Conway Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins in 1933, was a towering figure in American country music. He possessed a smooth, baritone voice and a knack for delivering emotionally charged performances, bridging the gap between traditional country and pop. His career spanned decades, yielding a staggering 55 number one singles, solidifying his place as a country music legend. He received numerous accolades including Grammy Awards, Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, and Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards. Although mainly known for his country work, Twitty initially sought success in rock and roll before pivoting to country in the mid-1960s.
One of his most memorable and somewhat controversial hits was “Slow Hand,” released in 1982. Though written by John Bettis and Michael Clark, and originally recorded by The Pointer Sisters, Twitty’s rendition transformed the song into a country-tinged, sexually suggestive ballad. The lyrics, rife with double entendre, describe a woman’s anticipation and desire for a lover with a gentle, deliberate touch. The “slow hand” in the title symbolizes a lover who takes his time, savouring the intimacy and connection with his partner.
“Slow Hand” became a significant commercial success for Twitty, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. The song’s success, however, was met with mixed reactions. While some listeners embraced the song’s playful and suggestive lyrics, others found it too explicit for the traditionally conservative country music audience. Despite the controversy, “Slow Hand” remains a popular and well-remembered song from Twitty’s extensive catalog, showcasing his ability to push boundaries and connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level. It solidified his reputation as a vocalist capable of injecting sensuality and raw feeling into his performances.
