The Making of ‘Oh, Pretty Woman’: A Glimpse into Roy Orbison’s Genius

Released in August 1964, Roy Orbison’s “Oh, Pretty Woman” quickly became a defining track of the rock ‘n’ roll era. Co-written with Bill Dees, the song is renowned for its catchy guitar riff and Orbison’s distinctive vocals. Inspired by a comment from Orbison’s wife, Claudette, the track captures the experience of admiring a beautiful woman passing by. Its universal appeal and memorable melody have ensured its place as one of the most enduring songs in popular music.

Oh, Pretty Woman

• Inspiration Behind the Song: The idea for “Oh, Pretty Woman” came about when Orbison’s wife, Claudette, interrupted a conversation to announce she was going out. When Orbison asked if she had enough cash, co-writer Bill Dees remarked, “A pretty woman never needs any money.” This offhand comment sparked the creation of the song.
• Recording Session: The track was recorded on August 1, 1964, at Monument Records’ studio in Nashville. The session featured notable musicians, including Billy Sanford, who played the iconic guitar riff, and Floyd Cramer on piano.
• Chart Success: “Oh, Pretty Woman” spent three weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1964, becoming Orbison’s second single to top the US charts. It also reached number one in the UK and sold over seven million copies worldwide.
• Cultural Impact: The song’s enduring popularity was further cemented when it was featured in the 1990 film “Pretty Woman,” starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, introducing the classic to a new generation.
• Awards and Honors: In 1999, “Oh, Pretty Woman” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Additionally, in 2008, the Library of Congress selected the song for preservation in the National Recording Registry, recognizing its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance.

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