Bobby Vinton – Blue Velvet

About the song

Bobby Vinton‘s rendition of “Blue Velvet” is an enchanting journey into the romantic nostalgia of the early 1960s. Released in August 1963, this song became one of Vinton’s most enduring hits, capturing the hearts of listeners with its lush orchestration and Vinton’s smooth, velvety voice.

“Blue Velvet” is the title track of Vinton’s 1963 album, also named Blue Velvet. The song itself, however, has a history that predates Vinton’s version. Originally written by Bernie Wayne and Lee Morris, it was first recorded by Tony Bennett in 1951. Despite its earlier versions, it was Vinton’s interpretation that catapulted the song to new heights of popularity. Vinton’s version reached the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remained there for three weeks, solidifying its place as a classic in the American pop music canon.

The meaning of “Blue Velvet” centers around a romanticized memory of a past love, symbolized by the blue velvet fabric. The lyrics, “She wore blue velvet / Bluer than velvet was the night,” evoke a sense of timeless elegance and wistful longing. The song paints a picture of an unforgettable romance, where the color blue represents both the depth of the love and the sadness of its end. This duality is a key aspect of the song’s emotional impact, resonating deeply with listeners who have experienced the bittersweet nature of love.

The social influence of “Blue Velvet” extends beyond its initial success in the 1960s. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the decades, each bringing their unique touch to the timeless melody. Its haunting beauty also inspired filmmaker David Lynch, who used the song prominently in his 1986 film “Blue Velvet,” bringing it to the attention of a new generation and cementing its place in popular culture.

Musically, “Blue Velvet” is characterized by its lush orchestration and Vinton’s tender, expressive vocal performance. The arrangement features sweeping strings and a gentle rhythm that complement the song’s dreamy, nostalgic quality. Vinton’s voice, with its smooth, rich timbre, conveys the song’s emotions perfectly, making it easy for listeners to get lost in the sentimental reverie of the lyrics.

Bobby Vinton himself was already a well-established artist by the time he recorded “Blue Velvet,” known for his ability to deliver romantic ballads with heartfelt sincerity. His interpretation of “Blue Velvet” exemplifies his talent for infusing songs with genuine emotion, making each note and phrase resonate with listeners.

In conclusion, “Blue Velvet” by Bobby Vinton is a masterful blend of music and emotion that has stood the test of time. Its release in 1963 marked a high point in Vinton’s career and left an indelible mark on the music landscape. The song’s exploration of love and loss, combined with its beautiful arrangement and Vinton’s impeccable delivery, make it a perennial favorite. Whether reminiscing about the past or discovering it anew, “Blue Velvet” continues to captivate and enchant listeners, ensuring its place in the pantheon of classic love songs.

Video

Lyrics

She wore blue velvet
Bluer than velvet was the night
Softer than satin was the light
From the stars

She wore blue velvet
Bluer than velvet were her eyes
Warmer than May, her tender sighs
Love was ours

Ours, a love I held tightly
Feeling the rapture grow
Like a flame burning brightly
But when she left gone was the glow of

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

She 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)