Roy Orbison (1936–1988) was an iconic American singer, songwriter, and musician, known for his powerful and emotive voice, as well as his distinctive style that combined rock and roll, country, and pop influences. Born on April 23, 1936, in Vernon, Texas, Orbison rose to prominence in the late 1950s and early 1960s with a string of hit songs that have since become classics.
Some of Roy Orbison’s most famous songs include “Only the Lonely,” “Crying,” “In Dreams,” and “Oh, Pretty Woman.” His operatic vocal style, often featuring falsetto and a wide vocal range, set him apart from his contemporaries. Orbison’s haunting and romantic ballads resonated with audiences and contributed to his status as one of the great voices in rock and roll history.
Despite facing personal and professional challenges, including the tragic death of his first wife and temporary periods of commercial decline, Orbison experienced a career resurgence in the late 1980s. He joined the supergroup Traveling Wilburys, alongside Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, and Tom Petty, and their collaboration resulted in successful albums.
Tragically, Roy Orbison passed away on December 6, 1988, at the age of 52. His influence on the rock and roll genre, as well as his timeless ballads, continues to be celebrated, and he remains a revered figure in the history of popular music.
1. “Oh, Pretty Woman”
“Oh, Pretty Woman” is one of Roy Orbison’s most famous and enduring songs, released in 1964. Co-written by Orbison and Bill Dees, the song became a massive international hit and is considered one of the defining tracks of the early 1960s.
The song features a distinctive and memorable guitar riff, played by session guitarist Billy Sanford, which opens the track and contributes to its instantly recognizable sound. “Oh, Pretty Woman” tells the story of a man who sees a beautiful woman walking down the street and expresses his admiration for her. The song’s catchy melody, Orbison’s soulful vocals, and the cleverly crafted lyrics contributed to its widespread appeal.
“Oh, Pretty Woman” topped the charts in the United States and numerous other countries, solidifying Roy Orbison’s status as a rock and roll icon. The success of the song was further amplified by the release of a popular music video, a rarity for the time. The song’s popularity endured over the years, and it has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials.
Notably, “Oh, Pretty Woman” was a significant part of Roy Orbison’s musical legacy, showcasing his ability to create timeless and universally appealing pop-rock hits. The song’s success also contributed to Orbison’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987.
2. “Crying”
“Crying” by Roy Orbison is an iconic ballad that resonates with its listeners through its poignant lyrics and Orbison’s soul-stirring vocals. Released in 1961, the song became a classic in Orbison’s repertoire, known for its powerful emotions and haunting melody.
The song delves into the theme of heartbreak and unrequited love, portraying the raw, visceral pain of losing someone dear. Orbison’s distinct, operatic voice adds depth to the lyrics, conveying a profound sense of longing and sorrow. The chorus, with its repeated lament of “I was all right for a while, I could smile for a while, but I saw you last night, you held my hand so tight, as you stopped to say ‘Hello,'” captures the essence of seeing a past love and the emotional turmoil it stirs.
The music itself is a blend of orchestral and rock elements, creating a dramatic backdrop that complements the intensity of the lyrics. Orbison’s vocal range shines in this song, soaring effortlessly through the highs and lows, expressing the ache of heartache and the struggle to conceal the pain.
“Crying” stands as a timeless ballad that captures the universal experience of loss and the struggle to come to terms with a broken heart. Its emotive power and Orbison’s impassioned delivery make it an enduring piece that continues to resonate with audiences across generations.
3. “Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel)”
“Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel)” is one of Roy Orbison’s early hits, released in 1960. Co-written by Orbison and Joe Melson, the song marked a pivotal moment in Orbison’s career and established him as a distinctive voice in the rock and roll era.
The song’s lyrics convey a sense of heartbreak and loneliness, capturing the emotions of someone who feels isolated despite being surrounded by people. Orbison’s delivery, characterized by his powerful and emotive vocals, added a depth of feeling to the song that resonated with listeners.
“Only the Lonely” became a commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s success marked the beginning of a string of hits for Orbison throughout the 1960s, establishing him as one of the leading figures in the rock and pop music landscape.
Orbison’s signature sound, which combined his distinctive voice with lush orchestration and dramatic arrangements, was evident in “Only the Lonely.” The song’s enduring popularity has led to its inclusion in various “best of” and retrospective compilations, cementing its status as one of the classic ballads of the early rock and roll era.
4. “In Dreams”
“In Dreams” is an evocative song by Roy Orbison that embodies a dreamlike atmosphere, weaving a narrative of longing, surrealism, and unattainable desires. Released in 1963 as part of Orbison’s repertoire, the song stands out for its haunting melody and Orbison’s emotive vocals.
The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a dream where the singer finds solace in reuniting with a lost love. Orbison’s distinctive voice carries a mix of emotions, ranging from wistfulness to aching yearning, as he describes the bittersweet experience of being with the beloved figure within the confines of a dream.
The dream-like quality of the music amplifies the song’s ethereal nature, creating an otherworldly ambiance that blurs the lines between reality and imagination. The haunting melody, coupled with Orbison’s heartfelt delivery, captures the longing for a love that seems unattainable in the waking world.
The recurring theme of dreaming and the powerful imagery painted by the lyrics make “In Dreams” a deeply emotive piece. Its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia, yearning, and the blurred boundaries between fantasy and reality resonates with listeners, making it an enduring classic in Orbison’s catalog.
5. “You Got It”
“You Got It” is a buoyant, uplifting song by the legendary Roy Orbison, released in 1989. It stands out for its infectious melody, catchy hooks, and Orbison’s timeless vocals that radiate joy and positivity.
