Introduction
Roy Orbison was an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist who began his music career in the 1950s.
In 1964, he released “Oh, Pretty Woman,” which became his biggest international hit and one of the most memorable songs of the 1960s.
With its unforgettable guitar riff, catchy rhythm, and powerful vocals, the song remains a rock and roll classic.
Why You Should Listen
If you enjoy classic rock and roll with a catchy melody and a powerful voice, “Oh, Pretty Woman” is definitely worth listening to.
The song begins with one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in rock and roll history. Its driving beat immediately catches your attention, while Roy Orbison’s rich and distinctive voice gives the song a special charm.
Another highlight is the way the song tells a simple romantic story.
Orbison sings about seeing a beautiful woman walking down the street and hoping she will notice him.
The combination of its lively rhythm, memorable melody, and playful lyrics makes this song enjoyable even after many listens.
More than 60 years after its release, “Oh, Pretty Woman” still sounds fresh and exciting.
Highlights
- Unforgettable opening guitar riff
- Roy Orbison’s powerful and distinctive vocals
- Catchy rock and roll rhythm
- Simple and playful romantic lyrics
- Worldwide No. 1 hit in 1964
- Featured in the 1990 Hollywood movie Pretty Woman
About the Song
“Oh, Pretty Woman” was written by Roy Orbison and Bill Dees and released as a single by Roy Orbison in August 1964.
According to the story behind the song, its title was inspired by Orbison’s wife, Claudette. The idea developed during a conversation between Orbison and Dees.
The song became a massive international success. It topped the US Billboard Hot 100 for three weeks and also spent three weeks at No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart.
It also reached No. 1 in several other countries, including Canada, Australia, Ireland, West Germany, Belgium, Norway, and New Zealand.
With worldwide sales estimated at around seven million copies, it became the biggest hit of Orbison’s career.
The song’s popularity continued long after its original release.
In 1982, the American rock band Van Halen released a cover version, which reached No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100.
In 1990, the original recording gained renewed attention when it was featured in the Hollywood romantic comedy Pretty Woman, starring Richard Gere and Julia Roberts.
The song has also been covered by many other artists in different musical styles.
These recordings and appearances helped introduce “Oh, Pretty Woman” to new generations of listeners.
About the Artist
Roy Kelton Orbison was born on April 23, 1936, in Vernon, Texas.
He was an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist known for his remarkable vocal range and emotional singing style.
He began performing in country and western bands during his teenage years and signed with Sun Records in 1956.
Although his early recordings did not achieve major commercial success, his career changed after he joined Monument Records in 1959.
In 1960, he released “Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel),” which became his first major international hit. It reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 1 in the United Kingdom. During the early 1960s, Orbison enjoyed a series of successful singles, including “Running Scared,” “Crying,” “In Dreams,” and “Oh, Pretty Woman.” “Running Scared” and “Oh, Pretty Woman” both reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
However, his career experienced a decline in the late 1960s and 1970s.
He also suffered several personal tragedies during this period. In the 1980s, Orbison began to regain popularity. Don McLean’s successful cover of “Crying” in 1980 helped introduce Orbison’s music to a new generation.
Orbison also gained renewed attention through television appearances, recordings, and collaborations with other musicians.
In 1987, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In 1988, Orbison joined the supergroup The Traveling Wilburys, alongside George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne, and Tom Petty.
Their debut album, Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1, was released in October 1988 and included the popular songs “Handle with Care” and “End of the Line.” Sadly, Orbison died of a heart attack on December 6, 1988, at the age of 52.
After his death, his solo album Mystery Girl was released in 1989.
It included the hit single “You Got It,” which became another major success. The surviving members of The Traveling Wilburys continued recording and released Traveling Wilburys Vol. 3 in 1990. Despite his untimely death, Roy Orbison’s music continues to influence singers and songwriters around the world.
Conclusion
Roy Orbison’s music career was filled with both great success and difficult times, but his remarkable voice and unforgettable songs have left a lasting legacy.
Among his many hits, “Oh, Pretty Woman” stands out as one of the most exciting and recognizable rock and roll songs of the 1960s.
Its catchy guitar riff, lively rhythm, and powerful vocals make it a timeless classic.
If you have never listened to Roy Orbison before, “Oh, Pretty Woman” is a great place to start.
And if you enjoy his music, I also recommend listening to “End of the Line” by The Traveling Wilburys, where you can hear Orbison alongside four other legendary musicians.
Give it a listen and enjoy the timeless sound of Roy Orbison!
Video courtesy of the official YouTube channel.