“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine a moment in 1964—a time when rock ‘n’ roll was evolving, and the airwaves were filled with soulful voices. One evening, Roy Orbison, often known for his hauntingly emotional ballads, decided to step away from the usual melancholy and write a song that was vibrant, playful, and infectious. The result? “Oh, Pretty Woman,” a tune that quickly became a timeless anthem and a testament to Orbison’s ability to master both the heart-wrenching and the joyfully romantic.
About The Composition
- Title: Oh, Pretty Woman
- Composer: Roy Orbison and Bill Dees
- Premiere Date: Released on August 1964
- Album/Opus/Collection: Single, later featured on the album “Orbisongs”
- Genre: Rock and Roll, Pop Rock
Background
“Oh, Pretty Woman” was born out of a spontaneous jam session between Roy Orbison and his co-writer Bill Dees. According to the Wikipedia article, the inspiration struck when Orbison’s wife, Claudette, casually mentioned she was going shopping. Orbison turned to Dees and mused, “A pretty woman never needs any money.” That offhand remark sparked a creative fire, leading them to compose the song in under 40 minutes.
Upon its release in 1964, “Oh, Pretty Woman” was met with instant success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 charts and holding its place there for three weeks. It was a departure from Orbison’s signature melancholic style, showcasing his versatility as an artist. The song’s catchy riff and relatable lyrics made it an anthem that resonated with listeners, solidifying Orbison’s status as a rock legend.
Musical Style
The song is built around a distinctive guitar riff that instantly captures attention. It’s driven by a simple yet captivating chord progression, blending elements of rock and roll with a touch of blues. The beat is energetic and infectious, propelled by a strong rhythm section. Orbison’s vocals, as always, are the star—effortlessly gliding from deep baritone notes to his signature falsetto. The song’s structure is straightforward, yet its dynamics and phrasing give it a unique charm, keeping listeners hooked from the first note to the last.
What makes “Oh, Pretty Woman” particularly striking is its playful, upbeat tempo paired with Orbison’s powerful voice. Unlike his previous tear-jerking ballads, this song is filled with joy and lightheartedness. The iconic opening riff and the lyrical “growl” Orbison throws in add a touch of raw charisma, making it a standout in his repertoire.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Oh, Pretty Woman” are deceptively simple, revolving around the singer’s awe and admiration for a beautiful woman passing by. The theme is timeless—capturing that universal experience of being struck by someone’s beauty. There’s a charming innocence in the lyrics, with lines like “Pretty woman, walkin’ down the street / Pretty woman, the kind I like to meet,” capturing the playful spirit of the song. Yet, there’s also a subtle yearning, especially in the bridge, where Orbison’s voice conveys a longing for connection.
Performance History
From its debut, “Oh, Pretty Woman” became a staple in Roy Orbison’s live performances. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, from Van Halen’s rock-infused rendition to Al Green’s soulful interpretation. The enduring popularity of the song is evident in how it has been embraced by artists across various genres, each adding their own twist while staying true to the original’s infectious energy.
Cultural Impact
The influence of “Oh, Pretty Woman” extends far beyond the world of music. The song became even more iconic when it was used in the 1990 romantic comedy film “Pretty Woman,” starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. Its use in the movie not only brought Orbison’s music to a new generation but also solidified the song’s status as a pop culture classic. The riff has been parodied, referenced, and celebrated in countless TV shows, commercials, and films, making it one of the most recognizable songs in rock history.
Legacy
More than half a century later, “Oh, Pretty Woman” remains a beloved classic that continues to be celebrated by fans of all ages. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its simplicity, charm, and infectious melody. It showcases Roy Orbison’s remarkable range as both a songwriter and performer, proving that he was capable of crafting a song that could bring joy and energy as effortlessly as he could deliver heartbreaking ballads.
The enduring legacy of “Oh, Pretty Woman” is a testament to Orbison’s genius. Whether it’s played at a wedding, a party, or simply on a quiet evening, the song never fails to bring a smile to listeners’ faces. It’s a reminder of the magic that happens when inspiration strikes at just the right moment.
Conclusion
Listening to “Oh, Pretty Woman” today feels just as refreshing as it did when it first hit the airwaves in 1964. It’s a song that transcends generations, effortlessly drawing in listeners with its catchy beat and heartfelt lyrics. If you haven’t yet experienced the magic of this song, take a moment to listen to Roy Orbison’s original recording—it’s a timeless classic that’s sure to lift your spirits. For those wanting to delve deeper, explore live performances by Orbison, or check out covers by artists like Van Halen to appreciate how this iconic piece has been reimagined over the years.
Video
Lyrics
Pretty woman walkin’ down the street
Pretty woman, the kind I’d like to meet
Pretty woman, I don’t believe you, you’re not the truth
No one could look as good as you
Mercy
Pretty woman, won’t you pardon me?
Pretty woman, I couldn’t help but see
Pretty woman, that you look lovely as can be
Are you lonely just like me?
Grrrow
Pretty woman, stop awhile
Pretty woman, talk awhile
Pretty woman, give your smile to me
Pretty woman, yeah, yeah, yeah
Pretty woman, look my way
Pretty woman, say you’ll stay with me
‘Cause I need you, I’ll treat you right
Come with me, baby, be mine tonight
Pretty woman, don’t walk on by
Pretty woman, don’t make me cry
Pretty woman, don’t walk away, hey
Okay
If that’s the way it must be, okay
I guess I’ll go on home, it’s late
There’ll be tomorrow night, but wait
What do I see?
Is she walkin’ back to me?
Yeah, she’s walkin’ back to me
Oh, oh, pretty woman