A soulful tribute to a legendary musician, capturing the essence of his deep Southern roots and enduring legacy

“Black Velvet” is a song by Canadian singer Alannah Myles, released in 1989 as part of her self-titled debut album. The track became a significant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1990 and earning Myles a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance in 1991.

The song is a tribute to Elvis Presley, with lyrics referencing his influence and legacy. Co-writer Christopher Ward drew inspiration from a trip to Graceland during the 10th anniversary of Presley’s death, capturing the essence of the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll” in the song’s soulful melody and evocative lyrics.

Musically, “Black Velvet” blends elements of blues, rock, and country, featuring a memorable guitar riff and Myles’ powerful vocals. The title refers to the black velvet paintings of Elvis that were popular among his fans, symbolizing the deep admiration and allure associated with his persona.

The song’s success was not limited to North America; it also topped charts in Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland, and reached number two on the UK Singles Chart. Its widespread acclaim solidified Myles’ place in the music industry and showcased her versatility as an artist.

Over the years, “Black Velvet” has been covered by various artists, including country singer Robin Lee, whose version reached number 12 on the US Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1990. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the lasting impact of its tribute to Elvis Presley.

In addition to its commercial success, “Black Velvet” received critical acclaim, with Music & Media describing it as “a blues ballad featuring some straight-from-the-heart vocals from Myles and inspired guitar playing.”

The accompanying music video, directed by Doug Freel, was partially shot on Myles’ family ranch in Buckhorn, Ontario, adding a personal touch to the visual representation of the song. The video’s imagery complements the song’s nostalgic and soulful themes.

“Black Velvet” continues to receive substantial airplay and has been recognized with a “Millionaire Award” from ASCAP in 2005 for more than four million radio plays. Its enduring popularity underscores its significance in the landscape of classic rock and blues music.

Alannah Myles’ performance of “Black Velvet” remains a highlight of her career, showcasing her distinctive voice and emotive delivery. The song’s success opened doors for her in the music industry, leading to further opportunities and collaborations.