Roy Orbison was a renowned American singer-songwriter known for his distinctive voice and emotive ballads. His hits include classics like “Oh, Pretty Woman,” “Crying,” and “Only the Lonely.” Orbison’s music often featured lush orchestral arrangements and dramatic, heartfelt lyrics. His influence spans across various genres, and he’s celebrated for his contributions to rock and roll and pop music. Are you a fan of his work or exploring his music for a specific reason?
1. Oh, Pretty Woman
“Oh, Pretty Woman” is one of Roy Orbison’s most iconic songs, released in 1964. It’s a classic rock and pop song characterized by its catchy melody and memorable lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who sees a beautiful woman walking down the street and is captivated by her charm. It became a major hit, reaching the top of the charts and solidifying Orbison’s place in music history.
The song has been covered by numerous artists and was even featured prominently in the 1990 film of the same name, starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. The catchy guitar riff and Orbison’s emotive delivery make it a timeless piece. Do you have a favorite part of the song or any particular reason for bringing it up?
2. Crying
“Crying” is another of Roy Orbison’s most powerful and emotionally resonant songs. Released in 1961, the song features Orbison’s distinctive vocal style and showcases his ability to convey deep emotion. The lyrics describe a man who is heartbroken after a painful breakup, and the song’s dramatic arrangement underscores the sorrow and vulnerability expressed in the lyrics.
Orbison’s performance of “Crying” is noted for its intensity and the use of a string section that adds to the song’s melancholic feel. The song was a major hit, reaching the top of the charts and becoming one of his signature pieces.
“Crying” has been covered by many artists over the years, including a notable duet version with k.d. lang in 1987, which introduced the song to a new generation. The song’s poignant lyrics and Orbison’s haunting delivery continue to resonate with listeners today. Do you have a particular favorite line or aspect of the song?
3. In Dreams
“In Dreams” is a song by Roy Orbison, released in 1963. Written by Orbison and Joe Melson, the track features Orbison’s distinctive, emotive vocal style and a lush, cinematic arrangement. The song’s lyrics describe a dreamlike, romantic vision where the narrator experiences a perfect, albeit fleeting, love. Its orchestral backing, dramatic mood, and Orbison’s powerful delivery create a sense of longing and wistfulness. “In Dreams” is renowned for its haunting melody and has been widely recognized for its influence on the genre, showcasing Orbison’s talent for blending lyrical depth with rich, emotional music.
4. Only the Lonely
“Only the Lonely” is a classic song by Roy Orbison, released in 1960. Written by Roy Orbison and Joe Melson, the track features Orbison’s signature dramatic vocal style and lush orchestral arrangement. The song’s lyrics convey a deep sense of heartache and longing, focusing on the emotional pain of loneliness and unrequited love. With its melancholy melody and Orbison’s powerful, expressive voice, “Only the Lonely” became one of his most iconic hits. The track is celebrated for its emotional depth and has had a lasting impact on the pop and rock music landscape, highlighting Orbison’s unique ability to blend pop and classical influences.
5. Running Scared
“Running Scared” is a song by Roy Orbison, released in 1961. Written by Roy Orbison and Joe Melson, the track features Orbison’s dramatic vocal style and a dynamic orchestral arrangement. The song tells the story of a man who is overwhelmed by fear and anxiety after a romantic relationship ends, reflecting a sense of urgency and desperation. The song is known for its intense emotional delivery and its innovative use of orchestration, including soaring strings and a powerful rhythm section. “Running Scared” became a major hit, showcasing Orbison’s ability to convey deep emotion through his music and solidifying his place as a leading figure in rock and pop music.
6. You Got It
“You Got It” is one of Roy Orbison’s later hits, released in 1989. This song marked a significant comeback for Orbison and is known for its smooth, timeless sound and Orbison’s signature vocal style. It was the lead single from his album *Mystery Girl*, which was released shortly before his death.
The song’s lyrics celebrate love and affection, with a positive and uplifting message. The production features a blend of rock, pop, and a bit of Orbison’s classic style, making it a standout track in his discography. “You Got It” reached the top of the charts and was well-received by both critics and fans, showcasing Orbison’s enduring talent and appeal.
The music video, featuring Orbison’s distinctive look and soulful performance, also contributed to the song’s popularity. The track remains a testament to Orbison’s lasting influence on music. Do you enjoy this song or have any thoughts about its impact?
7. Dream Baby
“Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream)” is a song by Roy Orbison, released in 1962. Written by Cindy Walker, the track showcases Orbison’s signature emotional depth and vocal prowess. The song features a melodious and upbeat arrangement, with Orbison delivering heartfelt lyrics about longing for a dream love. The production includes a rich blend of orchestration and a catchy melody, emphasizing the song’s theme of yearning and romantic desire. “Dream Baby” became a significant hit, demonstrating Orbison’s ability to blend poignant storytelling with engaging pop melodies, and remains a classic in his impressive catalog.
8. Blue Bayou
“Blue Bayou” is another notable song associated with Roy Orbison, although it was originally written and performed by him in 1963. The song is a poignant, emotional ballad with a dreamy, nostalgic feel. It expresses longing for a return to a simpler, happier time and place, symbolized by the “blue bayou.”
Orbison’s version of “Blue Bayou” wasn’t a major hit at the time, but it has since become a beloved classic. The song gained renewed popularity when Linda Ronstadt covered it in 1977. Ronstadt’s rendition reached the top of the charts and introduced the song to a wider audience, further cementing its status as a timeless piece.
The song’s haunting melody and evocative lyrics make it a standout in Orbison’s catalog. Its theme of yearning and reminiscence resonates with many listeners, showcasing Orbison’s skill in capturing deep emotional experiences through his music. Do you have a favorite version of the song or any specific reason you’re interested in it?
9. Mean Woman Blues
“Mean Woman Blues” is a song famously performed by Roy Orbison, released in 1963. Written by Claude Demetrius, the track features Orbison’s emotive vocal delivery and a blend of rock and roll with a bluesy edge. The lyrics describe a turbulent relationship with a “mean woman,” conveying the narrator’s frustration and heartache. The song’s energetic beat, catchy melody, and Orbison’s expressive performance create a dynamic and memorable listening experience. “Mean Woman Blues” stands out for its blend of rockabilly and blues influences, showcasing Orbison’s versatility and adding to his reputation as a powerful performer in the early 1960s.
10. It’s Over
“It’s Over” is another powerful song by Roy Orbison, released in 1964. The song is known for its dramatic and emotional delivery, which is characteristic of Orbison’s style. The lyrics express the feelings of a man who has come to terms with the end of a relationship, conveying a sense of finality and heartache.
The song features Orbison’s signature vocal intensity and a lush orchestral arrangement, which adds to the emotional impact of the track. It’s a great example of Orbison’s ability to blend powerful lyrics with stirring melodies.
“It’s Over” wasn’t as commercially successful as some of Orbison’s other hits, but it remains a favorite among fans for its raw emotion and the depth of its lyrical content. The song’s themes of loss and resignation are conveyed with a sense of elegance and sorrow that are hallmarks of Orbison’s work. Is there something specific you like about this song or its impact on you?
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.
