s Me Again Margaret” was a whimsical and humorous portrayal of Stevens’ telephone mishap that inspired the song. With guest appearances by famous comedians like Jerry Clower and Tim Wilson, the video added to the lighthearted nature of the song.

7) What other hit songs has Ray Stevens recorded?

Stevens has enjoyed a lengthy and successful music career spanning several decades. Some of his other popular hits include “The Streak”, “Everything Is Beautiful”, and “Mr. Businessman”.

8) How did Ray Stevens become a successful musician?

After starting his music career as a songwriter in the 1950s, Stevens signed with Mercury Records in the early 1960s and began releasing his own music. He quickly found success with hits like “Jeremiah Peabody’s Polyunsaturated Quick-Dissolving Fast-Acting Pleasant-Tasting Green and Purple Pills”.

9) Did Ray Stevens write any other songs with a deeper meaning?

While many of his songs are comedic and lighthearted, Stevens has recorded several tracks with a more serious tone, such as “Everything Is Beautiful”, which carries a positive message of unity and acceptance.

10) What is Ray Stevens doing now?

Stevens remains active in the music industry today, performing live and releasing new music. He also owns and operates a theater in Branson, Missouri, where he regularly performs and features other artists.

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