About the Song
Roy Orbison. The name itself conjures up a sound – that rich, powerful baritone, soaring vocals that could shatter hearts and mend them in the same breath. Orbison’s music, often a blend of rockabilly and operatic flourishes, became synonymous with a certain brand of melodrama – tales of love lost, longing, and the exquisite pain of heartbreak.
Today, we’re going to delve into one of Orbison’s lesser-known gems, a song that perfectly captures that signature blend of vulnerability and raw emotion: (They Call You) Gigolette. Released in 1961, Gigolette might not have reached the same stratospheric heights as some of Orbison’s other hits, but it offers a fascinating glimpse into the early days of his career.
The term “gigolette” itself is an interesting one. It’s a French word that can refer to a dancer, a young woman, or even someone who is flirtatious or frivolous. In the context of the song, it takes on a slightly more negative connotation, hinting at a woman who is alluring but ultimately untrustworthy.
So, we have the stage set: a heartbroken man, captivated by a woman with a reputation. (They Call You) Gigolette is a story about the allure of the forbidden, the intoxicating power of someone who might be bad for you.