About the Song
Roy Orbison, the man with the velvet voice. We all know him for those powerful ballads that could make your heart ache and soar in the same breath. But did you know he had a bit of a rocker in him too? Today, we’re going to take a listen to a lesser-known gem from his catalogue, a song that shows a different side of the “Oh, Pretty Woman” singer. This one’s called “Mean Woman Blues”.
Released in 1957, “Mean Woman Blues” came out at a time when Orbison was still finding his footing as a solo artist. It wasn’t a huge hit on the charts, but it’s a song that has become a favorite among fans for its raw energy and glimpse into a different kind of Orbison character. Here, we find him singing not about a love that lifts him up, but about a woman who’s got him down on his luck.
Now, Orbison wasn’t one to shy away from emotional turmoil in his songs, but “Mean Woman Blues” tackles it with a rock and roll swagger. The guitars churn, the drums pound, and Orbison lets loose with that powerful voice, channeling his frustration into a bluesy lament. So, if you’re looking for a different side of the “Big O,” put on “Mean Woman Blues” and get ready to hear a Roy Orbison you might not have expected.