Roy Orbison, the legendary voice behind some of the most emotional and timeless songs in rock and roll history, left an indelible mark on music that continues to resonate today. With his soaring vocals and heart-wrenching lyrics, Orbison crafted a sound that was both haunting and exhilarating, capturing the raw intensity of love, loss, and longing. From his signature dark sunglasses to his powerful ballads, he became an icon of the 1960s, blending rock, country, and pop into a style all his own. Though he was often seen as a mysterious figure, Orbison’s music spoke volumes, touching the hearts of millions across the globe.
In this article, we’ll take a journey through Roy Orbison’s top 10 most popular songs of all time, a collection of masterpieces that defined his career and solidified his place in music history. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his catalog, these songs represent the very best of what made Orbison a true pioneer of his craft. From chart-topping hits to deep cuts that still evoke chills, these tracks showcase the brilliance of an artist whose legacy remains as powerful today as ever. Get ready to rediscover the magic of Roy Orbison!
1. Oh, Pretty Woman (1964)
When “Oh, Pretty Woman” hit the airwaves in 1964, Roy Orbison instantly solidified his place in rock and roll history. This song, with its unforgettable guitar riff and Orbison’s powerful, smooth vocals, captivated audiences worldwide. Co-written by Orbison and Bill Dees, the song narrates a scene familiar to anyone who has experienced love at first sight—a man is awestruck as a beautiful woman walks by, leaving him mesmerized. The song’s catchy rhythm and Orbison’s controlled yet commanding delivery make it impossible not to tap your foot along. It didn’t take long for “Oh, Pretty Woman” to top the charts, reaching number one in multiple countries and becoming one of the defining anthems of the 1960s. Decades later, in 1990, the track was famously featured in the romantic comedy Pretty Woman, reigniting its popularity and introducing it to a new generation of fans. Beyond its commercial success, “Oh, Pretty Woman” showcases Orbison’s extraordinary vocal ability and knack for storytelling, giving it a timeless appeal that resonates across generations. It’s a song that has aged gracefully, forever linked with Orbison’s iconic sound and charismatic persona, proving that some classics never go out of style.
2. Crying (1961)
Released in 1961, “Crying” is one of Roy Orbison’s most poignant songs, capturing the raw pain of lost love in a way few artists can. Orbison wrote this song after a chance encounter with an ex-lover, and every word is soaked in the heartache of seeing someone you once loved but can no longer have. The song starts slowly, pulling listeners into its emotional depth, and builds to a powerful crescendo that mirrors the overwhelming waves of grief and longing. Orbison’s voice carries the narrative with breathtaking range, moving from low, sorrowful notes to soaring high pitches, making the heartbreak almost palpable. The song’s success was immediate, climbing to number two on the U.S. charts and earning critical acclaim for its emotional intensity. Orbison’s performance in “Crying” showcases not only his vocal prowess but also his ability to capture universal emotions through music. His unique ability to convey such vulnerability set him apart from other artists of the time, and “Crying” remains a testament to his skill as a balladeer. Even today, the song resonates with anyone who’s ever felt the sting of unrequited love, marking it as a timeless piece in Orbison’s extensive catalog.
3. Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel) (1960)
“Only the Lonely” was a groundbreaking track for Roy Orbison, marking his emergence as a unique voice in the music industry in 1960. Co-written with Joe Melson, the song taps into the profound loneliness that can haunt a person’s heart, and Orbison’s ethereal voice captures this feeling perfectly. At the time of its release, “Only the Lonely” was revolutionary, with its operatic style and dramatic orchestration blending seamlessly with rock and roll elements. Orbison’s haunting voice and the lush string arrangements created a new sound, one that conveyed deep sadness with unmatched sophistication. The song quickly climbed the charts, peaking at number two in the U.S. and solidifying Orbison’s reputation as an emotional powerhouse. The themes of isolation and longing became hallmarks of Orbison’s music, and “Only the Lonely” remains a beloved anthem for anyone who has ever felt truly alone. Its timeless appeal lies in the way it speaks to the listener’s own emotions, allowing us to feel the vulnerability that Orbison expressed so powerfully.
4. In Dreams (1963)
Released in 1963, “In Dreams” is one of Roy Orbison’s most haunting songs, weaving a beautiful yet heartbreaking story of love lost in the realm of dreams. The song’s narrative draws listeners into a surreal world where Orbison finds solace with a loved one—only for the dream to shatter upon waking. Orbison’s ethereal falsetto and the song’s intricate arrangement give it a haunting, dreamlike quality that lingers long after it ends. Initially, “In Dreams” was a moderate hit, but it gained a cult following when David Lynch featured it prominently in his 1986 film Blue Velvet, bringing new recognition to Orbison’s artistry. The song transports listeners to a place of yearning and nostalgia, its otherworldly quality setting it apart from more conventional love songs. “In Dreams” showcases Orbison’s vocal range and unique ability to convey deep emotion, making it one of his most enduring works and a favorite among fans who appreciate its mystical allure and emotional depth.
