About the song
Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) crafted a distinctive blend of rock, pop, and orchestral elements that defined their sound, and one of their standout tracks is “Evil Woman.” Written by Jeff Lynne, the creative force behind many of ELO’s compositions, “Evil Woman” was released on their 1975 album titled “Face the Music.”
“Evil Woman” is characterized by its catchy melody, vibrant instrumentation, and memorable lyrics that delve into themes of heartbreak and betrayal. Jeff Lynne’s songwriting prowess is evident in the song’s structure, which seamlessly integrates rock guitar riffs with orchestral strings and synthesizers, creating a rich and dynamic sonic tapestry.
Upon its release, “Evil Woman” achieved significant commercial success, peaking at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. In the United Kingdom, the song fared even better, reaching the top 10 on the UK Singles Chart. Its popularity solidified ELO’s reputation as innovators in the music industry, blending genres and pushing musical boundaries.
The song opens with a distinctive guitar riff followed by a driving beat, setting the stage for Lynne’s soulful vocals and the band’s harmonies. The orchestral arrangement, featuring sweeping strings and horns, adds depth and grandeur to the composition, distinguishing ELO from their contemporaries.
“Evil Woman” remains a staple on classic rock radio stations and continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Its infectious energy and timeless appeal have cemented its status as one of ELO’s most iconic songs. The song’s success catapulted ELO to international fame and contributed to their enduring legacy in the rock and pop music genres.
For fans of classic rock and music enthusiasts alike, “Evil Woman” exemplifies ELO’s ability to blend rock sensibilities with orchestral arrangements, creating music that transcends genres and captivates audiences. Jeff Lynne’s vision and musical innovation shine through in “Evil Woman,” making it a quintessential part of ELO’s illustrious career and a beloved classic in the world of music.
Video
Lyrics
You made a fool of me
But them broken dreams have got to end
Hey, woman, you got the blues
‘Cause you ain’t got no one else to use
There’s an open road that leads nowhere
So just make some miles between here and there
There’s a hole in my head where the rain comes in
You took my body and played to win
Ha, ha, woman, it’s a cryin’ shame
But you ain’t got nobody else to blame
Evil woman
Evil woman
Evil woman
Evil woman
Rolled in from another town
Hit some gold, too hard to settle down
But a fool and his money soon go separate ways
And you found a fool lyin’ in a daze
Ha, ha, woman, what you gonna do?
You destroyed all the virtues that the Lord gave you
It’s so good that you’re feelin’ pain
But you better get your face on board the very next train (train)
Evil woman
Evil woman
Evil woman (you’re an evil woman)
Evil woman
Evil woman
Evil woman
Evil woman (you’re an evil woman)
Evil woman
Evil woman, how you done me wrong
But now you’re tryin’ to wail a different song
Ha, ha, funny, how you broke me up
You made the wine, now you drink a cup
I came runnin’ every time you cried
Thought I saw love smilin’ in your eyes
Ha, ha, very nice to know
That you ain’t got no place left to go
Evil woman
Evil woman
Evil woman (you’re an evil woman)
Evil woman
Evil woman
Evil woman (you’re an evil woman)
Evil woman (such an evil woman)
Evil woman (you’re an evil woman)
Evil woman (such an evil woman)