Conway Twitty, born Harold Lloyd Jenkins in 1933, was a pivotal figure in both rock and country music. Early in his career, he charted with rockabilly hits like “It’s Only Make Believe,” before transitioning to country in the late 1960s. This switch proved incredibly successful, earning him the title of “Countrypolitan” singer due to his smooth, romantic style. Twitty amassed a staggering 55 number-one country singles, earning him multiple CMA Awards, ACM Awards, and even a Grammy for his duet “After All the Good Is Gone” with Loretta Lynn. His signature smooth vocals and intensely romantic themes cemented his place as a legend.
In 1982, Conway Twitty released “Slow Hand,” a country rendition of The Pointer Sisters’ R&B hit. While the original celebrated a more overtly sexual and assertive desire, Twitty’s version offered a softer, more tender perspective on romance. The song speaks of a woman captivated by a man’s gentle and deliberate touch, emphasizing the pleasure and intimacy found in taking one’s time. The lyrics express a longing for a patient and sensual connection, a desire to savor each moment of physical affection.
“Slow Hand” became another massive success for Twitty, climbing to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and further solidifying his reputation as a master of romantic ballads. While some critics initially questioned a male artist covering a song originally sung by a female group, the song resonated powerfully with his audience. Fans praised Twitty’s smooth delivery and the way he managed to imbue the song with a gentle vulnerability. The song’s success highlighted the appeal of romantic themes in country music and proved Twitty’s enduring ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. Ultimately, “Slow Hand” is remembered as one of Conway Twitty’s signature songs, demonstrating his skill in transforming a pop hit into a country classic.