Mary, Did You Know?

The Story Behind Mary, Did You Know?

“Mary, Did You Know?”  is a simple yet profound contemporary Christmas song that invites us to see the Nativity story through the eyes of Mary, the mother of Jesus.

Who Originally Wrote “Mary, Did You Know?”

The idea for “Mary, Did You Know?” began in 1984 when Mark Lowry, a Christian comedian, minister, and songwriter, was working on a Christmas program for his church. While reflecting on the birth of Jesus, Lowry remembered a conversation with his own mother. She once remarked:

“If anyone on earth knew for sure that Jesus was virgin born — Mary knew!”

Mark spent the next seven years tweaking his lyrics and thinking about what he would have asked Mary if he'd met her. Then in 1991, he asked a friend, Buddy Greene, to write music to accompany his lyrics.

Buddy thought about what the music should be for about two weeks before the answer hit him. He sat down to write, and the music flowed. He finished in a mere 30 minutes.

Who First Sang "Mary Did You Know?"

The song was first recorded by Christian recording artist Michael English on his self-titled debut solo album in 1991. At the time, English and Lowry were part of the Gaither Vocal Band, and Greene was touring with them. The song reached Number 6 on CCM Magazine's Adult Contemporary Chart. Lowry would record the song several times himself, most notably with the Gaither Vocal Band on their 1998 Christmas album, Still the Greatest Story Ever Told.

This song has since gone on to become a modern Christmas classic, performed by hundreds of artists over the years, across various genres. It has since gone on to be one of the most beloved modern Christmas songs. Many famous musicians have gone on to record it.

Want to deepen your celebration of Christmas? Get your FREE copy of our Christmas Hymns & Carols Guide. Enjoy lyrics, videos, and the spiritual significance of timeless carols. Download yours HERE.

Bible Inspiration for "Mary Did You Know?"

“But the angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.’ Luke 1:30-33

The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Luke 1:35

She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21

Famous Versions and Artists Who Recorded “Mary, Did You Know?”

Over the years, “Mary, Did You Know?” has been performed and recorded by hundreds of artists across musical styles. Here are some of the most popular and impactful renditions:

• Pentatonix – Their 2014 a cappella version became a viral holiday hit.

• Carrie Underwood – Delivered an emotionally charged rendition for her Christmas album.

• Kenny Rogers & Wynonna Judd - Created a timeless country duet version.

• CeeLo Green – Added a soulful, gospel-inspired twist.

• Reba McEntire, Clay Aiken, and Jordan Smith – Each brought unique emotion and interpretation to the piece.

Each performance of this popular hymn reinforces the song’s enduring message of awe, faith, and divine love.

More Performances and Further Reading

• Playlist of 15+ Best Performances of 'Mary, Did You Know?'

• 5 Biblical Truths from the Song "Mary Did You Know?"

• What Mary Knew and Why It Matters to Your Faith This Christmas