“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
The crackle of the vinyl and the deep, resonant voice of Marty Robbins filled the airwaves of my childhood. My father, a country music enthusiast, introduced me to a treasure trove of classic tunes, among them, the haunting ballad “Devil Woman.” Its dark themes and captivating melody left a lasting impression on me, sparking a curiosity about the stories behind the music.
About The Composition
- Title: Devil Woman
- Composer: Marty Robbins
- Premiere Date: 1962
- Album/Opus/Collection: Devil Woman
- Genre: Country, Country-pop ballad
Background
“Devil Woman” emerged from the creative genius of Marty Robbins, a prolific American country singer-songwriter known for his storytelling ability and diverse musical style. Released in 1962, the song captivated audiences with its departure from typical country themes, exploring the darker side of love and the allure of a femme fatale. The inspiration for “Devil Woman” stemmed from Robbins’ fascination with the concept of a woman who possesses an irresistible charm that ultimately leads to a man’s downfall.
Despite its immense popularity, the song initially received mixed reviews. Some critics lauded its unique blend of country and pop elements, while others found its theme too dark and unsettling for the traditional country music scene. However, “Devil Woman” defied expectations, crossing over to the pop charts and solidifying its position as one of Robbins’ most recognized and successful compositions.
Musical Style
“Devil Woman” unfolds as a slow-tempo ballad, drawing listeners in with its haunting melody and Robbins’ rich baritone vocals. The instrumentation features a blend of acoustic and electric guitars, bass, drums, and backing vocals, creating a layered and atmospheric soundscape. The song adheres to a classic verse-chorus structure with a bridge, gradually building tension and emotional intensity. Robbins’ vocal delivery is particularly noteworthy, effectively conveying the protagonist’s conflicting emotions of love, obsession, and despair.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Devil Woman” weave a tale of a man ensnared by a woman with “eyes that burn like fire.” He acknowledges her destructive nature, referring to her as a “devil woman” who brings him nothing but misery. Yet, despite recognizing the pain she inflicts, he remains helplessly drawn to her, unable to break free from her captivating spell. The poetic and evocative lyrics offer a poignant exploration of the complexities of love, obsession, and the destructive power of a femme fatale.
Performance History
“Devil Woman” became a cornerstone of Marty Robbins’ live performances and a fan favorite. Its crossover success led to numerous covers by artists across diverse genres, cementing its place in popular music history. Even today, the song continues to be performed by country artists, keeping its legacy alive.
Cultural Impact
The song’s influence extends beyond the realm of music, making appearances in various films, television shows, and commercials. “Devil Woman” serves as a testament to the crossover appeal of country music, demonstrating its ability to resonate with a wider audience and leave a lasting mark on popular culture.
Legacy
“Devil Woman” remains a powerful reminder of Marty Robbins’ exceptional talent as a storyteller and musician. Its exploration of the complexities of love and the captivating allure of a femme fatale continues to resonate with audiences today, ensuring its enduring legacy as a classic in the country music canon.
Conclusion
“Devil Woman” is more than just a song; it’s a journey into the darker side of love, a captivating story brought to life through Marty Robbins’ evocative vocals and masterful songwriting.
Video
Lyrics
I told Mary about us
I told her about our great sin
Mary cried and forgave me
Then Mary took me back again
She said if I wanted my freedom
I could be free evermore
But I don’t want to be
And I don’t want to see Mary cry anymore
Oh, devil woman
Devil woman, let go of me
Devil woman, let me be
And leave me alone
I want to go home
Mary is waitin’ and weepin’
Down in our shack by the sea
Even after I’ve hurt her
Mary’s still in love with me
Devil woman it’s over
Trapped no more by your charms
‘Cause I don’t want to stay
I want to get away
Woman let go of my arm
Oh, devil woman
Devil woman, let go of me
Devil woman, let me be
And leave me alone
I want to go home
Devil woman, you’re evil
Like the dark coral reef
Like the winds that bring high tides
You bring sorrow and grief
You made me ashamed to face Mary
Barely had the strength to tell
Skies are not so black
Mary took me back
Mary has broken your spell
Oh, devil woman
Devil woman, let go of me
Devil woman, let me be
And leave me alone
I want to go home
Runnin’ along by the seashore
Runnin’ as fast as I can
Even the seagulls are happy
Glad I’m comin’ home again
Never again will I ever
Cause another tear to fall
Down the beach I see
What belongs to me
The one I want most of all
Oh, devil woman
Devil woman, don’t follow me
Devil woman let me be
And leave me alone
I’m goin’ back home