Uncover the Meaning Behind the Iconic Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress Lyrics

The lyrics to Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress by The Hollies describe a mysterious woman who catches the eye of the singer.

Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress is a classic rock song that has stood the test of time. Its catchy tune and memorable lyrics have made it a favorite among music lovers for decades. The song was released in 1972 by the British rock band The Hollies, and it quickly climbed the charts, reaching the top 10 in both the US and UK. But what makes this song so special? Let's take a closer look at the lyrics and explore its meaning.

The first thing that catches your attention about Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress is its title. It's an intriguing phrase that conjures up images of mystery, allure, and danger. Who is this woman in the black dress? What makes her so cool? The lyrics provide some clues:

“Saturday night I was downtown
Working for the FBI
Sitting in a nest of bad men
Whiskey bottles piling high”

The song's narrator is a law enforcement officer who is on the lookout for criminals. He describes himself as sitting in a nest of bad men, which suggests that he's infiltrated a criminal organization. But then he sees her:

“A long cool woman in a black dress
Just-a 5'9, beautiful, tall
With just one look I was a bad mess
'Cause that long cool woman had it all”

The woman in the black dress captures his attention immediately. She's tall and beautiful, and he can't help but be drawn to her. But what is it about her that makes her so alluring?

“I saw her heading to the table
Well a tall walking big black cat
When Charlie said I hope that you're able boy
Well I'm telling you she knows where it's at”

The woman in the black dress is confident and in control. She walks like a big black cat, which suggests grace and power. When Charlie, one of the bad guys, comments on her, she responds with a knowing smirk. She knows exactly how to handle herself in this environment.

As the song continues, the narrator can't help but be drawn to her. He's captivated by her beauty and her confidence:

“Well I took her home to my place
Watching every move on her face
She said, 'Look, what's your game, baby?
Are you tryin' to put me in shame?'”

The woman in the black dress is no fool. She knows that the narrator is a law enforcement officer, and she's not afraid to call him out on it. But even as she challenges him, he can't help but be smitten:

“Well I'm a let you know one thing
You know I seen some ladies fair
But I'll be doggone this little girl's
Outta sight, she's a real gone affair”

The narrator is completely taken with her. He's seen plenty of beautiful women before, but this woman in the black dress is something else entirely. She's outta sight, which means that she's beyond compare.

In conclusion, Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress is a song about a woman who exudes confidence, power, and allure. She's a mystery that the narrator can't help but be drawn to. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world full of danger and intrigue, and the woman in the black dress is the only one who seems to have everything under control. It's no wonder that this song has become a classic over the years. Its catchy tune and memorable lyrics have a timeless quality that will continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.

The Catchy Lyrics of “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress”

“Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” is one of the most iconic songs of the 1970s, thanks to its catchy melody and memorable lyrics. The song was written by Allan Clarke, Roger Cook, and Roger Greenaway, and was performed by the British rock band, The Hollies. The song tells the story of a mysterious woman who catches the eye of the narrator, and the lyrics are full of vivid imagery and clever wordplay. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the lyrics of “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” and explore what makes them so memorable.

The Opening Verse

The opening verse of “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” sets the tone for the rest of the song. The narrator describes the woman he sees across the room, and his admiration is clear from the very beginning: “Saturday night I was downtown / Working for the FBI / Sitting in a nest of bad men / Whiskey bottles piling high.” The contrast between the narrator’s job as an FBI agent and the seedy surroundings he finds himself in adds to the intrigue of the song, and the image of the whiskey bottles piling up gives a sense of danger and excitement.

The Chorus

One of the most memorable parts of “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” is the chorus. The repeated refrain of “long cool woman in a black dress / Just a 5-9 beautiful tall” is instantly recognizable, and the simple melody makes it easy to sing along. The lyrics of the chorus paint a picture of a woman who stands out from the crowd, both in terms of her appearance and her attitude. The fact that she’s “just a 5-9 beautiful tall” suggests that she’s not trying too hard to be noticed – she’s confident in her own skin.

