“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Have you ever heard a song that made you want to walk with a bit more confidence? That’s what Oh, Pretty Woman does every time it plays. It’s as if the world brightens up, and suddenly everyone’s looking for their own “pretty woman” walking down the street. When Roy Orbison and his co-writer, Bill Dees, composed this song, they had no idea it would become a timeless anthem that defines romance and admiration.
About The Composition
- Title: Oh, Pretty Woman
- Composer: Roy Orbison and Bill Dees
- Premiere Date: August 1964
- Album: Oh, Pretty Woman (Single)
- Genre: Rock and Roll / Pop
Background
Written in 1964, Oh, Pretty Woman is a song inspired by Orbison’s wife, Claudette. As the story goes, Claudette walked into the room and announced that she was going out shopping, to which Orbison casually replied, “A pretty woman never needs to buy anything.” This moment sparked the song’s creation, as Orbison and Dees began to playfully work on the melody and lyrics. The song was recorded and released as a single, quickly climbing the charts to become a number-one hit in multiple countries. Its success marked a pinnacle in Orbison’s career, solidifying his reputation as one of the most powerful voices in rock and roll.
Musical Style
The song’s signature guitar riff, created by Billy Sanford, instantly grabs the listener’s attention and sets a rhythmic tone that propels the song forward. Orbison’s vocal delivery is another key element, shifting seamlessly between his deep, resonant voice and his soaring, powerful falsetto. The song’s structure is straightforward, with a verse-chorus format, but it’s Orbison’s unique phrasing and the melodic playfulness that make it unforgettable. The steady bassline and energetic percussion keep the momentum lively, giving the song an almost strutting quality.
Lyrics Analysis
The lyrics of Oh, Pretty Woman are simple yet impactful, depicting a man’s admiration for a beautiful woman passing by. He wonders if she’s as lonely as he is, hoping she’ll stop and maybe give him a smile. There’s a sense of yearning and boldness in the words, capturing the thrill and vulnerability of being captivated by someone from afar. The chorus—“Pretty woman, walking down the street, pretty woman, the kind I’d like to meet”—is iconic, making it one of the most recognizable refrains in pop music.
Performance History
From its debut in 1964, Oh, Pretty Woman became a staple in Roy Orbison’s live performances. One of the most notable performances was during Orbison’s 1988 concert, Black & White Night, where he sang it alongside legends like Bruce Springsteen and Elvis Costello. The song’s influence spread globally, with artists from Van Halen to Al Green covering it, each adding their unique spin while keeping its original charm intact.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its initial success, Oh, Pretty Woman found renewed popularity in the 1990s when it was featured in the film Pretty Woman, starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. The movie catapulted the song to a new level of fame, introducing it to a younger generation. The song’s upbeat rhythm and catchy melody have made it a favorite in commercials, TV shows, and even video games, symbolizing the allure and excitement of romantic encounters. Its infectious energy and timeless appeal have made it a beloved part of pop culture.
Legacy
Oh, Pretty Woman remains one of Roy Orbison’s most celebrated songs, a masterpiece of rock and roll that has transcended generations. Its inclusion in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999 is a testament to its enduring significance. The song’s influence can be seen in countless covers, parodies, and references, proving that its simple yet powerful appeal resonates just as deeply today as it did in the 1960s.
Conclusion
Oh, Pretty Woman is more than just a catchy tune—it’s a reminder of the magic and thrill of a chance encounter, of the moment someone catches your eye and makes the world pause for just a beat. With its irresistible melody and Roy Orbison’s soulful delivery, this song will continue to be a beacon of charm and romance for generations to come. If you haven’t yet, listen to the original recording or check out Orbison’s live performance from Black & White Night—it’s a moment of musical history you won’t want to miss.
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