This man has the most incredible voice. I fell in love with him back in 88 with Threadbare Alibis. This is my favorite, a beautiful song from a beautiful man. Why the country music world never caught on, I have no idea. Listen to his voice again, and tell me he's not the best. Damn good looking too!
"I draw my pay down on the docks.....I send it off to Mary
I might hold back a dollar to wash this pain out of my back
But the pain keeps getting clearer and Mary your face just keeps on fading
Now the light shines through this bottle....memories all fade to black"
Let's face it, this guy is probably holding back more than a dollar and the pain he's trying to wash away isn't in his back. This is more a ballad about an alcoholic who can't change. That's why he left in the first place.
Past the Point of Rescue is a great CD, but this sweet Mary song has always been my favorite. Hal Ketchum is just awesome and under appreciated. I hope he's doing well.
Saw Hal live and his was one of the best shows I've ever seen. Rock solid vocals, great stage presence. Met him afterwards and he was very approachable and down-to-earth.
An outstanding but under appreciated talent. This and so many of his songs are among my favorites. God bless Hal Ketchum!
hochbob 1 year ago 2
@beckyboo1961 I agree but I saw the poor guy last night. He's not looking or sounding too good. It's sad
starchief59 1 year ago
@beckyboo1961 Couldn't have said it better!
tylermeatball 2 years ago
This man has the most incredible voice. I fell in love with him back in 88 with Threadbare Alibis. This is my favorite, a beautiful song from a beautiful man. Why the country music world never caught on, I have no idea. Listen to his voice again, and tell me he's not the best. Damn good looking too!
beckyboo1961 2 years ago
"I draw my pay down on the docks.....I send it off to Mary
I might hold back a dollar to wash this pain out of my back
But the pain keeps getting clearer and Mary your face just keeps on fading
Now the light shines through this bottle....memories all fade to black"
Let's face it, this guy is probably holding back more than a dollar and the pain he's trying to wash away isn't in his back. This is more a ballad about an alcoholic who can't change. That's why he left in the first place.
rojamey 2 years ago 2
I like the contradictions in this song. He's a self professed tough guy as well as self professed romantic.
I'm a lover of a drink, a lover of a fight
Hold my own on the dark side of this town
Yes, I'm tough as nails, got a heart of steel
I will never fear, for I will never feel
And one more round would surely set me right
I miss my Mary tonight
You like the guy, you feel for him but at the same time when you think of the first part of the song where he abandons his family....
rojamey 2 years ago
I agree with the first two comments. This is one that I've listened to over and over for hours at a time--one of my favorite Hal songs.
NTJayne 2 years ago
no, it is Scott Neubert
wbakervideo 2 years ago
Past the Point of Rescue is a great CD, but this sweet Mary song has always been my favorite. Hal Ketchum is just awesome and under appreciated. I hope he's doing well.
softsummernight 2 years ago
Saw Hal live and his was one of the best shows I've ever seen. Rock solid vocals, great stage presence. Met him afterwards and he was very approachable and down-to-earth.
mnnorthcountrygirl1 3 years ago