Original vs. Peg Luke: “Mary Did You Know”
Peg Luke steps into a long and meaningful musical tradition with her newest release, “Mary Did You Know,” offering a serene and spiritually rich interpretation of a song that has become a modern Christmas essential. While her version highlights expressive flute work and gentle orchestral colors, the original carries its own unique history and emotional weight. Taken together, both versions reveal why this song continues to touch listeners year after year.
To understand what makes Peg Luke’s approach meaningful, we first need to revisit how “Mary, Did You Know?” originally came into existence. The lyrics were written in 1984 by Mark Lowry, who imagined what he would ask Mary if he could speak with her face-to-face. These questions, about her newborn son’s miracles, his divinity, and his purpose, formed the heart of the text. Several years later, musician Buddy Greene composed the melody, giving the words a contemplative, hymn-like tone. The first official recording came in 1991 when Michael English released the song, introducing it to the world as part of the contemporary Christian music movement. From there, the song grew far beyond church stages and quickly became a holiday staple, recorded by artists across genres including gospel, country, and a cappella.
Peg Luke’s interpretation honors that original intention, yet she brings something distinct, something only she can offer. Rather than relying on vocals to express the message, Luke lets her flute carry the emotional weight. Her playing becomes the voice of the story, delivering the melody with a mix of tenderness and quiet strength. Meanwhile, soft piano, guitar, and warm orchestral textures expand the atmosphere, creating a sound world built for contemplation.
Still, at the heart of Peg Luke’s version are the timeless words themselves. The lyrics “Mary, did you know that your baby boy will one day walk on water… Did you know that your baby boy has come to make us new? This Child you will deliver will soon deliver you” remain unchanged, serving as a spiritual anchor. And because Luke places the instrumental performance in the foreground, these lines feel even more reflective. Her arrangement encourages listeners to pause and take in the depth of the questions.
The accompanying music video deepens this experience. Peg Luke appears with a calm presence, surrounded by gentle portrayals of Mary and baby Jesus.
In comparing the two versions, one thing becomes clear: Peg Luke does not replace the original spirit of “Mary, Did You Know?,” she expands it. Peg Luke uses her classical voice to highlight the purity and emotional depth behind the same ideas the original has been carrying throughout decades. Through her arrangement, she transforms the beloved Christmas classic into a gentle instrumental reflection, offering listeners a peaceful way to reconnect with the story’s meaning.
Peg Luke’s interpretation stands as both a tribute and a fresh contribution. It keeps the heart of the song intact while inviting audiences to see it from a new perspective.
