The Meaning Behind The Song: Some Velvet Morning by Nancy Sinatra & Lee Hazlewood
“Some Velvet Morning” is a psychedelic pop song performed by Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood in 1967. The song is known for its eerie, dreamlike quality that leaves the listener with a sense of unease and uncertainty, thanks to the haunting melodies and lyrics. In this article, we will explore the meaning behind the song, the inspiration behind it, and the impact it had on the music industry.
The Backstory Behind “Some Velvet Morning”
“Some Velvet Morning” was written by Lee Hazlewood, who initially intended to perform the song with his then-girlfriend Suzi Jane Hokom. However, he later decided to collaborate with Nancy Sinatra instead, and the original recording was born.
The song was recorded during a time when Sinatra and Hazlewood were at the peak of their careers. Sinatra had a string of successful hits, including “These Boots Are Made For Walkin’,” while Hazlewood had worked with a variety of artists, including Duane Eddy and Gram Parsons. The two were known for their friendship and easy working relationship, despite their differing styles of music.
The Meaning Behind “Some Velvet Morning”
The meaning behind “Some Velvet Morning” is open to interpretation and has sparked a lasting debate among music fans and critics alike. The lyrics describe a surreal landscape, partially inspired by the works of Lewis Carroll, where a woman and a man meet in the morning in a dreamlike state. The woman, described as “rowdy,” wears a “velvet” dress, while the man is likened to “a prince.”
Some interpret the song to be about a woman who has come to terms with a past lover. Others believe it to be about a woman who is questioning her current relationship with a prince, or about a woman’s quest for fulfillment.
The Musical Arrangement
“Some Velvet Morning” is a combination of several musical styles, including country, pop, and psychedelia. The arrangement features an orchestra and a string section, which adds to the song’s ethereal quality. The verse sections of the song are relatively simple, while the chorus is more complex, featuring multiple layers of instrumentation.
The Legacy of “Some Velvet Morning”
“Some Velvet Morning” has left a lasting impression on the music industry. The song has been covered by a variety of artists, including Primal Scream and Slowdive, and has been used in films, television shows, and advertising campaigns. It continues to be a favorite among music fans and is considered a classic of the psychedelic era.
FAQs
What inspired Lee Hazlewood to write “Some Velvet Morning”?
Lee Hazlewood wrote “Some Velvet Morning” during a period of great inspiration. The song was partially inspired by the psychedelic culture of the 1960s, as well as the works of Lewis Carroll. Hazlewood has said that the song’s lyrics were intended to evoke a dreamlike state, and that he wanted to create a sense of mystery and ambiguity.
How did Nancy Sinatra become involved in the project?
Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood had collaborated on a number of successful recordings prior to “Some Velvet Morning,” and Hazlewood believed that Sinatra would be the perfect vocalist for the song. Sinatra agreed to collaborate, and the pair worked together to record the track.
What is the meaning behind the lyrics of “Some Velvet Morning”?
The meaning behind the lyrics of “Some Velvet Morning” is open to interpretation. Some believe that the song is about a woman who has come to terms with a past lover, while others interpret it to be about a woman’s quest for fulfillment. The lyrics evoke a dreamlike atmosphere, adding to the ambiguity of the song’s meaning.
What is the significance of the song’s musical arrangement?
“Some Velvet Morning” is known for its combination of musical styles, including country, pop, and psychedelia. The arrangement features an orchestra and a string section, which adds to the song’s ethereal quality. The musical arrangement enhances the song’s dreamlike atmosphere and has contributed to its enduring popularity.
Has “Some Velvet Morning” been covered by other artists?
Yes, “Some Velvet Morning” has been covered by a variety of artists over the years, including Primal Scream, Slowdive, and David Bowie. The song’s enduring popularity and wide appeal have made it a favorite among musicians and fans alike.
What impact did “Some Velvet Morning” have on the music industry?
“Some Velvet Morning” was influential in the development of the psychedelic pop genre and has been cited as a classic of the era. The song’s unique musical arrangement and surreal lyrics have inspired countless artists over the years and continue to be celebrated for their innovation and creativity.
Why is “Some Velvet Morning” still popular today?
“Some Velvet Morning” continues to be popular today because of its unique blend of musical styles and its enduring mystery. The lyrics are open to interpretation, and the song’s dreamlike atmosphere continues to captivate audiences of all ages. Additionally, the song’s inclusion in films, television shows, and advertising campaigns has helped to keep it in the public eye.
What was the critical and commercial reception of “Some Velvet Morning”?
“Some Velvet Morning” received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its experimental sound and others criticizing its lack of structure. The song was a moderate commercial success, reaching number 26 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
What has Nancy Sinatra said about “Some Velvet Morning” over the years?
Nancy Sinatra has spoken fondly about “Some Velvet Morning” over the years, calling it one of her favorite recordings. She has said that she enjoyed collaborating with Lee Hazlewood on the song and that she is proud of its enduring popularity and influence.
How did “Some Velvet Morning” impact the career of Nancy Sinatra?
“Some Velvet Morning” helped to consolidate Nancy Sinatra’s position as a successful pop vocalist. Prior to the song’s release, she had already achieved success with hits like “These Boots Are Made For Walkin’,” but her collaboration with Lee Hazlewood on “Some Velvet Morning” helped to establish her as a versatile artist with a unique sound.
What are some other songs that are similar in style and theme to “Some Velvet Morning”?
“Some Velvet Morning” is a unique song that blends elements of pop, country, and psychedelia. Other songs that share similar qualities include “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” by The Beatles and “White Rabbit” by Jefferson Airplane. These songs all feature surreal lyrics and a dreamlike atmosphere.
