Roy Orbison (1936–1988) was an American singer-songwriter and a pioneer in the rock and roll and pop music landscape. Born in Texas, Orbison possessed a distinct and powerful tenor voice, earning him the nickname “The Big O.” He seamlessly blended elements of rock, pop, and country, creating a unique sound that resonated across generations.
Orbison rose to prominence in the late 1950s and early 1960s with a string of hits, including “Only the Lonely,” “Crying,” and “Oh, Pretty Woman.” His operatic vocal style, often accompanied by emotional and melancholic ballads, set him apart in an era dominated by more upbeat rock and roll.
Orbison’s contributions to the rock and roll genre were marked by his exceptional songwriting and emotive performances. His dark shades, trademark black attire, and an iconic falsetto made him a recognizable figure in the music industry. Despite facing personal tragedies, Orbison’s career endured, and he experienced a resurgence in the late 1980s with the formation of the supergroup Traveling Wilburys.
Roy Orbison left an indelible mark on the music world, influencing subsequent generations of artists with his timeless songs and unparalleled vocal prowess. His legacy as a rock and roll legend continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
1. “Oh, Pretty Woman”
“Oh, Pretty Woman” is a classic rock and roll song by Roy Orbison, released in 1964. Co-written by Orbison and Bill Dees, the song became one of Orbison’s most iconic and successful hits. With its infectious melody, memorable guitar riff, and Orbison’s distinctive vocals, “Oh, Pretty Woman” is recognized as a timeless classic in the rock genre.
The song’s narrative tells the story of a man who sees a beautiful woman while walking down the street. The catchy chorus and Orbison’s emotive delivery add a layer of charm and playfulness to the composition. The memorable refrain, “Pretty woman, walking down the street / Pretty woman, the kind I like to meet,” became a cultural touchstone.
Released as a single, “Oh, Pretty Woman” topped the charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. The success of the song contributed to Orbison’s reputation as a masterful songwriter and performer. Its enduring popularity is evidenced by its frequent use in films, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its status as a rock and roll classic.
2. “Crying”
“Crying” is a classic ballad by Roy Orbison, released in 1961. It’s one of Orbison’s most iconic and enduring songs, known for its emotional depth and Orbison’s powerful vocal delivery. The song was co-written by Orbison and Joe Melson.
The lyrics of “Crying” depict the heartbreak and sorrow of unrequited love. Orbison’s emotive singing style adds a layer of vulnerability, capturing the pain of losing someone special. The poignant chorus, where Orbison sings “Crying over you,” resonates with the universal experience of love and loss.
Musically, “Crying” features Orbison’s distinctive operatic and powerful tenor voice, complemented by a dramatic orchestral arrangement. The song’s structure, with its building crescendos, contributes to its emotional impact. Orbison’s use of falsetto during the song’s climax is particularly memorable.
“Crying” became a commercial success, reaching high positions on various charts. Its enduring popularity is evident in its continued use in films, television, and as a staple in Orbison’s catalog. The song remains a poignant example of Orbison’s ability to convey deep emotions through his voice and songwriting.
3. “Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel)”
“Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel)” is a classic ballad by Roy Orbison, released in 1960. It was written by Orbison and Joe Melson and became one of Orbison’s signature songs. The track was a major commercial success and played a crucial role in establishing Orbison as a prominent figure in the rock and roll era.
The lyrics of “Only the Lonely” express the loneliness and heartache of unrequited love. Orbison’s emotive and powerful vocals convey a deep sense of longing, capturing the pain of being alone despite being surrounded by others. The chorus features the iconic line “Only the lonely know the way I feel,” which became synonymous with the emotional impact of Orbison’s music.
Musically, the song is characterized by its orchestral arrangement, with a prominent use of strings that enhances the melancholic atmosphere. Orbison’s vocal range and delivery, including his distinctive operatic falsetto, contribute to the haunting beauty of the song.
“Only the Lonely” topped the charts in multiple countries and established Roy Orbison as a unique and influential voice in the early 1960s. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its emotional resonance and Orbison’s timeless ability to convey universal themes of heartbreak and solitude.
4. “In Dreams”
“In Dreams” is a hauntingly beautiful song by Roy Orbison, released in 1963. Written by Orbison himself, the song is characterized by its emotionally charged lyrics, Orbison’s powerful vocals, and a distinctive orchestral arrangement.
The lyrics of “In Dreams” depict a melancholic narrative where the singer experiences the bittersweet pain of being reunited with a lost love in his dreams, only to wake up and realize the harsh reality of their absence. The contrast between the dream world and reality adds depth and poignancy to the song.
Roy Orbison’s operatic tenor voice, often described as one of the greatest in the history of rock and roll, shines in “In Dreams.” His ability to convey deep emotions through his vocal delivery, combined with the song’s evocative melody, creates a timeless and enduring piece.
The song gained renewed attention when it was prominently featured in David Lynch’s film “Blue Velvet” (1986), further solidifying its status as a classic. “In Dreams” remains a poignant example of Roy Orbison’s songwriting and vocal prowess, showcasing his ability to capture the complexities of love and loss.
5. “You Got It”
“You Got It” is a song by Roy Orbison, released in 1989 as a single from his album “Mystery Girl.” Orbison co-wrote the song with Jeff Lynne and Tom Petty, both of whom were his bandmates in the Traveling Wilburys. The song became one of Orbison’s most successful posthumous releases.
“You Got It” is known for its catchy and upbeat melody, featuring Orbison’s signature soaring vocals. The song radiates positivity and romantic sentiment, with lyrics expressing admiration and affection. The chorus, with its repeating refrain of “Anything you want, you got it,” adds to the song’s charm and accessibility.
