Conway Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins, was a towering figure in country music, known for his smooth baritone voice and ability to infuse raw emotion into his songs. He started his career in rock and roll, even landing a hit with “It’s Only Make Believe,” but later transitioned to country, where he found lasting success. Throughout his career, Twitty racked up a remarkable 55 number-one singles on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, a feat surpassed by very few. He also won numerous awards, including multiple Country Music Association (CMA) awards for Male Vocalist of the Year and Vocal Duo of the Year (with Loretta Lynn).
In 1982, Twitty released “Slow Hand,” a song originally recorded by The Pointer Sisters. While their version was a pop hit, Twitty transformed it into a slow-burning, sensual country ballad. The song tells the story of a woman drawn to a man’s gentle and deliberate touch, a “slow hand” that knows how to ignite her passion. Unlike some of Twitty’s more overt ballads, “Slow Hand” relied on subtle innuendo and suggestive lyrics, creating an atmosphere of simmering desire rather than explicit lust.
The song quickly resonated with Twitty’s fans and country music listeners in general. It climbed the charts, reaching number one and solidifying Twitty’s reputation as a master of romantic country. Audience feedback was overwhelmingly positive, praising the song’s smooth melody, Twitty’s soulful vocals, and the suggestive yet tasteful lyrics. Many listeners appreciated the song’s ability to evoke feelings of intimacy and desire without resorting to overly explicit language. “Slow Hand” became a staple on country radio and a favorite for slow dancing, further cementing its place in country music history as a sophisticated and sensual classic.