Roy Orbison’s “Oh, Pretty Woman,” captured live in the “Monument Concert 1965,” is a vibrant testament to the artist’s vocal prowess and enduring stage presence. Orbison, known for his distinctive, operatic voice, dark sunglasses, and emotionally charged ballads, was a rock and roll pioneer who defied easy categorization. This particular live recording offers a raw and energetic rendition of a song that cemented his place in music history.
“Oh, Pretty Woman,” co-written by Orbison and Bill Dees, tells a simple story of a man captivated by a beautiful woman walking down the street. He expresses his admiration and hope, culminating in a moment of potential connection, only to be left with a sense of bittersweet longing as she walks away. The song’s iconic guitar riff, instantly recognizable, and Orbison’s powerful, soaring vocals are central to its appeal.
The song was a massive commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1964 and staying there for three weeks. It also topped charts in numerous other countries, solidifying Orbison’s international stardom. Decades later, in 1991, Orbison was posthumously awarded a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for the live recording of this song, featured in his 1988 HBO special “A Black and White Night.”
The “Monument Concert 1965” performance highlights the energy of the era. You can almost hear the palpable excitement of the audience, swept away by Orbison’s captivating delivery. The recording is a perfect snapshot, showing his vocal range and emotional intensity. It is considered the best performance of the artist.