Joe And Mary

Bryan Adams' song "Joe and Mary" is a modern retelling of the biblical story of Mary and Joseph, the parents of Jesus Christ. The lyrics cleverly transpose the ancient narrative into a contemporary setting, making it relatable and accessible to today's audience. The song begins by introducing Joe and Mary as two young lovers from a small town, whose lives are disrupted by a rumor that Mary is pregnant. This mirrors the biblical account of the Virgin Mary and Joseph, who faced societal scrutiny and challenges due to Mary's miraculous pregnancy.

As the story unfolds, Joe and Mary decide to leave their town, embarking on a journey in a beat-up Buick with Chuck Berry playing on the radio. This road trip symbolizes their search for a place of refuge, much like the biblical journey to Bethlehem. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of their struggles, including a broken heater in freezing weather and a full Motel 6, which echoes the biblical account of there being no room at the inn. Despite these hardships, Joe reassures Mary that everything will be alright, suggesting a sense of divine protection and hope.

The climax of the song arrives with the birth of their baby, described as a "pretty little baby in swaddling clothes," under a star casting a heavenly glow. This imagery directly references the nativity scene, complete with the guiding star of Bethlehem. The song concludes with the notion that it wouldn't be long before the world would know about Joe and Mary, paralleling the widespread impact of Jesus' birth. Through this modern adaptation, Bryan Adams captures the essence of the nativity story, blending it with contemporary elements to create a timeless narrative of love, faith, and resilience.