The Meaning Behind The Song: Rich Woman by Robert Plant and Alison Krauss
The Origins of Rich Woman
The song “Rich Woman” was originally recorded in 1955 by L’il Millet and his Creoles but the version by Robert Plant and Alison Krauss was released in 2007. The two artists had been long-time friends and had performed together previously. The song was included on their album “Raising Sand,” which was a collaborative project that saw Krauss and Plant melding their vocal styles to create a unique, stripped-down sound.
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The Lyrics of Rich Woman
The lyrics of “Rich Woman” are fairly straightforward. The song tells the story of a man who is in love with a wealthy woman and wants to make her his own. He sings about how he doesn’t care about the woman’s wealth and just wants to be with her, but also acknowledges that her money has given her a certain power over him. The song is set to a bluesy, guitar-driven beat, and Plant and Krauss’s harmonies give it a haunting quality.
The Song’s Message
On the surface, “Rich Woman” is a love song. However, it also has a deeper meaning. The lyrics suggest that wealth can be both a blessing and a curse. The woman in the song may have all the money in the world, but it has also made her lonely and vulnerable. The man in the song, meanwhile, is willing to overlook her wealth and see her for who she really is. The song is a reminder that money can’t buy happiness or love.
Why Rich Woman Resonates with Listeners
“Rich Woman” has resonated with listeners because it speaks to universal themes of love and wealth. The song is a reminder that money can’t buy happiness, but it can make life a lot easier. The lyrics also touch on the idea that social status and wealth can separate people, even if they are truly in love. The haunting melody and harmonies add to the song’s appeal, making it a classic.
The Legacy of Rich Woman
“Rich Woman” has become a classic song, not just because of its timeless message, but also because of the success of Plant and Krauss’s album “Raising Sand.” The album won several Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, and has been hailed as a masterpiece. “Rich Woman” is just one of the standout tracks on the album, but it has become an iconic song in its own right.
FAQs on Rich Woman
1. Who wrote the original version of “Rich Woman?”
The original version of “Rich Woman” was written by Dorothy LaBostrie and Millet.
2. What inspired Krauss and Plant to cover the song?
Krauss and Plant were fans of the original song and felt it would be a good fit for their album “Raising Sand.”
3. What was the significance of “Raising Sand” winning Album of the Year?
The fact that “Raising Sand” won Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards was a testament to the album’s success and influence. It also cemented Plant and Krauss’s place as icons in the music industry.
4. Was “Rich Woman” a hit when it was released?
“Rich Woman” did not chart as a single, but it has become a fan favorite and a staple of Plant and Krauss’s live performances.
5. What other songs were on “Raising Sand?”
“Raising Sand” featured a mix of covers and original songs, including “Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On),” “Please Read the Letter,” and “Killing the Blues.”
6. Have other artists covered “Rich Woman?”
Yes, several artists have covered “Rich Woman,” including Dawn Landes, Buddy Miller, and Cat Power.
7. What other projects have Krauss and Plant worked on together?
Krauss and Plant have collaborated on several projects, including a live album and a performance for the PBS series “Austin City Limits.”
8. How did “Raising Sand” compare to Krauss and Plant’s solo work?
“Raising Sand” was a departure for both artists, as they had previously worked within their respective genres (bluegrass for Krauss and rock for Plant). However, the album showcased their versatility and range as musicians.
9. What awards did “Raising Sand” win?
“Raising Sand” won five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals.
10. What was the reception to “Raising Sand?”
“Raising Sand” was well-received by critics and fans alike. It was hailed as a masterpiece and praised for its unique sound.
11. How did Krauss and Plant’s collaboration come about?
Krauss and Plant had been friends for many years and had performed together previously. They decided to collaborate on an album after realizing they shared a love of roots music.
12. Are Krauss and Plant planning on collaborating again in the future?
There have been no official announcements, but both artists have expressed interest in working together again in the future.
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