Black Velvet
Jan Wayne & Gorgeous X Lyrics

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Mississippi in the middle of a dry spell Jimmy Rogers on the victrola up high Mama's dancing with baby on her shoulder The Sun is setting like molasses in the sky The boy could sing, knew how to move, everything Always wanting more, he'd leave you longing for CHORUS Black velvet and that little boy smile Black velvet with that slow southern style A new religion that'll bring you to your knees Black velvet if you please Up in Memphis the music's like a heat wave White lightning, bound to drive you wild Mama's baby's in the heart of every school girl 'Love me tender' leaves 'em cryin' in the aisle The way he moved, it was a sin, so sweet and true Always wanting more, he'd leave you longing for CHORUS Every word of every song that he sang was for you In a flash he was gone, it happened so soon What could you do? CHORUS

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Jan Wayne & Gorgeous X's song "Black Velvet" paint a vivid picture of a specific time and place - Mississippi in the middle of a dry spell. The setting is further defined with the mention of Jimmy Rogers on the victrola, Mama dancing with baby on her shoulder, and the sun setting like molasses in the sky. This scene sets the stage for the introduction of the singer, a young boy who possesses an incredible singing talent and knows how to capture attention with his moves. He has a magnetism that leaves people yearning for more.

The chorus emphasizes the allure and charm of this boy, comparing him to black velvet, which signifies something rich, elegant, and alluring. The reference to the "slow southern style" adds to the mystique and sense of longing associated with him. It suggests that his presence and performance have a profound effect on people, even to the point of becoming a religious experience that brings them to their knees.

The lyrics then shift the focus to Memphis, where the music is described as a heat wave, with the mention of "white lightning" symbolizing its intense and captivating nature. The impact of the boy's talent and charisma is felt everywhere, particularly among schoolgirls who have fallen for him. The reference to "Love me tender" leaves them crying in the aisle, emphasizing the emotional connection he establishes with his audience.

The way he moves is described as sinful, sweet, and true - a combination that leaves people craving more of his performance. The chorus is repeated, emphasizing the intoxicating effect he has on listeners.

The final verse reveals the impact he has on individuals, as every word of every song seems to be dedicated specifically to them. However, his sudden disappearance leaves them wondering what they could have done differently. The chorus is repeated once again, leaving the listener to contemplate the power and allure of this enigmatic figure.

Line by Line Meaning

Mississippi in the middle of a dry spell
In a setting of drought and scarcity, symbolizing a lack of inspiration or creativity

Jimmy Rogers on the victrola up high
The presence of influential music playing loudly, emphasizing the power and impact of music

Mama's dancing with baby on her shoulder
A mother joyously embracing her child, creating a sense of happiness and comfort

The Sun is setting like molasses in the sky
The visuals of a slow, mesmerizing sunset, representing a tranquil and captivating atmosphere

The boy could sing, knew how to move, everything
The boy possessed exceptional vocal skills and captivating dance moves, exhibiting talent in all aspects

Always wanting more, he'd leave you longing for
His pursuit of greatness and constant desire for improvement instilled a longing for his charismatic presence

Black velvet and that little boy smile
The combination of his black velvet attire and charming smile, symbolizing an irresistible allure

Black velvet with that slow southern style
The smoothness and elegance of his performance, exuding the distinct flair of the southern region

A new religion that'll bring you to your knees
His talent and presence have such an impact that it instills a sense of devotion and overwhelming admiration

Black velvet if you please
Referring to the desired state of being captivated and enraptured by his music and persona

Up in Memphis the music's like a heat wave
In Memphis, the music is so intense and exhilarating, it creates a sensation similar to a scorching heat wave

White lightning, bound to drive you wild
Metaphorically comparing the electrifying effect of the music to a powerful force that stirs intense emotions

Mama's baby's in the heart of every school girl
His charm and appeal resonated deeply with young girls, captivating their hearts and emotions

'Love me tender' leaves 'em cryin' in the aisle
The emotional impact of his rendition of 'Love me tender' is so profound that it moves people to tears

The way he moved, it was a sin, so sweet and true
His mesmerizing dance moves were so enchanting, they were simultaneously sinful, yet irresistibly genuine

Every word of every song that he sang was for you
His performances conveyed a sense of personal connection, as if every lyric was dedicated to the listener

In a flash he was gone, it happened so soon
His presence in the music industry was fleeting, as his career and life ended abruptly and unexpectedly

What could you do?
Expressing a feeling of powerlessness and longing for more time with him, as there was nothing that could be done

Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS

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