The Second Verse

In the second verse of “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress,” the narrator continues to describe the woman he’s watching: “Well, she walked up to me and she asked me if I wanted to dance / She looked kind of nice and so I said I might take a chance.” The fact that the woman initiates the interaction is another sign of her confidence, and the narrator’s willingness to take a chance suggests that he’s intrigued by her. The rest of the verse describes the way the woman moves on the dance floor, with the narrator noting that “she was moving round and round / Well, a whispering her spell.”

The Bridge

After the second verse, “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” moves into a bridge section that provides a bit of contrast to the rest of the song. The lyrics of the bridge are less focused on the woman and more on the narrator himself: “I saw her heading to the table / Well, a tall walking big black cat / When Charlie said, ‘I hope that you’re able, boy / Well, I’m telling you, she knows where it’s at.’” This section of the song gives the listener a bit of a breather before diving back into the main story.

The Third Verse

In the third verse of “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress,” the narrator continues to watch the woman from across the room: “Well, suddenly we heard the sirens / And everybody started to run / Jumping out of doors and tables / Well, I heard somebody shooting a gun.” The sudden appearance of the police adds a sense of urgency to the scene, and the fact that the woman disappears into the chaos only adds to her mystery.

The Final Chorus

The final chorus of “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” brings the song to a satisfying conclusion: “Long cool woman in a black dress / Just a 5-9 beautiful tall / With just one look I was a bad mess / ‘Cause that long cool woman had it all.” The repetition of the chorus reinforces the idea that the woman is unforgettable, and the narrator’s admission that he’s a “bad mess” suggests that she’s had a powerful effect on him.

The Legacy of “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress”

Although “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” was released over 40 years ago, its catchy melody and memorable lyrics continue to resonate with music fans today. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Bruce Springsteen and Tom Jones, and it has been featured in movies and TV shows like American Hustle and The Sopranos. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of classic rock or just appreciate a good song when you hear one, “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” is a timeless classic that deserves a place in your music library.

The Significance of the Title

The title of “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” is significant because it immediately conjures up an image in the listener’s mind. The phrase “long cool woman” suggests someone who is confident and self-assured, while the “black dress” symbolizes sophistication and elegance. Together, the two elements create a picture of a woman who is both cool and mysterious – someone who is not easily forgotten.

The Influence of Rockabilly

One of the reasons why “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” has such a timeless quality is that it draws on the rockabilly style of the 1950s. The driving beat and catchy melody are reminiscent of classic rockabilly songs like “Blue Suede Shoes” and “Hound Dog,” and the lyrics contain many of the clever wordplay and vivid imagery that are characteristic of the genre. By combining elements of rockabilly with more contemporary sounds, The Hollies created a song that was both nostalgic and forward-looking.

The Song’s Political Context

Although “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” is primarily known for its catchy melody and memorable lyrics, the song also has a political context that is less well-known. At the time the song was released, the FBI was conducting an investigation into the Nixon administration’s involvement in the Watergate scandal, and many Americans were disillusioned with the government. The image of an FBI agent sitting in a nest of bad men and whiskey bottles piling up suggests a sense of corruption and lawlessness that was prevalent during this period.

The Enduring Appeal of “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress”

Ultimately, the enduring appeal of “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” comes down to the fact that it is simply a great song. From the driving beat to the clever wordplay, every element of the song works together to create a memorable and enjoyable listening experience. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock or just appreciate good music, “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” is a song that deserves a place in your music collection.

Introduction: Setting the Scene of the Lyrics

The Hollies' hit song Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress is an ode to a mysterious woman who captivates the singer with her striking appearance and dangerous allure. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of the woman, emphasizing her sleek black dress, long brown hair, and alluring figure. As the song progresses, it becomes clear that there may be more to this woman than meets the eye, adding an element of suspense to the story. The song's instrumentation, with its bluesy guitar riffs and driving rhythm section, only adds to its appeal. In this article, we'll examine the lyrics of Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress, exploring the story they tell and the impact they've had on popular culture.