The track is a celebration of love and admiration, expressing the singer’s elation and awe towards a special someone. Orbison’s smooth, velvety voice effortlessly delivers lyrics that convey admiration and affection. The chorus, with its simple yet powerful declaration of “Anything you want, you got it, anything you need, you got it,” resonates as a promise of unwavering support and devotion.
The song’s upbeat tempo, coupled with its pop-rock arrangement and Orbison’s signature vocal prowess, creates an irresistibly feel-good atmosphere. It’s a testament to the joy of being in love and the willingness to fulfill every desire of the beloved.
“You Got It” remains a timeless classic, remembered for its infectious optimism, catchy tune, and Orbison’s masterful performance. Its message of unconditional love and unwavering support continues to resonate, making it a beloved song for audiences across generations.
6. “Blue Bayou”
“Blue Bayou” is a classic song written by Roy Orbison and Joe Melson. Orbison released the song as a single in 1963, and it later became one of his most beloved and enduring hits. The song’s wistful and nostalgic tone, combined with Orbison’s emotive vocals, contributed to its widespread appeal.
“Blue Bayou” tells the story of someone who longs to return to the idyllic and serene Blue Bayou, a place of comfort and solace. The lyrics express a deep sense of yearning for a lost paradise and a desire to escape the challenges of life.
Orbison’s signature operatic voice, with its rich timbre and expressive range, is particularly well-suited for conveying the emotions embedded in the song. The arrangement features a prominent string section, adding to the melancholic atmosphere of the track.
Over the years, “Blue Bayou” has been covered by various artists, but Orbison’s original version remains the most celebrated. The song has been featured in movies, television shows, and commercials, contributing to its enduring popularity. “Blue Bayou” stands as a testament to Roy Orbison’s ability to craft emotionally resonant ballads that have left a lasting impact on the landscape of popular music.
7. “Running Scared”
“Running Scared” is a classic song by Roy Orbison, released in 1961. Co-written by Orbison and Joe Melson, the song is known for its dramatic arrangement, Orbison’s powerful vocals, and its unique structure, featuring a key change that builds tension and intensity.
“Running Scared” tells the story of a man who is afraid to lose his romantic partner, expressing the fear and vulnerability that come with love. The lyrics convey a sense of desperation and heartache as the protagonist contemplates the potential loss of the person he loves.
One of the distinctive features of “Running Scared” is its use of a rising key change toward the end of the song. This musical device adds a sense of urgency and emotional climax to the track, enhancing the impact of Orbison’s impassioned delivery.
The song became a major hit for Roy Orbison, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its success further solidified Orbison’s reputation as a masterful vocalist and songwriter. “Running Scared” remains a classic in Orbison’s catalog and is often cited as one of the defining songs of the early 1960s.
8. “It’s Over”
“It’s Over” is a poignant ballad by Roy Orbison that captures the heartache and pain of a love that has come to an end. Released in 1964, the song is a powerful testament to Orbison’s emotive vocals and his ability to convey profound emotions through his music.
The lyrics depict the aftermath of a breakup, portraying the moment when the realization sets in that a relationship has irreversibly ended. Orbison’s hauntingly beautiful voice carries a mix of sadness and resignation as he sings about the sorrow of parting ways with a loved one. Lines like “Your baby doesn’t love you anymore” and “It’s over, it’s over, it’s over” echo the finality and emotional turmoil of a failed relationship.
The music itself is soulful and dramatic, featuring Orbison’s trademark operatic style combined with orchestral arrangements that intensify the emotional impact of the song. The combination of poignant lyrics and Orbison’s heartfelt delivery creates a deeply moving experience for the listeners.
“It’s Over” stands as a timeless classic that resonates with anyone who has experienced the pain of a breakup. Orbison’s ability to capture the essence of heartache and loss in this song has solidified its place as one of his most iconic and emotionally charged pieces in music history.
9. “Love Hurts”
“Love Hurts” is a classic song that has been covered by various artists, but one of the most iconic versions was recorded by Roy Orbison in 1961. The song was written by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant and has become a timeless ballad that explores the emotional pain associated with love.
Roy Orbison’s rendition of “Love Hurts” features his trademark powerful and emotive vocals. The song expresses the anguish and heartbreak that often accompany romantic relationships, portraying love as a source of both joy and pain. The poignant lyrics, combined with Orbison’s soulful delivery, create a moving and memorable musical experience.
While Orbison’s version is well-known, “Love Hurts” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Nazareth, who recorded a notable rock version in 1975 that also achieved commercial success. The song’s enduring popularity attests to its universal theme and the ability of different artists to bring their own interpretations to the emotional resonance of the lyrics.
“Love Hurts” has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, further contributing to its status as a timeless classic exploring the complexities of romantic relationships.
10. “Pretty Paper”
“Pretty Paper” is a beloved Christmas song written by country music legend Willie Nelson. Released in 1963, the song paints a poignant picture of the holiday season through the eyes of a street vendor selling colorful wrapping paper and ribbons amidst the bustling city streets.
The lyrics of “Pretty Paper” evoke a sense of empathy and compassion, narrating the story of a disabled street vendor who sells pretty paper, ribbons of blue, and other festive items, despite facing challenges due to his physical condition. The song captures the contrast between the joyful celebrations of Christmas shoppers and the vendor’s solitary existence on the streets.
Willie Nelson’s soulful rendition, accompanied by gentle guitar melodies and a reflective tone, adds depth to the song’s narrative. The melancholic yet hopeful lyrics convey a message of kindness and the importance of acknowledging and caring for those who might be overlooked during the holiday season.
“Pretty Paper” stands out as a touching reminder to pause amid the holiday rush and extend compassion and kindness to others, especially to those facing hardships. Its enduring popularity lies in its ability to evoke emotions of empathy and reflection, making it a cherished addition to the repertoire of Christmas classics.