Peak
64
Weeks
5
Score
300
Chart Year
1962
This was written by Roger Miller, who first recorded the song as "Fair Swiss Maiden." It was the first international hit for the American singer-songwriter, who achieved worldwide fame in the mid '60s for his honky-tonk-influenced novelty tunes. The song was a relative flop for Shannon in his home country, only making #64 on the US Billboard charts. However it was more successful internationally, peaking at #2 in the UK and topping the Australian charts for three weeks. Shannon sings here of a Swiss maiden, who is unable to find true love. He employed two gimmicks that enhances his performance: a Buddy Holly hiccup and a distinctive yodel.
One time a long time ago, On a mountain in Switzerland, Yo lo lo lo, There lived a fair young maiden, Lovely but lonely, Oh oh oh oh. Day after day, She'd pine her heart away, Yo lo lo lady ya, But no love came her way. Some day papa said, Some day we'll go, Down to the village in the valley, Then you'll meet a nice young man, Ask for your hand, Then you'll be happy Every day she grew unhappier, On a mountain in Switzerland, Yo lo lo lo, Every day a little bit lonelier, Which way to turn and which way to go Day after day, She'd pine her heart away, Yo lo lo lady ya, But no love came her way. Some say the maidens dream, Never came true, She never got to go to the valley, If she did or not, I really don't know, Oh oh oh oh. Did she die unhappy? I'd rather think she found her love, Wouldn't she be better if she did find love? Somewhere, Some way. Yo lo lo lady ya Yo lo lo lady ya
| Week | Chart Date | Position | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sep 15, 1962 | 89 | 37 |
| 2 | Sep 22, 1962 | 74 | 52 |
| 3 | Sep 29, 1962 | 70 | 56 |
| 4 | Oct 6, 1962 | 70 | 56 |
| 5 | Oct 13, 1962 | 64 | 62 |