About the song
“Oh, Pretty Woman,” immortalized by Roy Orbison in August 1964, remains a timeless classic in the annals of rock and roll history. Co-written by Orbison and Bill Dees, the song swiftly ascended to the top of the charts, spending three weeks as number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and marking Orbison’s second and final single to achieve this feat in the United States.
The genesis of “Oh, Pretty Woman” was inspired by a casual remark from Orbison’s wife, Claudette, who confidently stated that a pretty woman never needs money. This offhand comment sparked the creative collaboration between Orbison and Dees, resulting in a song that not only became a massive commercial success but also solidified Orbison’s reputation as a masterful storyteller through music.
Musically, “Oh, Pretty Woman” is distinguished by its infectious guitar riff, played by Billy Sanford, which instantly hooks listeners from the opening bars. The song’s upbeat tempo and Orbison’s distinctive vocal delivery captivated audiences, earning praise for its “great dance beat” and “fine arrangement,” as described by Billboard and Cash Box, respectively.
The song’s impact transcended its initial release, influencing popular culture in significant ways. It inspired the title of the iconic 1990 film “Pretty Woman,” starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, and its subsequent Broadway musical adaptation in 2018. Additionally, “Oh, Pretty Woman” has been recognized for its enduring cultural significance, with accolades such as induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame and inclusion in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s “500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll.”
The song’s legacy also includes a landmark legal case that expanded the concept of fair use in copyright law. When Miami bass group 2 Live Crew released a parody version titled “Pretty Woman,” Orbison’s music publisher initially sued for copyright infringement. However, the United States Supreme Court ruled in favor of 2 Live Crew in 1994, affirming that their parody constituted fair use, thereby setting a precedent that has since influenced copyright law regarding parodies created for profit.
In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine recognized “Oh, Pretty Woman” as one of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” cementing its place in music history. Moreover, the Library of Congress selected the song for preservation in the National Recording Registry in 2008, further underscoring its cultural and artistic significance.
“Oh, Pretty Woman” continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, its infectious melody and timeless lyrics ensuring its place as an enduring classic that transcends generations. Roy Orbison’s masterful interpretation and the song’s universal appeal have secured its status as a beloved piece of rock and roll heritage, celebrated for its creativity, influence, and lasting impact on popular music.
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