The Meaning Behind The Song: Evil Woman by Electric Light Orchestra
Introduction
As a fan of Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), one song that has always stood out to me is “Evil Woman.” It’s a track from their album “Face the Music,” released in 1975. The lyrics and the overall vibe of this song have captivated audiences for decades. In this article, I will delve into the meaning behind the song and its unique sound.
Table of Contents
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “Evil Woman” tell a story of a relationship gone wrong. In the first verse, the singer addresses a woman who has made a fool out of him and used him. He refers to her having the blues because she doesn’t have anyone else to use. The lines “There’s an open road that leads nowhere, so just make some miles between here and there” suggest that the singer wants her to leave and create distance between them.
The chorus, with its repetition of the phrase “evil woman,” amplifies the negative emotions associated with this problematic relationship. It serves as a powerful hook that sticks with the listeners.
In the second verse, the singer mentions how he arrived in town, experienced success, but failed to settle down. The lines “You found a fool lyin’ in a daze, ha, ha, woman, what you gonna do?” imply that the woman has taken advantage of him. However, the lyrics also suggest that the singer recognizes his own foolishness.
The bridge of the song features a piano solo that adds to the overall allure of “Evil Woman.” It showcases the talent and musicality of ELO.
In the final verse, the singer accuses the woman of breaking him and now trying to portray herself differently. He mentions how she used to come running to him every time she cried, but now she has no one left to turn to. The lines “That you ain’t got no place left to go” suggest that the singer has moved on and the woman is left with the consequences of her actions.
The Creation of “Evil Woman”
According to an interview with Jeff Lynne, the main songwriter and leader of ELO, “Evil Woman” was a quick composition. After finishing the entire album, Lynne felt there was no standout single. Taking inspiration from the Beatles’ song “Fixing A Hole,” he came up with the first three chords of “Evil Woman” instantly. Lynne mentioned in the interview that he sent the rest of the band out to play football and wrote the song on the spot.
Lynne aimed to create a slick and cool sound for “Evil Woman,” showcasing influences of R&B. With the inclusion of piano solos and a string arrangement, the song exudes a sense of sophistication. Although Lynne has never revealed the woman who inspired the song, he mentions that she has appeared in a few of his other compositions as well.
Legacy and Discography
Upon its release in 1975, “Evil Woman” quickly gained popularity and climbed international charts. It became one of ELO’s most iconic and recognizable songs. In 2012, Lynne re-recorded “Evil Woman” for the compilation album “Mr. Blue Sky: The Very Best of Electric Light Orchestra,” giving it a fresh perspective for newer audiences.
ELO’s album “Face the Music” received critical acclaim and solidified their position as pioneers of symphonic rock. With hits like “Evil Woman,” ELO showcased their ability to fuse rock, pop, and classical elements to create a unique and timeless sound.
Credits
To give credit where it’s due, “Evil Woman” was produced and written by Jeff Lynne. The song featured backing vocals by Ellie Greenwich, Marge Raymond, Susan Collins, and Nancy O’Neill. Richard Tandy contributed on piano and clavinet, while Kelly Groucutt played bass, and Bev Bevan played drums. The lead vocals were performed by Jeff Lynne.
The song was recorded at Musicland Studios in Munich, Germany, and De Lane Lea Studios in London, UK, between May and June 1975. It was released on September 1, 1975.
Conclusion
“Evil Woman” by Electric Light Orchestra remains a classic song that explores the pitfalls of relationships and the consequences of manipulating others. Its catchy chorus, intricate musical arrangement, and unforgettable lyrics have solidified its place in music history. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering ELO, “Evil Woman” is sure to leave a lasting impression.
