"Mama Can't Buy You Love" is a hit single for British musician Elton John from the EP The Thom Bell Sessions. The song was written by LeRoy Bell and Casey James (of Bell and James fame). Debuting at number 69 on the Hot 100 on 9 June 1979, the track became John's first US top ten hit in almost three years when it peaked at number nine on 25 August 1979. "Mama Can't Buy You Love" also spent one week at number one on the Adult Contemporary chart. In the US, it was certified gold on 17 August 1979 by the RIAA.
The chord structure of the opening instrumental of "Mama Can't Buy You Love" bears a strong resemblance to the chord structure of the opening instrumental of Ronnie Dyson's "One Man Band (Plays All Alone)". According to the Hot 100, Thom Bell produced both records. The Spinners provided the background vocals on the track.
Reception Record World said that John's "vocals are a perfect mate for Bell's sparkling lyrics, production & keyboards."
Chart performance
Weekly charts Chart (1979)PeakpositionAustralia82Canada (CRIA)10Canadian RPM Top Singles10Canadian RPM Adult Contemporary19New Zealand20US Billboard Hot 1009US Billboard Hot Adult Contemporary Tracks1US Billboard Hot Soul Singles36US Cash Box Top 10010
Year-end charts Chart (1979)PositionCanada63US Billboard Hot 10036US Cash Box56
Certifications
See also List of number-one adult contemporary singles of 1979 (U.S.)
References