About the song
“Blue Velvet” stands as an enduring classic, originally composed by Bernie Wayne and Lee Morris in 1950. This iconic song has traversed generations, gaining prominence with various renditions, most notably Bobby Vinton’s chart-topping version in 1963.
The genesis of “Blue Velvet” traces back to Bernie Wayne’s inspiration during a visit to Richmond, Virginia in 1951, where he stayed at the Jefferson Hotel. It was there, at a hotel party, that Wayne was captivated by a woman dressed in blue velvet, sparking the idea for a romantic narrative that would resonate through his music.
The song’s journey began with Tony Bennett’s rendition in 1951, introduced to Columbia Records by co-writer Bernie Wayne himself. The opening line, “She wore blue velvet,” caught the attention of A&R head Mitch Miller, leading to its recording with Percy Faith’s orchestra. Bennett’s version peaked at number 16 on Billboard’s Most Played by Jockeys chart and number 18 on the Best Selling Pop Singles chart, cementing its initial success.
“Blue Velvet” quickly became a favorite for cover artists, including Arthur Prysock and others, demonstrating its universal appeal across various vocal styles and interpretations. Yet, it was Bobby Vinton’s rendition that truly catapulted the song to iconic status. Produced with Burt Bacharach and his Orchestra, Vinton’s recording soared to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in September 1963, where it remained for two consecutive weeks. Beyond the United States, Vinton’s version also topped the Middle-Road Singles chart for eight weeks, further solidifying its popularity.
Vinton’s decision to record “Blue Velvet” was initially driven by a suggestion from his music publisher, Al Gallico, who sensed its potential amidst Vinton’s skepticism. Surprisingly, it became a defining track on Vinton’s album “Blue on Blue,” leading to a cascade of “blue”-themed hits that followed.
Over the years, “Blue Velvet” has continued to captivate audiences, evidenced by its resurgence in 1990 when it reached number two on the UK Singles Chart following a television advertisement for Nivea. Its timeless appeal lies in its evocative lyrics, complemented by Vinton’s emotive delivery and the lush orchestration that underpins its melancholic beauty.
Today, “Blue Velvet” remains a testament to the enduring power of classic pop songs, resonating with listeners across generations and reaffirming its place as a quintessential piece in the tapestry of American music history. Bobby Vinton’s rendition, in particular, stands as a pinnacle of his career, defining him as an artist capable of translating deep emotional narratives into universally beloved melodies.b
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Lyrics
She wore blue velvet
Bluer than velvet was the night
Softer than satin was the light
From the starsShe wore blue velvet
Bluer than velvet were her eyes
Warmer than May, her tender sighs
Love was oursOurs, a love I held tightly
Feeling the rapture grow
Like a flame burning brightly
But when she left gone was the glow ofBlue velvet
But in my heart there’ll always be
Precious and warm a memory through the years
And I still can see blue velvet through my tearsShe wore blue velvet
But in my heart there’ll always be
Precious and warm a memory through the years
And I still can see blue velvet through my tears(Blue velvet, ooh)