The music video for “You Got It” features a compilation of footage of Orbison throughout his career, paying tribute to his legacy. The song reached the top of the charts and became a major hit, marking a successful return for Orbison in the late 1980s.
Roy Orbison’s enduring influence and the timeless appeal of “You Got It” have solidified its place among his classic repertoire. The song remains a beloved example of Orbison’s ability to craft emotionally resonant and melodically engaging music.
6. “Blue Bayou”
“Blue Bayou” is a classic ballad written by Roy Orbison and Joe Melson. Originally recorded by Orbison in 1963, the song gained widespread popularity with a cover version by Linda Ronstadt in 1977. Both versions showcase the emotive and evocative qualities that make “Blue Bayou” a timeless piece.
In the song, the narrator expresses a deep sense of nostalgia and longing for a place called Blue Bayou, a metaphorical destination representing a peaceful and idyllic home. The lyrics convey a desire to return to this place of comfort and escape from the challenges and uncertainties of life.
Roy Orbison’s original recording features his signature soaring vocals and a lush orchestral arrangement, creating a dreamy and emotional atmosphere. Linda Ronstadt’s cover brought a country-rock flavor to the song, blending her powerful voice with a rich instrumentation that includes pedal steel guitar.
“Blue Bayou” has been covered by various artists over the years, but Orbison and Ronstadt’s renditions remain particularly iconic. The song has been praised for its emotional depth, beautiful melody, and the universal theme of seeking solace and belonging. It continues to resonate with audiences as a classic representation of timeless balladry.
7. “Running Scared”
“Running Scared” is a classic song by Roy Orbison, released in 1961. Written by Orbison and Joe Melson, the song is known for its dramatic and emotionally charged composition, showcasing Orbison’s distinctive voice and his ability to convey a sense of vulnerability and urgency.
The lyrics of “Running Scared” tell the story of a man who is fearful and uncertain about losing his romantic partner. The song builds tension and intensity, capturing the essence of emotional turmoil. Orbison’s vocal range and delivery contribute to the haunting quality of the track.
The innovative use of the falsetto and Orbison’s ability to convey deep emotion through his singing set “Running Scared” apart as a unique and memorable piece in Orbison’s discography. The song features a distinctive arrangement, with a prominent orchestral backing that adds to the overall grandeur of the composition.
“Running Scared” became one of Roy Orbison’s biggest hits, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. Its enduring popularity has solidified its status as a classic in the rock and roll genre, celebrated for its emotive power, Orbison’s vocal artistry, and its contribution to the golden era of early 1960s pop music.
8. “It’s Over”
“It’s Over” is a classic song by Roy Orbison, released in 1964. Co-written by Orbison and Bill Dees, the song is renowned for its emotionally charged lyrics, Orbison’s powerful vocals, and its orchestral arrangement. “It’s Over” is often considered one of Orbison’s most iconic and enduring ballads.
The lyrics of “It’s Over” convey a sense of heartbreak and resignation as the narrator acknowledges the end of a romantic relationship. Orbison’s emotive delivery adds depth and sincerity to the lyrics, capturing the pain of lost love. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “It’s over, it’s over, it’s over,” becomes a poignant and memorable expression of closure.
The song’s orchestral arrangement, featuring sweeping strings and a dramatic musical backdrop, enhances the emotional impact of the composition. Orbison’s operatic tenor voice, with its distinct vibrato, shines in “It’s Over,” creating a timeless and evocative piece.
“It’s Over” was a commercial success, reaching high chart positions globally. The song’s enduring popularity has solidified its status as a classic in the realm of rock and pop ballads, celebrated for its emotional resonance and Orbison’s vocal artistry.
9. “Love Hurts”
“Love Hurts” is a classic ballad that has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but one of the most well-known versions is by the rock band Nazareth. The song was written by Boudleaux Bryant and first recorded by The Everly Brothers in 1960. However, Nazareth’s rendition, released in 1975, became the most famous and successful version.
The lyrics of “Love Hurts” explore the emotional pain and heartache that can accompany romantic relationships. The song suggests that the experience of love can be both beautiful and painful, highlighting the dual nature of this complex emotion.
Nazareth’s version of “Love Hurts” is characterized by its powerful and emotive vocals, particularly in the soulful interpretation by lead singer Dan McCafferty. The arrangement features a combination of acoustic and electric guitars, contributing to the melancholic and poignant atmosphere of the song.
“Love Hurts” became a major hit for Nazareth, reaching high chart positions in multiple countries. The song has since become a classic rock ballad and is often associated with the theme of heartbreak. Its enduring popularity has led to various artists covering the song, each bringing their own interpretation to the timeless theme of love’s emotional toll.
10. “Pretty Paper”
“Pretty Paper” is a classic Christmas song written by Roy Orbison. It was first released as a single in 1963 and later included on Orbison’s holiday album of the same name. The song is notable for its heartfelt and poignant lyrics, which Orbison delivers with his trademark emotion and vocal finesse.
The lyrics of “Pretty Paper” tell the story of a street vendor selling holiday wares and decorations on a busy city sidewalk. Amid the festive atmosphere, the singer notices a sense of loneliness and sadness in the eyes of the people passing by. The refrain features the repeated line “Pretty paper, pretty ribbons of blue,” referring to the colorful holiday decorations.
Roy Orbison’s rendition of “Pretty Paper” captures the bittersweet essence of the holiday season, acknowledging the contrast between the joyful festivities and the personal struggles that some individuals may face. The song’s melody, combined with Orbison’s emotive delivery, adds a layer of warmth and nostalgia to the Christmas narrative.
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.
