The Meaning Behind The Song: How Do You Do? by Mouth & MacNeal

The Meaning Behind “How Do You Do?” by Mouth & MacNeal

It’s hard to resist singing along to the catchy tune of “How Do You Do?” by Mouth & MacNeal. The song, released in 1971, quickly became a hit across Europe and even received some airplay in the United States. But what is the song really about? Let’s dive in and explore the meaning behind “How Do You Do?”.

Table of Contents

The Origins of “How Do You Do?”

Before we get into the lyrics of the song, it’s important to understand a bit about the duo behind it. Mouth & MacNeal, made up of Willem “Mouth” Duyn and Sjoukje “MacNeal” van’t Spijker, were a Dutch pop duo who achieved international success in the early 1970s. “How Do You Do?” was their biggest hit, reaching number one on the charts in several countries.

According to Duyn, the inspiration for the song came from his experiences as a street musician in Amsterdam. He would often use “How do you do?” as a greeting to passersby, and the phrase stuck with him. Together with producer Hans van Hemert, Duyn and van’t Spijker turned the phrase into a song.

The Lyrics of “How Do You Do?”

At first glance, the lyrics of “How Do You Do?” may seem nonsensical. The song starts with the repeated question, “Once I said I wanted you, I don’t remember why.” But as the song progresses, it becomes clear that the lyrics are actually about a relationship that has fizzled out.

The chorus of the song, with its upbeat melody and optimistic lyrics, stands in stark contrast to the verses. “How do you do? Well, you’re finally through, I’ve been waiting for you.” These lines suggest that the singer has moved on and is happy to see their former lover again, even if just to say goodbye.

The Significance of “How Do You Do?”

Despite its upbeat melody, “How Do You Do?” is actually a rather melancholy song. It’s a bittersweet reflection on a failed relationship and the mixed emotions that come with seeing an ex again. But why did the song resonate with audiences in the early 1970s?

At the time, there was a growing sense of nostalgia for the 1950s and an interest in the music of that era. “How Do You Do?” has a distinctly retro feel to it, with its doo-wop inspired harmonies and simple melody. The song may have appealed to listeners who were looking for something that reminded them of a simpler time.

The Legacy of “How Do You Do?”

Despite being a one-hit wonder in many parts of the world, “How Do You Do?” has left a lasting impact on popular culture. The song has been featured in several movies and TV shows, including the films Love Actually and Boat Trip, and the TV show American Crime Story.

What’s more, the song’s catchy melody and upbeat lyrics have made it a popular choice for weddings and other celebrations. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of “How Do You Do?” that it continues to be played and enjoyed nearly 50 years after its release.

The Bottom Line

In the end, the meaning behind “How Do You Do?” is simple yet poignant. It’s a song about the end of a relationship and the emotions that come with it. But the catchy melody and upbeat chorus give the song a sense of optimism, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, there is hope for the future.