About the song
Roy Orbison – Oh, Pretty Woman (Live 1988) is a timeless classic performed by the legendary singer and songwriter, Roy Orbison. Originally released in August 1964, "Oh, Pretty Woman" became one of Orbison’s most iconic songs. Co-written with Bill Dees, the track shot to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 charts where it stayed for three weeks. The song’s distinctive guitar riff, combined with Orbison’s signature operatic vocal range, made it an international hit. It also topped music charts in the UK, Canada, Australia, and several other countries.
In the decades since its release, “Oh, Pretty Woman” has cemented its place in music history as a rock & roll classic. It earned Orbison a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Vocal Performance, Male in 1965. The live version performed in 1988 holds special significance, as it was part of Orbison’s acclaimed concert series that marked a revival of his career. At the time, Orbison was also working with the supergroup the Traveling Wilburys, showcasing his timeless voice to a brand-new generation of fans.
This widely celebrated song is known for its instantly recognizable hook and playful story about a man admiring a beautiful woman walking down the street. The live 1988 version highlights Roy Orbison’s unparalleled vocal abilities, with added emotion and maturity in his delivery after years of performing. It serves as a masterful example of his live stage presence and talent.
“Oh, Pretty Woman” has been featured in pop culture extensively, with prominent appearances in commercials, movies like Pretty Woman (1990)—which further popularized the song—and countless covers by artists across generations. Whether as a studio recording or as Roy Orbison – Oh, Pretty Woman (Live 1988), the song remains a beloved staple in the history of rock and roll music.
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