The Meaning Behind The Song: Mr. Lee by The Bobbettes
When I hear the iconic opening lines of “One, two, three, hey, look at Mr. Lee, three, four, five, hey, look at him jive,” I am immediately transported back to the vibrant sound of the late 1950s. Released in 1957, “Mr. Lee” became the Bobbettes’ first hit and paved the way for their success as the first girl group to have a number 1 R&B hit and a top 10 American pop hit.
The Bobbettes, consisting of Emma Pought, Jannie Pought, Helen Gathers, Laura Webb, and Reather Dixon, wrote this song themselves. They drew inspiration from a schoolteacher whom they despised. However, their record company had a different vision for the song and encouraged them to turn it into a loving tribute instead.
Despite the change in direction, the Bobbettes managed to infuse “Mr. Lee” with their infectious energy and charm. The catchy chorus, “Mr. Lee, Mr. Lee, oh, Mr. Lee,” captures the innocent infatuation the girls feel for their sweetie, Mr. Lee. Their hearts ache for him, and they declare their unwavering love, vowing to never let him go.
Listening to “Mr. Lee,” I can’t help but be transported to a time when innocent crushes and the joy of young love filled the airwaves. The song perfectly encapsulates the excitement and anticipation that comes with having a crush on someone. It brings back memories of my own adolescent years, where a simple glance or conversation with a crush could make my heart skip a beat.
As the song progresses, the lyrics depict the arrival of Mr. Lee, ready to sweep the Bobbettes off their feet. The infectious rhythm takes over, and the girls enthusiastically proclaim, “Come on Mr. Lee and do your stuff, ’cause you’re gonna be mine till the end of time.” Their excitement is palpable, and you can’t help but root for their young love to triumph.
Reflecting on the lyrics and the Bobbettes’ story behind the song, I find it fascinating how adversity and dislike for their teacher transformed into an innocent love song. It showcases the power of music to transcend personal experiences and emotions. Despite their initial distaste for Mr. Lee, the Bobbettes were able to channel their feelings into a positive and catchy tune that resonated with audiences.
In 1959, the Bobbettes produced a sequel to “Mr. Lee” called “I Shot Mr. Lee.” However, this song remained unreleased. It’s intriguing to think about the evolution of their emotions towards Mr. Lee, from admiration to frustration, ultimately culminating in the playful concept of “I Shot Mr. Lee.”
The Bobbettes: “Mr. Lee”
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Lee | The Bobbettes | Emma Pought, Jannie Pought, Helen Gathers, Laura Webb, Reather Dixon | Mr. Lee: The Best of the Bobbettes | 1957 | Pop | N/A |
Listening to the different covers and tributes to “Mr. Lee,” such as Diana Ross and The Pointer Sisters, showcases the enduring legacy of the Bobbettes and their contribution to the girl group genre. The song’s timeless appeal continues to resonate with audiences today.
In conclusion, “Mr. Lee” by the Bobbettes is more than just a catchy tune from the 1950s. It represents the creativity and determination of a pioneering girl group. The song’s transformation from disdain for a teacher to an exuberant declaration of love embodies the power of music to transcend personal experiences. Whether you’re familiar with the Bobbettes or discovering them for the first time, “Mr. Lee” is a testament to the enduring spirit of young love and the beauty of harmony.
