About the song
Roy Orbison: A Timeless Serenade at Farm Aid
There’s something undeniably romantic and nostalgic about the sound of Roy Orbison’s voice. His rich, baritone vocals, combined with his signature dramatic phrasing, have made him a beloved figure in the world of music. And when it comes to his iconic hit, “Oh, Pretty Woman,” there’s no denying its enduring appeal.
Performed live at Farm Aid in 1985, Orbison’s rendition of “Oh, Pretty Woman” is a testament to his extraordinary talent. The song, originally released in 1964, has become a staple of classic rock radio and has been covered countless times by artists from various genres. However, it’s Orbison’s original version that truly captures the essence of the song.
The Farm Aid performance offers a unique glimpse into Orbison’s artistry. The raw energy of the live setting, coupled with the heartfelt emotion in his voice, creates a truly unforgettable listening experience. The song’s simple yet effective lyrics, combined with Orbison’s soaring vocals, tell the story of a man instantly smitten by a beautiful woman. It’s a tale as old as time, but Orbison’s interpretation gives it a fresh and contemporary feel.
One of the most striking aspects of Orbison’s performance is his ability to convey a wide range of emotions. From the initial awe and wonder he feels upon seeing the “pretty woman” to the determination to win her heart, Orbison’s vocals effortlessly capture every nuance of the song. The backing band provides a solid foundation for Orbison’s performance, with their tight harmonies and driving rhythm section adding to the overall energy of the song.
The live setting of Farm Aid also adds a unique dimension to the performance. The concert, which was organized by a group of country music artists to raise funds for family farmers, brought together some of the biggest names in music. Orbison’s appearance at the event was a highlight of the show, and his performance of “Oh, Pretty Woman” is a reminder of the power of music to bring people together.
In conclusion, Roy Orbison’s live performance of “Oh, Pretty Woman” at Farm Aid 1985 is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Orbison’s extraordinary vocal talent, combined with the song’s infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics, make it a truly unforgettable listening experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Orbison’s music or simply appreciate great songwriting, this performance is a must-listen.
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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