Roy Orbison’s “Cat Called Domino” is a rollicking, upbeat track from his 1963 album In Dreams that showcases a lighter, more playful side of the iconic singer. Known for his emotionally charged ballads and haunting vocal delivery, Orbison’s take on rockabilly and pop in this song is a refreshing departure from his usual somber tunes. Despite the catchy beat and fun tone, “Cat Called Domino” is still infused with Orbison’s signature emotional intensity and vocal prowess. It’s a playful mix of rock ‘n’ roll energy and Orbison’s natural charisma, making it a standout track in his discography.
The Song’s Theme and Lyrics
At its core, “Cat Called Domino” is a fun, somewhat cheeky track about a woman named Domino who is portrayed as elusive, independent, and irresistibly charming. The lyrics describe the narrator’s fascination and infatuation with this woman, who is depicted as being both elusive and captivating, much like the playful and mischievous nature of a cat.
The song opens with a playful introduction that quickly sets the tone for the rest of the track:
“Well, she walks down the street, a-swingin’ her hips / And I know she don’t care, but she sure likes to trip.”
The narrator expresses a mixture of admiration and frustration for Domino, who seems to walk through life with a carefree attitude, oblivious to the effect she has on those around her. This cat-like imagery — “swingin’ her hips” and “likes to trip” — gives the impression of someone who is both charming and unpredictable, much like the feline creatures she’s compared to in the title.
As the song continues, the narrator describes his inability to resist Domino, even though he is fully aware of her capricious nature. The chorus repeats the idea that Domino is “a cat called Domino,” reinforcing the metaphor that she is wild and untamed, never fully in the narrator’s control. She represents a kind of mystery and excitement that he finds both alluring and frustrating.
The lyrics are playful and lighthearted, capturing the sense of youthful infatuation and the thrill of chasing after someone who isn’t easily won. There’s an element of humor in the way the narrator describes his feelings, making it clear that while he’s captivated by Domino’s beauty and charm, he’s also well aware of her elusive nature. The playful tone of the lyrics, combined with Orbison’s energetic delivery, makes this song feel like a bit of a departure from his usual style of more emotional ballads.
Roy Orbison’s Vocals
As with many of Orbison’s songs, his vocal delivery is a central element of the track. His voice, known for its extraordinary range and emotional depth, is perfectly suited to the playful, rockabilly vibe of “Cat Called Domino.” The song features Orbison’s signature soaring highs and emotive phrasing, but there’s also a sense of fun in his performance. He sings with an almost mischievous energy, embracing the humor and playfulness of the song’s theme.
Orbison’s voice here is notably less restrained than in his more dramatic ballads. He moves through the song with a sense of lightness, his voice bouncing along with the rhythm of the track. There’s still an undeniable power in his delivery, but he lets loose in a way that feels natural and uninhibited. The energy he brings to the performance enhances the playful nature of the song, helping to elevate the track from a simple pop tune to something more dynamic and fun.
The way Orbison uses his vocal range to convey the narrator’s emotions is also a key factor in the song’s appeal. He shifts from playful, almost teasing tones in the verses to powerful, soaring notes in the chorus, creating a sense of contrast that mirrors the push and pull of his infatuation with Domino. His vocal performance is engaging and captures the light-heartedness of the song, while still maintaining the emotional resonance that Orbison was known for.
The Arrangement and Production
“Cat Called Domino” features a rockabilly-inspired arrangement with upbeat guitar riffs, a driving rhythm section, and a catchy piano line that propels the song forward. The track is fast-paced and lively, giving it a sense of urgency and excitement that complements the song’s playful lyrics. The rhythm section provides a steady, bouncing beat, while the guitar and piano add a layer of energy and fun to the mix.
The production is clean and crisp, allowing the instruments and Orbison’s vocals to shine through clearly. The arrangement has a slight retro vibe, with its catchy hooks and energetic feel, which was typical of early 1960s rock ‘n’ roll. However, it’s still distinctly Orbison, as the emotional depth of his voice is front and center, even in this more playful context.
The use of background vocals also adds to the song’s infectious energy. The harmonies create a sense of movement and help to build the momentum throughout the track. The arrangement keeps things simple but effective, never overshadowing Orbison’s voice, but always providing the right support to enhance the song’s overall mood.
The lively, rockabilly-inspired sound is complemented by the occasional use of subtle string elements, adding a sense of grandeur without detracting from the fun, upbeat feel of the song. The overall production style is characteristic of the early 1960s, a time when rock ‘n’ roll and pop were beginning to evolve, but Orbison’s timeless vocal style helps keep the song grounded in his unique sound.
Emotional Tone and Impact
While “Cat Called Domino” is largely lighthearted and playful, there’s still an underlying sense of emotional depth. Even though the song is about a carefree woman who is hard to pin down, there’s a sense of yearning and longing in the narrator’s voice. His infatuation with Domino is palpable, and while the song doesn’t delve into the deep emotional struggles of some of Orbison’s other hits, it still conveys a sense of desire and frustration.
The song’s impact comes from the way it blends a sense of fun with a subtle undercurrent of emotional complexity. The narrator is clearly infatuated with Domino, but there’s also an element of frustration in his pursuit of her. The cat metaphor adds a sense of mystery to the character of Domino, making her both fascinating and elusive. This contrast between the lighthearted tone and the underlying emotions is a hallmark of Orbison’s music, as he was able to take seemingly simple themes and infuse them with depth and complexity.
Legacy and Influence
Though “Cat Called Domino” might not have reached the same level of recognition as some of Orbison’s most iconic hits, such as “Only the Lonely” or “Pretty Woman,” it remains an important part of his musical catalog. The song demonstrates Orbison’s versatility as an artist, showing that he was capable of delivering more than just melancholic ballads. It’s also a testament to his ability to capture a range of emotions — from the light and playful to the deeply emotional — with the same level of intensity and sincerity.
The song has remained a favorite among Orbison fans and has influenced later rockabilly and pop artists who appreciated Orbison’s mix of rock ‘n’ roll energy and emotional depth. His ability to navigate different genres and tones, from upbeat rockers like “Cat Called Domino” to heart-wrenching ballads, set him apart as one of the most versatile and enduring artists of his time.
Conclusion
“Cat Called Domino” is a delightful track that showcases a more playful, rockabilly-inspired side of Roy Orbison’s artistry. With its infectious energy, catchy arrangement, and Orbison’s dynamic vocal performance, the song stands out as one of his more fun and lighthearted offerings. While it lacks the emotional gravitas of some of Orbison’s other work, it still carries a sense of yearning and longing beneath its upbeat exterior. The song highlights Orbison’s ability to infuse his music with emotional depth, whether he’s singing about love and heartbreak or, in this case, a carefree and elusive woman. “Cat Called Domino” remains a testament to his versatility, blending rock ‘n’ roll with his timeless vocal prowess.
