“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine a night where musical legends gather, their camaraderie and shared passion creating an unforgettable experience. That’s precisely what happened during Roy Orbison’s “Black & White Night” concert in 1987. The evening culminated with a performance of “Oh, Pretty Woman” that still resonates with fans today.
Originally released in 1964, “Oh, Pretty Woman” quickly became one of Orbison’s most iconic songs, celebrated for its catchy guitar riff and Orbison’s distinctive vocals. The song’s inspiration came from a casual remark by Orbison’s co-writer, Bill Dees, leading to a timeless hit that topped charts worldwide.
Fast forward to September 30, 1987, at the Cocoanut Grove nightclub in Los Angeles. Orbison, accompanied by an ensemble of musical greats—including Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, and k.d. lang—delivered a rendition of “Oh, Pretty Woman” that was both electrifying and heartfelt. The black-and-white filming added a classic touch, highlighting the timelessness of the performance.
This concert not only showcased Orbison’s enduring talent but also celebrated the collaborative spirit of musicians across generations. The “Black & White Night” version of “Oh, Pretty Woman” stands as a testament to Orbison’s lasting impact on music and his ability to bring artists together in a shared musical journey.
For those who wish to experience this remarkable performance, here’s the video from that unforgettable night:
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