The fourth single from Benjamin Tod’s highly-anticipated record.
Today, Tod released a certified twanger, “Mary Could You.” The single, inspired by the autobiography of the author Jack Black, highlights Tod’s imagination and ability to write his own history as “Mary Could You” expands on the story of a character from the novel.
“Around the age of 19, when I was full-time hopping trains and street performing, I came across an autobiography by the author Jack Black titled You Can’t Win about his life in the early 20th century being a criminal, junkie hobo.
This book would shape a good portion of my identity and self-perception for many years.”
The character Mary is another addition to Benjamin Tod’s laundry list of interesting fictional characters he has written about over the years. Mary’s story is one you want to hear.
Mary Howard, also referred to as “Salt Chunk Mary,” ran and managed a motel.
“This song is based on her as the main character and a probable series of events that unfolded at some time on her property. She was the queen of yeggs and I encourage you to pick up a copy of the book if you like this tune and you’re interested in a vital piece of American history.”
The tune’s narrator finds himself in a few sticky situations, turning to Mary to help him out of his bind. Mary is pictured as a jack of all trades; she could sell you booze, put you up in a room, or find you a tomb. He turns to her for help while he lives a nomadic lifestyle.
“Mary made a living just fencing what was given
When the tramps rolled in on the train
Sold her booze and offered a room and a lady without a name
She could sew your wounds or sell you a tomb
But never could you tell her you had something to lose…”
The lyrics detailing this colorful character are accompanied by an upbeat Western swing beat that transports listeners back in time.
Tod is one of the most prolific songwriters in the game today. He spins stories like it’s second nature and draws listeners in through the captivating stories he curates. This alone is enough to draw in listeners, but the added melodies that capture the heart of Appalachia with traditional country and folk roots create pure magic.
On October 18th, Tod will release his highly anticipated record Shooting Star, a collection of ten songs that dives into the last seven decades of country music.
“The original idea for this album was for each song to be placed in a different production period in country music history. Obviously, there’s no way to cover everything so my preference shines through. A tune goes as far back as the mid-50s and spans up to the early 90’s.
It spilled out seamlessly. I wanted to prove to myself and the industry that I could write an elite country record with ease. If I didn’t accomplish that goal, I sure as hell came closer than anyone on pop country radio either way.”
Given singles released thus far, Tod is more than proving he can write an elite country record. He is setting a new standard.
Turn this all the way up.