5. Blue Bayou (1963)
“Blue Bayou”, released in 1963, is one of Roy Orbison’s most beloved songs, capturing the yearning for a peaceful escape from life’s hardships. Co-written by Orbison and Joe Melson, the song paints a vivid picture of a serene bayou, evoking a simpler, happier time. With a smooth, lilting melody and Orbison’s gentle, tender vocals, “Blue Bayou” creates a tranquil, almost meditative atmosphere that draws listeners in. The song’s melancholic tone resonates deeply with those who have ever felt the pull of nostalgia and a desire to return to a place of comfort. Linda Ronstadt later covered the song in 1977, turning it into a massive hit once again, but it’s Orbison’s original version that continues to captivate audiences with its soulful, heartfelt depth. “Blue Bayou” showcases Orbison’s ability to evoke emotion through simplicity, making it a song that feels as timeless today as it did upon its release.
6. You Got It (1989)
Released posthumously in 1989, “You Got It” brought Roy Orbison back into the spotlight after nearly two decades, proving that his talent was as timeless as ever. Co-written with Jeff Lynne and Tom Petty, the song mixes the freshness of contemporary rock production with the unmistakable classic sound that made Orbison a legend. His voice, still as powerful and emotive as in his earlier years, glides effortlessly over the upbeat, melodic rhythm, creating a sense of joy and devotion. The lyrics are a simple yet profound declaration of love, as Orbison sings of giving his all to someone special. The track’s energy and optimism set it apart from his earlier, more melancholy hits, showing a lighter, more celebratory side of his artistry. Released shortly after Orbison’s passing, “You Got It” served as a poignant reminder of his enduring influence and talent, reaching the top 10 in both the U.S. and the UK. The song remains a fitting tribute to Orbison’s legacy, a symbol of his ability to transcend time and touch the hearts of listeners with his music, even after his death.
7. Running Scared (1961)
“Running Scared”, released in 1961, is a powerful testament to Roy Orbison’s talent for creating dramatic, emotionally intense music. This song tells the story of a man deeply afraid of losing his love to someone from her past, and each verse builds on this fear and insecurity. Unlike many songs of the era, “Running Scared” doesn’t rely on a traditional chorus. Instead, it uses a unique structure that starts softly and slowly builds in intensity, creating a sense of tension that mirrors the narrator’s rising anxiety. Orbison’s vocals are controlled and measured at first, but as the song progresses, he allows his voice to soar, culminating in a stunning crescendo that leaves listeners breathless. This innovative approach helped make the song a number-one hit on the U.S. charts, proving Orbison’s unique ability to evoke intense emotions through his music. “Running Scared” remains a classic, a song that continues to captivate listeners with its raw vulnerability and powerful storytelling.
8. It’s Over (1964)
Released in 1964, “It’s Over” is one of Roy Orbison’s most emotionally powerful songs, capturing the agony of a relationship coming to an end. With its orchestral arrangement and Orbison’s soaring vocals, the song conveys a profound sense of finality and despair. In the lyrics, Orbison reflects on the inevitability of heartbreak, painting a vivid picture of the pain and emptiness left behind when love fades. The song quickly became a success, reaching number one in the UK and climbing to number nine in the U.S. What makes “It’s Over” truly memorable is Orbison’s ability to tap into universal emotions; his voice carries the weight of each word, making listeners feel the depth of his sorrow. This song is a true masterpiece of heartbreak, combining beautifully composed music with deeply evocative lyrics. Few songs capture the raw agony of a breakup as poignantly as “It’s Over”, solidifying its place as one of the most powerful ballads in Orbison’s repertoire.
9. Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream) (1962)
Released in 1962, “Dream Baby” is a lively, upbeat song that highlights Roy Orbison’s versatility as an artist. Written by Cindy Walker, the song stands out for its catchy melody and infectious rhythm, offering a different side of Orbison’s music. Unlike his more melancholic ballads, “Dream Baby” is a playful, rhythmic tune that expresses the joyful yet restless feeling of longing for someone just out of reach. Orbison’s dynamic vocal performance shines as he effortlessly shifts between energetic verses and smooth, melodic choruses. The song quickly became a fan favorite, climbing to number four on the U.S. charts and showing that Orbison could handle upbeat tunes just as masterfully as his more somber work. “Dream Baby” remains a beloved track, a testament to Orbison’s ability to capture the joy of longing and anticipation with as much passion as he could express heartbreak and sorrow.
10. Love Hurts (1961)
“Love Hurts” was originally written by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant, but Roy Orbison’s 1961 rendition turned it into a heartfelt anthem about the pain of love. Orbison’s signature vocal style lends a unique depth to the song, transforming it from a simple ballad into a powerful statement on the bittersweet nature of love. Although it didn’t achieve the same commercial success as some of his other singles, “Love Hurts” became a staple in Orbison’s live performances, resonating deeply with audiences who connected with its emotional honesty. Over the years, the song has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, but Orbison’s version remains one of the most impactful. His ability to convey vulnerability and sorrow made “Love Hurts” an enduring piece of his early catalog, showing that even in his younger years, Orbison had a rare gift for capturing complex emotions through his music. The song stands as a timeless reminder of the delicate balance between love’s beauty and its pain, a theme that would continue to resonate throughout Orbison’s career.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
