Rod Stewart – Maggie May – 1971

About The Song

“Maggie May” is a classic rock song performed by Rod Stewart, released in 1971 as a single from his third studio album, “Every Picture Tells a Story.” The song became one of Stewart’s most iconic and successful tracks, earning widespread acclaim for its storytelling lyrics and memorable melody.

Five facts about Rod Stewart’s “Maggie May”:

Release and Chart Success: “Maggie May” was released as a double A-side single with “Reason to Believe” and quickly became a massive hit. It topped the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom, solidifying Rod Stewart’s status as a rock star.
Acoustic Guitar Opening: The song is known for its distinctive acoustic guitar introduction, played by Ray Jackson. The opening riff is instantly recognizable and contributes significantly to the song’s overall appeal.
Lyric Inspiration: The lyrics of “Maggie May” tell the story of a young man’s romantic involvement with an older woman. The song was inspired by Stewart’s own experiences and relationships, adding a personal touch to the narrative.
Mandolin Solo: The song features a notable mandolin solo played by the aforementioned Ray Jackson, who was a member of the folk-rock group Lindisfarne. The mandolin solo adds a folk-inspired element to the otherwise rock-oriented track.
Critical Acclaim and Awards: “Maggie May” received critical acclaim and earned Rod Stewart the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance in 1972. The song remains one of the singer’s signature pieces and is often regarded as one of the greatest rock songs of all time.

Video

Lyrics

Wake up, Maggie, I think I got somethin’ to say to you
It’s late September and I really should be back at school
I know I keep you amused, but I feel I’m being used
Oh, Maggie, I couldn’t have tried any more

You led me away from home
Just to save you from being alone
You stole my heart and that’s what really hurts

The mornin’ sun when it’s in your face really shows your age
But that don’t worry me none, in my eyes, you’re everything
I laughed at all of your jokes, my love, you didn’t need to coax
Oh, Maggie, I couldn’t have tried any more

You led me away from home
Just to save you from being alone
You stole my soul, and that’s a pain I can do without

All I needed was a friend to lend a guiding hand
But you turned into a lover, and mother, what a lover, you wore me out
All you did was wreck my bed, and in the morning, kick me in the head
Oh, Maggie, I couldn’t have tried any more

You led me away from home
‘Cause you didn’t wanna be alone
You stole my heart, I couldn’t leave you if I tried

I suppose I could collect my books and get on back to school
Or steal my daddy’s cue and make a living out of playin’ pool
Or find myself a rock and roll band that needs a helpin’ hand
Oh, Maggie, I wished I’d never seen your face

You made a first-class fool out of me
But I’m as blind as a fool can be
You stole my heart, but I love you anyway

Maggie, I wished I’d never seen your face
I’ll get on back home one of these days
Ooh, ooh, ooh