"Slowly" by Webb Pierce, a trailblazing classic that not only soared to the top of charts in 1954 but also marked a groundbreaking moment as the first pedal steel-infused song to reign for an unprecedented 31 weeks.
Penned by Pierce himself alongside Nashville luminary Tommy Hill, "Slowly" isn't just a ballad; it's a country music gem that exposed the wonders of the pedal steel guitar to a large audience. With its heartfelt lyrics and innovative musical arrangement, the song captured the essence of love unfolding while introducing audiences to the mesmerizing allure of the wonky and love-stricken pedal steel guitar sound.
At its helm, Bud Isaacs' iconic pedal steel intro didn't just set hearts aflutter; it ignited a fervor among musicians clamoring to replicate its ethereal sound. From dimly lit honky-tonk stages to makeshift studio setups, aspiring artists sought to emulate Isaacs' steel guitar magic, forever reshaping the landscape of country music.
Since its debut, "Slowly" has inspired countless reinterpretations, from Connie Smith's soul-stirring rendition to Kippi Brannon's chart-topping success, the song's popularity and legacy is evident in the tributes that the song has been paid.
In 2014, The Haden Triplets, daughters of jazz virtuoso Charlie Haden, paid homage to "Slowly" with a haunting rendition that underscored its timeless appeal. Their interpretation, infused with a delicate blend of folk and Americana, serves as a reminder of the song's enduring impact on the fabric of American music.
