Conway Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins in 1933, was a towering figure in country music, known for his smooth baritone voice and sensual delivery. While initially drawn to rock and roll, he transitioned to country in the 1960s and quickly cemented his place with a string of hits, becoming a crossover icon. Twitty garnered numerous awards throughout his career, including multiple Country Music Association (CMA) and Academy of Country Music (ACM) awards, and boasted a remarkable number of number-one singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. His distinctive blend of romance and storytelling captivated audiences for decades.
In 1982, Twitty released “Slow Hand,” a song that, despite not fitting his traditional country style, became a significant hit and a staple of his later career. Originally written and performed by the Pointer Sisters, Twitty’s rendition reimagined the song with his signature country croon, injecting it with a deeper, more intimate feel. “Slow Hand” is a suggestive ballad that uses the metaphor of a skilled and patient lover. The lyrics depict a woman yearning for a man who takes his time, savoring each moment of intimacy rather than rushing through the experience. It speaks to a desire for connection and sensuality, emphasizing the importance of quality over speed in a romantic encounter.
The song was a commercial success for Twitty, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. While some traditional country fans were initially surprised by Twitty tackling a song with such overt sensuality, the majority of the audience embraced his rendition. Feedback centered on his masterful delivery and the way he imbued the song with a genuine emotion that resonated with listeners. Many praised his ability to make the song his own while retaining the original’s suggestive charm. “Slow Hand” remains a testament to Twitty’s versatility and his lasting appeal across musical boundaries.