Danny Wilson were a Scottish pop trio formed in Dundee in the mid-1980s, known for their sophisticated songwriting, smooth harmonies, and blend of pop, soul, and jazz influences. Fronted by brothers Gary and Kit Clark alongside keyboardist Ged Grimes, the group earned critical acclaim for their polished musicianship and adventurous arrangements.
Their 1987 debut album Meet Danny Wilson produced the international hit “Mary’s Prayer,” showcasing the band’s knack for melodic hooks and lyrical depth. Although their time together was relatively short, Danny Wilson left a lasting mark on UK pop with a sound that balanced commercial appeal and artistic elegance, and its members have continued to contribute meaningfully to music in their subsequent careers.
“Mary’s Prayer” is the song that put Danny Wilson firmly on the musical map, and it remains a beautifully crafted pop gem. Released in 1987, the track blends warm vocals, gospel-tinged harmonies, and a smooth, soulful melody that drifts along with effortless charm. Its reflective lyrics and polished production gave it a timeless quality, helping the single find success both in the UK and internationally.
Even decades later, “Mary’s Prayer” still feels fresh—an uplifting, melodic classic that showcases the band’s knack for heartfelt, sophisticated pop.
The song peaked at No. 03 in the UK Singles Chart on 30th April 1988.
| A-Side | Mary’s Prayer (3:49) (Gary Clarke) Produced By Dave Bascombe |
| B-Side | Monkey’s Shiny Day (5:05) (Gary Clarke) Produced By Howard Gray |
| Genre | Rock, Pop, Ballad |
| Release Date | March 1988 |
| Label | VIRGIN |
| Catalogue Number | GS 934 |
| Date Of UK Top 40 Entry | 16th April 1988 |
| Highest Chart Position | No. 08 |
| Weeks In UK Top 40 | 05 |
| UK Top 40 Chart Run [8 Weeks] – 16th April 1988 – 4th June 1988 |
Officially Released Versions
Mary’s Prayer (Remix) (Single Version) (3:49)
Mary’s Prayer (Album Version) (3:54)
Mary’s Prairie (3:41)
Versions On Spotify
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Lyrics
Everything is wonderful
Being here is heavenly
Every single day, she sends
Everything is free
I used to be so careless
As if I couldn’t care less
Did I have to make this me
When I was Mary’s prayer?
Suddenly, the heavens roared
Suddenly, the rain came down
Suddenly was washed away
The Mary that I knew
So when you find somebody you’ll keep
Think of me and celebrate
I made such a big mistake
When I was Mary’s prayer
So if I say save me, save me
Be the light in my eyes
And if I say ten Hail Marys
Leave a light on in Heaven for me
Blessed is the one who shares
Your power and your beauty, Mary
Blessed is the millionaire
Who shares your wedding day
So when you find somebody you’ll keep
Think of me and celebrate
I made such a big mistake
When I was Mary’s prayer
So if I say save me, save me
Be the light in my eyes
And if I say ten Hail Marys
Leave a light on in Heaven
Save me, save me
Be the light in my eyes
And if I say ten Hail Marys
Leave a light on in Heaven for me
If you want the fruit to fall
You have to give the tree a shake
But if you shake the tree too hard
The bough is gonna break
And if I can’t reach the top of the tree
Oh, Mary, you can blow me up there
What I wouldn’t give to be
When I was Mary’s prayer
So if I say save me, save me
Be the light in my eyes
And if I say ten Hail Marys
Leave a light on in Heaven
Save me, save me
Be the light in my eyes
And if I say ten Hail Marys
Leave a light on in Heaven
Save me, save me
Be the light in my eyes
What I wouldn’t give to be
When I was Mary’s prayer
What I wouldn’t give to be
When I was Mary’s prayer
Save me (What I wouldn’t give to be)
When I was Mary’s prayer
Written By Gary Clarke
