The Meaning Behind The Song: Black Velvet by Alannah Myles
“Black velvet and that little boy’s smile
Black velvet with that slow southern style
A new religion that’ll bring ya to your knees
Black velvet if you please”
These iconic lyrics belong to none other than Alannah Myles’ 1989 hit song, “Black Velvet”. Her powerhouse vocals, combined with the electrifying guitar riffs, made the track an instant classic. To this day, it remains one of the most memorable songs of the late 1980s.
The Origins of the Song
Alannah Myles co-wrote the song with Canadian songwriter and musician Christopher Ward. Ward famously wrote The Black Eyed Peas’ “Where Is the Love?” and composes music for TV shows and movies to this day. The song was featured on Alannah Myles’ self-titled debut album and quickly became a fan favorite. Within months of its release, “Black Velvet” had racked up numerous accolades, including a Grammy award for Best Rock Vocal Performance by a Female Artist. It was also a chart-topping success both in Canada and the United States.
The Inspiration Behind “Black Velvet”
But what inspired this timeless anthem? Was it a heartbreak or a love story? Or maybe, just a catchy tune that caught the public’s attention? In reality, the story behind “Black Velvet” is much more interesting than what meets the eye. The song was actually written about the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley.
Alannah Myles was a huge fan of Elvis and the song is a tribute to him. In the first verse, Myles paints a picture of Elvis in his signature black velvet jumpsuits and the adoring gaze of his fans. The song perfectly captures the essence of Elvis’ unique Southern charm and charisma. Myles herself said in an interview with The Globe and Mail that the idea for the song struck her while she was on tour in Memphis, Tennessee. She explains, “When you go to Memphis, there’s a kind of a shrine to Elvis everywhere”. Myles visited Graceland, Elvis’ home and burial site, and was inspired by the extravagant, yet mournful atmosphere.
The Legacy of “Black Velvet”
Almost 32 years after its release, “Black Velvet” continues to strike a chord with music lovers around the world. The song has been covered by various artists, including Robin Lee, Melissa Etheridge, and many more. It’s been used in movies and TV shows, including The Sopranos and Ripper Street. But most importantly, the song has become a part of the cultural zeitgeist and an integral part of rock and roll history. It’s recognized as one of the greatest musical tributes ever written and serves as a testament to the power of true fan appreciation.
Conclusion: The Impact of “Black Velvet”
“Black Velvet” is an unforgettable song that takes you back to the golden age of rock and roll. It’s a timeless classic that transcends generations and continues to inspire new artists each year. The song’s poignant lyrics, coupled with Alannah Myles’ sultry vocals and Christopher Ward’s catchy tune, make it an iconic and unforgettable anthem. More than just an ode to Elvis Presley, it’s a celebration of the spirit of rock and roll itself. As Alannah Myles herself said, “Rock and roll is something that comes from within—it lives inside you. It’s not something you do, it’s who you are”. And in that spirit, “Black Velvet” will forever be remembered as one of the greatest rock and roll songs of all time.
