About the song
Roy Orbison – Oh, Pretty Woman (Live at Farm Aid 1985) is a stunning live performance of one of the most iconic songs in rock and roll history. Originally released in 1964, "Oh, Pretty Woman" was co-written by legendary artist Roy Orbison and Bill Dees. The song became an instant hit, spending three weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It was also a massive success internationally, charting in multiple countries and cementing Orbison’s reputation as a true pioneer of rock and pop music.
The track is celebrated for its infectious rhythm, compelling guitar riffs, and Orbison’s unforgettable vocal delivery. The powerful and emotional voice of Roy Orbison was a driving factor in the song’s success, with his ability to fluidly shift from deep baritone to the high dramatic notes captivating audiences worldwide. Many consider "Oh, Pretty Woman" to be a cornerstone of 1960s pop music.
This live version, performed at Farm Aid in 1985, showcases Roy Orbison’s enduring talent and ability to command an audience even decades after the song’s original release. Farm Aid, a concert series founded to support American farmers, provided a perfect platform for Orbison to deliver a nostalgic yet electrifying rendition of his classic. Seeing him perform live added a layer of raw energy and authenticity to a song already embedded in music history.
"Oh, Pretty Woman" later earned critical acclaim beyond its chart-topping success. It won Roy Orbison a Grammy Award for his lifetime achievement, which acknowledged his tremendous influence on music. It was also listed as one of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll and remains a beloved staple in popular culture. The live version of this track from Farm Aid 1985 is a testament to Roy Orbison’s legacy and his mastery as a performer.
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