The First Verse: Describing the Woman's Appearance

The opening verse of Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress sets the scene by describing the woman's appearance in detail. The singer notes that she's got a fine sense of humor when I'm feeling low down, suggesting that she may be able to lift his spirits. He goes on to describe her physical attributes, noting that she's got a black dress that's cut down to there, a pair of high-heeled shoes that are real binders. The image of a woman dressed in black and wearing high heels is a classic symbol of femininity and seduction, adding to the song's appeal. The verse ends with a description of the woman's hair, which is brown and wavy and falls all around her shoulders.

The Chorus: Expressing the Singer's Captivation

The chorus of Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress repeats the refrain she's a long cool woman in a black dress several times, emphasizing the singer's overwhelming attraction to the woman. The repetition of this line drives home the point that the woman is a captivating figure who has caught the singer's eye. The chorus also features a catchy melody and a driving rhythm section, making it one of the most memorable parts of the song.

The Second Verse: Introducing a Criminal Element

In the second verse, the singer notes that the woman is built like a bomb, oh yeah, and she ticks like a time bomb. This suggests that there may be more to her than meets the eye and adds an element of danger to the song. The use of the metaphor time bomb implies that the woman may be unpredictable or have a hidden agenda. This verse hints at the idea that the woman may be involved in illegal activities or that she is on the run from the law, adding to the sense of suspense surrounding her character.

The Third Verse: Building Suspense

The third verse of Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress further adds to the sense of danger surrounding the woman. The singer notes that everybody stares as she goes by, suggesting that she's a figure of interest or scrutiny. He goes on to say that she's got the cops on her tail and they won't quit, implying that she's running from the law. This verse builds suspense and adds to the feeling that something big is about to happen.

The Bridge: Adding a Sense of Urgency

The bridge of the song shifts the focus to the singer's need to act on his feelings before it's too late. He sings, I gotta get to know her right now, she's gonna make me late, and that's a fact. This sense of urgency adds to the tension of the song and emphasizes the singer's desire to get closer to the woman. The bridge also features a memorable guitar solo, adding to the song's bluesy feel.

The Fourth Verse: Confirming the Woman's Criminal Past

In the final verse of Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress, the singer confirms that the woman has a criminal past. He reveals that she's done time for armed robbery and that she's not to be trifled with. This revelation adds a new dimension to the woman's character and adds to the sense of danger surrounding her. The verse ends on a note of warning, with the singer noting that if you're looking for a cool cat, she ain't the one.

The Outro: Reflecting on the Woman's Impact

The outro of the song returns to the chorus, repeating the refrain she's a long cool woman in a black dress several times before ending on a note of contemplation. The singer seems to be reflecting on the impact that the woman has had on him, suggesting that she's left a lasting impression. The repetition of the chorus underscores the woman's alluring qualities and emphasizes the idea that she's a figure who will stay with the singer long after the song has ended.

Musical Accompaniment: Examining the Song's Instrumentation

In addition to its evocative lyrics, Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress is notable for its bluesy guitar riffs and driving rhythm section. The song's instrumentation draws heavily from classic rock and roll, with its catchy guitar hooks and infectious beat. The use of the guitar solo in the bridge adds to the song's bluesy feel and creates a sense of tension and urgency. Overall, the song's musical accompaniment complements its lyrics perfectly, creating a memorable and timeless classic rock hit.

Legacy and Meaning: Considering the Song's Impact

Since its release in the early 1970s, Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress has become a beloved classic rock hit and a testament to the enduring appeal of stories about dangerous, alluring women. The song's lyrics have inspired countless interpretations and analyses, with many fans speculating about the woman's true identity and motivations. Some have suggested that the song is a commentary on the societal expectations placed on women, while others have seen it as a celebration of female empowerment. Whatever the interpretation, Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences today.

The Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress Lyrics: A Professional Perspective

Introduction

The Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress is a classic rock song by The Hollies, released in 1972. It tells the story of a mysterious, attractive woman who catches the attention of the singer. In this article, we will take a closer look at the lyrics of this iconic song and explore its pros and cons.

Pros of The Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress Lyrics

The lyrics are catchy and memorable. The opening line Saturday night I was downtown working for the FBI immediately draws the listener in and sets the tone for the rest of the song.
The story told in the lyrics is engaging and intriguing. The listener is left wondering about the true identity of the long cool woman in a black dress.
The song has a timeless quality to it. Despite being over 40 years old, it still resonates with listeners today.
The lyrics are well-written and convey a sense of mystery and intrigue.

Cons of The Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress Lyrics

The lyrics may be seen as objectifying women. The long cool woman in a black dress is portrayed as a sexual object rather than a fully-realized character.
The song reinforces gender stereotypes. The man in the song is the active pursuer while the woman is the passive object of his desire.
The lyrics are somewhat repetitive, with the same chorus repeated several times throughout the song.

Table Information about The Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress

Keywords	Description
The Hollies	The band that recorded and released the song in 1972.
Classic rock	A genre of rock music that emerged in the 1960s and 70s, characterized by its use of electric guitars, drums, and bass.
Mystery	A sense of intrigue or uncertainty that is conveyed through the lyrics of the song.
Gender stereotypes	Widely-held beliefs about the characteristics and roles of men and women in society.
Objectification	The act of treating someone as a mere object rather than a fully-realized human being.

Conclusion

The Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress is a classic rock song that has stood the test of time. While its lyrics may be seen as problematic by some, they also have a certain charm and appeal. Ultimately, whether you love or hate the song, there is no denying its place in the pantheon of rock and roll history.

Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress Lyrics: A Classic Rock Anthem

Welcome to our blog about the iconic song, Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress by The Hollies. This classic rock anthem has been beloved by music fans for decades, and its timeless lyrics and catchy melody have cemented it as one of the most recognizable songs in rock history. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the meaning behind the lyrics and why this song remains so popular today.

The opening lines of the song are instantly recognizable: Saturday night I was downtown / Working for the FBI. These lyrics set the scene for the rest of the song, which tells the story of a man who falls for a mysterious woman he sees across a crowded room. He's immediately drawn to her, despite knowing nothing about her except that she's wearing a black dress.

The chorus of the song is perhaps the most memorable part: Long cool woman in a black dress / With just five o'clock shadow falling everywhere. These lyrics paint a vivid picture of the woman the narrator is describing, and they also give us a glimpse into the narrator's state of mind. He's clearly smitten with this woman, and he can't help but be captivated by her presence.

As the song progresses, we learn more about the woman in question. We find out that she's a singer in a band, and that she's caught the eye of many other men as well. Despite this, the narrator can't help but feel like there's something special about her.

The lyrics of Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress are simple yet effective. They tell a story that's easy to follow and relatable to anyone who's ever been struck by love at first sight. The melody of the song is equally catchy, with a driving beat and memorable guitar riffs that make it impossible not to tap your foot along.

One of the reasons why Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress has endured for so long is its timeless quality. Despite being released in 1972, the song still sounds fresh and relevant today. Its themes of love and desire are universal, and its catchy melody and memorable lyrics have made it a favorite of generations of music fans.

Another reason why this song remains so popular is its association with classic rock. The Hollies were one of the most successful bands of the 1960s and 70s, and their music has become synonymous with the era. Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress is a perfect example of the kind of upbeat, guitar-driven rock that was so popular at the time.

In conclusion, Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress is a classic rock anthem that has stood the test of time. Its simple yet effective lyrics and catchy melody have made it a favorite of music fans for decades, and its association with classic rock has cemented its place in music history. If you haven't listened to this song in a while, we encourage you to give it another listen and appreciate its enduring appeal.

Thank you for reading our blog about Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress by The Hollies. We hope you enjoyed learning more about this iconic song and why it remains so beloved today. Please feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts and memories of this classic rock anthem.