About the song
Background of Kentucky Woman by Neil Diamond
- Released in October 1967, “Kentucky Woman” was Neil Diamond’s last hit single for Bang Records.
- The song was a minor hit in the US, reaching number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- Interestingly, it did better in other countries, reaching the top 10 in New Zealand and the top 6 in Canada.
- It’s a pop song with some country influences, and the original recording by Diamond is in mono.
There isn’t a confirmed story behind the inspiration for the lyrics, but some accounts suggest:
- Diamond wrote it while on tour, inspired by the beauty of women he saw in a small town.
Themes in Kentucky Woman
The lyrics paint a picture of a strong, independent woman from Kentucky. The narrator is clearly smitten with her, but she seems uninterested in him. Here are some of the themes explored in the song:
- Southern charm: The song evokes a sense of place, highlighting the beauty and culture of Kentucky.
- Unrequited love: The narrator’s admiration for the woman goes unreturned.
- Female empowerment: The Kentucky woman is portrayed as self-assured and unwilling to settle.
- Beauty and desire: The song celebrates feminine beauty and the power it can hold.
Video
Lyrics
Kentucky womanShe shines with her own kind of lightShe’d look at you onceAnd a day that’s all wrong looks all rightAnd I love herGod knows, I love her
Kentucky womanIf she get to know youShe goin’ to own youKentucky woman
Well, she ain’t the kindMakes heads turn at the drop of her nameBut something insideThat she’s got turn you on just the sameAnd she loves meGod knows, she loves me
Kentucky womanIf she get to know youShe goin’ to own youKentucky woman
I don’t want muchThe good Lord’s earth beneath my feetA gentle touch from that one girlAnd life is sweet and goodAin’t no doubtI’m talkin’ about
Kentucky womanIf she get to know youShe goin’ to own youKentucky woman
I don’t want muchThe good Lord’s earth beneath my feetA gentle touch from that one girlAnd life is sweet and goodAin’t no doubtI’m talkin’ about
Kentucky womanIf she get to know youShe goin’ to own youKentucky womanKentucky womanKentucky woman