Born in Hope Valley, Rhode Island, with his parents Mr. & Mrs. William Gilman Jr., Gilman first received notice as a performer at age seven, attracting the attention of a local vocal coach, Angela Bacari, who later became his manager. Eventually he met with Ray Benson (of Asleep at the Wheel) who helped him record demos, including "Roly Poly". Two months later he was signed by Sony Music Nashville.
His 2000 debut album, One Voice, had a very widely-played single that crossed over well into top 40 airplay. The album reached multi-platinum status, and earned a Grammy nomination. Generally touted as a child prodigy, Gilman appeared on various talk shows. Classic Christmas (which was certified gold) was released later in the year.
He released Dare to Dream (certified gold) on Sony BMG Music Entertainment/Epic Records in 2001, and in 2003 released Music Through Heartsongs, an album inspired by the poetry of Mattie Stepanek. Later in 2003, he performed at a benefit for The Station nightclub fire. In May 2005, he released Everything and More, his first album since his voice changed.
Billy's latest album, self-titled, was released in September 2006 on the Image Entertainment label. The first single off the upcoming album, Southern Star, heralds a return to his country music roots. Billy is scheduled to begin working on his next album with Eddie Galan and Andrew Lane of Trilogy Productions.
Little Bitty Pretty One
Billy Gilman Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Little bitty pretty one
Come on and talk-a to me
A-lovey dovey dovey one
Come sit down on my knee
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Tell you a story
Happened long time ago
A-little bitty pretty one
I've been watching you grow
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
The lyrics to "Little Bitty Pretty One" by Billy Gilman are a simple but sweet invitation to a young girl to come and chat with him. The repetitive "ah-ah-ah" sounds create a playful and lighthearted atmosphere, and the upbeat tempo of the song also adds to the carefree and innocent tone. When he sings "come sit down on my knee," there is a hint of flirtation, but the innocence and sincerity of his invitation is clear.
The second verse of the song takes a turn towards nostalgia as Billy recounts a story from long ago. The "little bitty pretty one" he's been watching grow is perhaps a metaphor for innocence and youth, and the story he tells could be a representation of childhood memories. The sweetness and simplicity of the song make it clear that Billy is remembering a simpler time in his life. It's a sweet and charming song that reminds the listener of the joys of childhood and the innocent joys of young love.
Line by Line Meaning
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Repetition of a musical phrase for emphasis and setting the tone.
Little bitty pretty one
Addressing a person who is small and attractive.
Come on and talk-a to me
Invitation for conversation and communication.
A-lovey dovey dovey one
Addressing someone affectionately and lovingly.
Come sit down on my knee
Invitation for physical closeness and intimacy.
Tell you a story
Announcement of an upcoming narration.
Happened long time ago
Indication of a story that occurred in the past.
I've been watching you grow
Observation of someone's development and progress over time.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, RESERVOIR MEDIA MANAGEMENT INC
Written by: Robert Byrd
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Kevin S
Wow, I didn't think anyone could ever improve on this song, but it's got me dancing like never before. Rap is a dead end street, this is where it's at, people eventually want to party and dance.
Alyxandryia Cadwell
Been listening to this album since I was little and still listening in 2015. Music is amazing and now knowing he came out of the closet he is 10X more stronger. I love this guy
Team LemonMoiMoi
he's on the voice!! watch ! :)
Hunter Hendrick
I've loved him forever!! Don't think anyone knew he was gay but I support him no matter whom he loves! Of course, I am gay so I would date him if he wanted me!
Joseph Burnsworth
Joseph Burnsworth
ConcertKat
Same! My grandparents introduced me when I was a kid and in 2022 I'm still listening!
Wayne Dunn
He was a great child singer i got on to him when i first heard one voice he still sounds good as an adult
Jenny Webster
Such a talent, love his voice.
Gabe Hendrix
One of the FIRST COUNTRY ALBUMS i ever listened to!
merkz art
2023 and i still come back to listen to this song all these years later