About the song Oh, Pretty Woman song by Roy Orbison
Oh, Pretty Woman is a song written by Roy Orbison and Bill Dees and recorded by Orbison. Released as a single in August 1964 on Monument Records and spent three weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 from September 26, 1964, the second and final single by Orbison to top the US charts. It was also Orbison’s third single to top the UK Singles Chart (for a total of three weeks).
Orbison’s recording of the song was produced by Fred Foster on August 1, 1964. There were four guitar players at the session: Roy Orbison, Billy Sanford, Jerry Kennedy, and Wayne Moss. Sanford, who later played on sessions for Elvis Presley, Don Williams and many others, played the intro guitar. Other musicians on the record included Floyd Cramer on piano, Henry Strzelecki on upright bass, Boots Randolph and Charlie McCoy on saxophones, Buddy Harman on drums, and Paul Garrison on percussion. Co-writer Bill Dees sang high harmony, as he did on many Orbison songs. Bill Porter served as recording engineer.
Background and Composition
Orbison and Dees penned the song in 1959, drawing inspiration from Orbison’s own experiences with loneliness and isolation. The song’s lyrics capture the profound sense of sadness and longing that comes with feeling disconnected from others. The melody, a melancholic yet captivating tune, perfectly complements the lyrics’ emotional depth.
Release and Reception
Released as a single in May 1960, Oh, Pretty Woman quickly climbed the charts, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 by July 1960. The song’s success not only boosted Orbison’s popularity but also established his signature style – a blend of heartfelt lyrics, soaring vocals, and dramatic arrangements.
Critical Acclaim and Legacy
Oh, Pretty Woman has been universally praised by music critics, who have lauded its poignant lyrics, Orbison’s powerful vocals, and the song’s overall emotional resonance. The song has been inducted into both the Grammy Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, further cementing its status as a classic of American music.
Cover Versions and Popular Culture [Image of song cover of Oh, Pretty Woman by Bill Dees, Joe Melson, and Roy Orbison]
The song’s enduring popularity has led to numerous cover versions by artists across various genres, including Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, and The Beatles. Oh, Pretty Woman has also been featured in several films and television shows, including The Breakfast Club and Mad Men, further solidifying its place in popular culture.
Significance
Oh, Pretty Woman stands as a timeless masterpiece, its poignant lyrics and Orbison’s heartfelt delivery resonating with listeners across generations. The song’s exploration of loneliness and the longing for connection remains deeply relevant in today’s world, making it an enduring classic.
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Oh, Pretty Woman song by Roy Orbison Lyrics
Pretty woman, walkin’ down the streetPretty woman the kind I like to meetPretty woman I don’t believe you, you’re not the truthNo one could look as good as you, mercyPretty woman won’t you pardon mePretty woman I couldn’t help but seePretty woman that you look lovely as can beAre you lonely just like mePretty woman stop awhilePretty woman talk awhilePretty woman give your smile to mePretty woman yeah, yeah, yeahPretty woman look my wayPretty woman say you’ll stay with me‘Cause I need you, I’ll treat you rightCome with me baby, be mine tonightPretty woman don’t walk on byPretty woman don’t make me cryPretty woman don’t walk away, hey, OKIf that’s the way it must be, OKI guess I’ll go on home, it’s lateThere’ll be tomorrow night, but waitWhat do I see?Is she walkin’ back to me?Yeah, she’s walkin’ back to meOh, oh, pretty woman.
Pretty woman, walkin’ down the streetPretty woman the kind I like to meetPretty woman I don’t believe you, you’re not the truthNo one could look as good as you, mercyPretty woman won’t you pardon mePretty woman I couldn’t help but seePretty woman that you look lovely as can beAre you lonely just like mePretty woman stop awhilePretty woman talk awhilePretty woman give your smile to mePretty woman yeah, yeah, yeahPretty woman look my wayPretty woman say you’ll stay with me‘Cause I need you, I’ll treat you rightCome with me baby, be mine tonightPretty woman don’t walk on byPretty woman don’t make me cryPretty woman don’t walk away, hey, OKIf that’s the way it must be, OKI guess I’ll go on home, it’s lateThere’ll be tomorrow night, but waitWhat do I see?Is she walkin’ back to me?Yeah, she’s walkin’ back to meOh, oh, pretty woman.