The Story of Elvira by The Oak Ridge Boys
There are many songs that have become iconic over the years, with intricate melodies and lyrics that seem to find their way into our hearts. One such song is “Elvira”, which was recorded by The Oak Ridge Boys in the early 1980s. This song is famous for its catchy chorus, its sing-along quality, and its unusual lyrics. In this article, we’ll explore the story behind the song and what makes it so unique.
Table of Contents
The Origin of the Song
“Elvira” was written by Dallas Frazier, who was one of the most prolific songwriters of the 1960s and 70s, having written songs for artists like George Jones, Merle Haggard, and Elvis Presley. Frazier wrote “Elvira” in 1966, but it was not until 1981 that it became a hit when The Oak Ridge Boys recorded it.
The Oak Ridge Boys had been in the music business for many years, starting in the 1940s as a gospel group. They had evolved to become a successful country band in the 1970s, with hits like “Y’all Come Back Saloon” and “I’ll Be True to You”. By the early 1980s, the band was looking for a new hit song to bring them back to the top of the charts.
According to The Oak Ridge Boys’ lead singer, Duane Allen, the band was introduced to “Elvira” by Frazier himself. The band was immediately taken with the song and decided to record it. They made a few changes to the original lyrics and arrangement, and the result was a catchy and upbeat song that would become one of the band’s most famous hits.
The Meaning Behind the Lyrics
At first glance, the lyrics of “Elvira” may seem nonsensical. The chorus, which repeats throughout the song, goes like this:
“Elvira, Elvira
My heart’s on fire, Elvira
Giddy up, oom poppa omm poppa mow mow
Giddy up, oom poppa omm poppa mow mow
Heigh-ho Silver, away”
The verses of the song tell a story about a man who is infatuated with a woman named Elvira. He sings about how he wants to be with her and how he feels when he sees her. The nonsensical chorus seems to represent the joy and excitement that he feels when he’s around her.
According to Frazier, the inspiration for the song came from a real-life encounter he had with a woman named Elvira. He saw her walking down the street one day and was struck by her beauty. The chorus of the song is supposed to represent the sound of a train that Frazier heard in the distance while he was watching Elvira.
The Legacy of “Elvira”
Since its release in 1981, “Elvira” has become one of the most recognizable songs in country music. Its catchy chorus and unusual lyrics have made it a favorite of fans and performers alike. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Johnny Cash, The Bellamy Brothers, and even the heavy metal band Slayer.
The Oak Ridge Boys continue to perform “Elvira” in their concerts, and it is always a crowd favorite. The band has said that they never expected the song to become as popular as it has, but they are grateful for its success.
In 2010, The Oak Ridge Boys released a new version of “Elvira” with a guest appearance by comedian Jeff Foxworthy. The song was a hit once again, proving that its popularity has not faded over the years.
Conclusion
“Elvira” is a song that has captured the hearts of millions of people over the years. Its catchy chorus and unusual lyrics have made it a beloved classic of country music. The story behind the song is a testament to the power of music to inspire and entertain us.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of The Oak Ridge Boys or just appreciate good music, “Elvira” is a song that is sure to put a smile on your face and get your toes tapping. Its legacy has stood the test of time, and it will continue to be a beloved classic for many years to come.
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