Introduction
Conway Twitty, the name itself evokes a rich baritone, a touch of Southern charm, and a career that transcended genres. But within his vast catalogue of country classics, one song stands out for its surprising origin and enduring popularity: Slow Hand.
A Pop Gem Reborn as Country Gold
Released in 1982, Slow Hand wasn’t originally a country tune. It belonged to the world of soulful pop, a chart-topping hit for the iconic girl group, The Pointer Sisters, just a year prior. The song, written by the talented duo of John Bettis and Michael Clark, was a simmering exploration of female desire, a plea for a lover’s gentle touch.
So, why would a country giant like Conway Twitty take a chance on a song seemingly tailored for a different audience? The answer lies in Twitty’s remarkable ability to navigate musical boundaries. Throughout his career, he embraced elements of rockabilly and pop, weaving them into the tapestry of his country sound. Slow Hand presented a unique opportunity – a chance to deliver a familiar melody with a fresh, country perspective.
Twitty’s version of Slow Hand wasn’t a radical departure. The core melody remained, as did the suggestive lyrics, albeit with some minor tweaks. Gone were the references to “lady” and “honey,” replaced by pronouns that made the song adaptable to a male singer. The instrumentation, however, received a country makeover. The prominent piano of the original was replaced by a bed of warm acoustic guitars and a subtle backing of steel guitar. This shift created a more laid-back, intimate atmosphere, perfectly in line with Twitty’s signature style.
Despite the subtle changes, Slow Hand still pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in country music at the time. The song’s theme, a man yearning for a woman’s caress, was considered somewhat suggestive for a genre known for its traditional values. However, Twitty wasn’t afraid to take risks. This wasn’t his first foray into risqué territory. Two years prior, he had caused a stir with the song “I’d Love to Lay You Down,” another example of his willingness to push the envelope.
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Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
As the midnight moon was drifting throughThe lazy sway of the treesI saw the look in your eyes looking into the nightNot seeing what you wanted to seeDarling, don’t say a word I’ve already heardWhat your body is saying to mineYou’re tired of fast movesYou got a slow groove on your mindYou want a man with a slow handYou want a lover with an easy touchYou want somebody who will spend some timeNot come and go in a heated rushBaby, believe me I understandWhen it comes to love you want a slow handMoon shadowed ground with no one aroundAnd a blanket of stars in our eyesHey, we’re drifting free like two lostiesOn the crazy wind of the nightDarling don’t say a word I’ve already heardWhat your body is saying to mineIf you want all night you know it’s alrightI’ve got timeYou’ve got a man with a slow handYou’ve got a lover with an easy touchYou’ve got somebody who will spend some timeNot come and go in a heated rushBaby, believe me I understandWhen it comes to love you want a slow hand
Harley