About the Song
Gerry Cross the Mersey is a song written by Gerry Marsden, and recorded by his band Gerry and the Pacemakers. It was released in late 1964 in the UK, and in 1965 in the United States. The song became a transatlantic hit, reaching number six in the United States and number eight in the UK.
The song is a Merseybeat anthem, celebrating the city of Liverpool and its famous ferry, which crosses the River Mersey. The lyrics are simple but evocative, capturing the spirit of the city and its people. The song’s melody is catchy and upbeat, and it has become a firm favorite with fans of all ages.
Gerry and the Pacemakers were one of the most successful British beat groups of the 1960s. They were formed in Liverpool in 1959, and originally consisted of Gerry Marsden (vocals, guitar), his brother Freddie Marsden (drums), Les Maguire (piano), and Arthur McMahon (bass). The band’s name was inspired by a local dance hall, the Pacemaker Club.
The Pacemakers were signed to the Beatles’ record label, Parlophone, and their first single, “How Do You Do It?”, was released in 1963. The song reached number one in the UK, and was followed by a string of further hits, including “I Like It”, “You’ll Never Walk Alone”, and “Ferry Cross the Mersey”.
The band’s success was due in part to their energetic live performances, and they were popular with audiences both in the UK and abroad. They toured the United States in 1965, and appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show.
The Pacemakers disbanded in 1966, but Gerry Marsden continued to perform and record as a solo artist. He died in 2021 at the age of 78.
Ferry Cross the Mersey is a classic Merseybeat song that has stood the test of time. It is a celebration of Liverpool and its people, and it continues to be enjoyed by fans of all ages. The song’s simple but evocative lyrics capture the spirit of the city, and its catchy melody has made it a firm favorite. Gerry and the Pacemakers were one of the most successful British beat groups of the 1960s, and “Ferry Cross the Mersey” is one of their most enduring songs.
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Lyrics: Ferry Cross The Mersey
Life goes on day after day
Hearts torn in every waySo ferry, cross the Mersey
‘Cause this land’s the place I love
And here I’ll stayPeople they rush everywhere
Each with their own secret careSo ferry, cross the Mersey
And always take me there
The place I lovePeople around every corner
They seem to smile and say
We don’t care what your name is boy
We’ll never turn you awaySo I’ll continue to say
Here I always will staySo ferry, cross the Mersey
‘Cause this land’s the place I love
And here I’ll stay
And here I’ll stay
Here I’ll stay