Roy Orbison, the bespectacled Texan with the operatic voice and penchant for dark sunglasses, cemented his legendary status with the 1964 smash hit, “Oh, Pretty Woman.” Orbison, known for his dramatic ballads and innovative use of strings and orchestration, had already established himself as a force in the early rock and roll scene with hits like “Only the Lonely” and “Running Scared.” But “Oh, Pretty Woman” propelled him to a new level of international stardom.
The song, co-written by Orbison and Bill Dees, was a runaway success. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 for three weeks, reaching number one in several other countries as well. It quickly became Orbison’s signature song and one of the most recognizable and iconic tracks of the 1960s. Its enduring popularity led to its inclusion in numerous films, most notably the 1990 romantic comedy “Pretty Woman,” further cementing its place in popular culture.
“Oh, Pretty Woman” tells a simple yet captivating story: a man captivated by a beautiful woman walking down the street. It captures the moment of infatuation, the hope for connection, and the vulnerability of love at first sight. The song’s appeal lies in its relatability; everyone can identify with the experience of being struck by someone’s beauty.
Audience reaction to “Oh, Pretty Woman” was overwhelmingly positive, and remains so to this day. Its catchy guitar riff, Orbison’s powerful vocals, and the song’s optimistic message combined to create a timeless classic. Fans praised the song for its energy, its romance, and its sheer singalong quality. Critics lauded Orbison’s vocal performance and the song’s innovative blend of rock and roll with a touch of operatic drama. Ultimately, “Oh, Pretty Woman” resonated with listeners across generations, becoming a lasting testament to Roy Orbison’s enduring talent and his ability to capture universal emotions in song.