Few voices in music history are as instantly recognizable or as hauntingly beautiful as that of Roy Orbison. Known as “The Caruso of Rock,” Orbison’s powerful, operatic voice and deeply emotional songs touched the hearts of millions across the globe. From the soaring highs of his falsetto to the deep, resonant lows, Orbison’s vocal range was nothing short of extraordinary. His music transcended genres, blending elements of rock, pop, country, and even operatic influences, creating timeless hits that still resonate today.
In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular Roy Orbison songs of all time. These tracks have become iconic anthems, defining moments in the history of rock and roll. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering Orbison’s genius for the first time, this list will take you on an emotional rollercoaster through the highs and lows of love, loss, and longing—emotions that Orbison so masterfully captured in his music. Get ready to relive the magic of Roy Orbison, as we count down the songs that made him a legend, leaving an indelible mark on the soundtrack of our lives.
1. “Oh, Pretty Woman” (1964)
Released in 1964, “Oh, Pretty Woman” quickly became Roy Orbison’s signature song and one of the most iconic tracks in rock and roll history. With its unforgettable guitar riff and Orbison’s commanding vocal performance, the song captured the essence of a man mesmerized by a beautiful woman walking down the street. Co-written by Orbison and his longtime collaborator Bill Dees, “Oh, Pretty Woman” topped the charts in multiple countries and has since been featured in countless movies, commercials, and cover versions. Its crossover appeal made it a timeless classic, and even decades later, the song continues to be a staple in popular culture. The track’s infectious rhythm and Orbison’s effortless charisma made it an instant anthem that solidified his place among rock legends.
2. “Crying” (1961)
First released in 1961, “Crying” is a heart-wrenching ballad that showcases Roy Orbison’s unparalleled ability to convey deep emotion through music. The song tells a story of lost love, with Orbison’s voice soaring from delicate vulnerability to powerful intensity, perfectly capturing the pain of heartache. The poignant lyrics combined with the lush orchestral arrangement create a moving experience that resonates with listeners on a profound level. “Crying” became one of Orbison’s most successful singles, reaching the top of the charts and earning him widespread acclaim. Over the years, it has been covered by numerous artists and remains one of the most beloved songs in Orbison’s catalog, a testament to its enduring emotional impact.
3. “Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel)” (1960)
Released in 1960, “Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel)” was Roy Orbison’s breakthrough hit, marking the beginning of his rise to stardom. The song introduced the world to Orbison’s unique vocal style, characterized by its operatic range and deep emotional resonance. Written by Orbison and Joe Melson, the track explores themes of loneliness and unrequited love, with a haunting melody that underscores the depth of the singer’s sorrow. The song’s innovative structure and Orbison’s dramatic delivery made it a standout hit, reaching the top of the charts and establishing him as a major force in the music industry. “Only the Lonely” set the stage for the series of hits that would follow, cementing Orbison’s legacy as a master of the ballad.
4. “In Dreams” (1963)
“In Dreams,” released in 1963, is one of Roy Orbison’s most hauntingly beautiful songs. The track is notable for its dreamlike quality, with Orbison’s ethereal voice floating over a lush, cinematic arrangement. The lyrics tell the story of a man who finds solace in his dreams, where he is reunited with a lost love, only to wake up to the harsh reality of their separation. The song’s unconventional structure, which builds in intensity without repeating a chorus, showcases Orbison’s innovative approach to songwriting. “In Dreams” became a hit upon its release and later gained renewed attention after being featured in the 1986 film “Blue Velvet.” The song’s emotional depth and unique composition have made it a standout in Orbison’s discography, beloved by fans and critics alike.
5. “Running Scared” (1961)
Released in 1961, “Running Scared” is a dramatic, tension-filled ballad that perfectly captures the anxiety of a man fearing the loss of his lover. The song builds gradually, starting with a simple, almost timid melody, and crescendos to a powerful climax where Orbison’s voice reaches its full operatic potential. The lyrics, co-written by Orbison and Joe Melson, depict a man who is “running scared” of losing the love of his life to a rival. The suspenseful arrangement, combined with Orbison’s soaring vocals, creates a palpable sense of urgency that leaves listeners on the edge of their seats. “Running Scared” topped the charts and remains a testament to Orbison’s ability to convey deep emotion through his music.
6. “Blue Bayou” (1963)
“Blue Bayou,” released in 1963, is one of Roy Orbison’s most evocative and enduring songs. The track paints a vivid picture of longing for a simpler, more peaceful life, far away from the hustle and bustle of the modern world. With its gentle, flowing melody and Orbison’s tender vocal delivery, “Blue Bayou” transports listeners to a tranquil place where worries melt away. The song’s nostalgic lyrics and soothing arrangement struck a chord with audiences, making it a hit upon its release. Over the years, “Blue Bayou” has been covered by numerous artists, most notably Linda Ronstadt, whose 1977 version became a massive hit. Nonetheless, Orbison’s original remains the definitive rendition, capturing the essence of yearning and the beauty of simplicity.
7. “It’s Over” (1964)
Released in 1964, “It’s Over” is a powerful ballad that showcases Roy Orbison’s ability to convey the finality and despair of a relationship coming to an end. The song’s dramatic arrangement, featuring a sweeping orchestral backing, perfectly complements Orbison’s emotionally charged vocals. The lyrics, co-written by Orbison and Bill Dees, explore the pain of realizing that a once-beautiful love has faded beyond repair. As the song builds to its heart-wrenching climax, Orbison’s voice reaches new heights of intensity, leaving listeners with a profound sense of loss. “It’s Over” was a commercial success, topping the charts in the UK and becoming one of Orbison’s most memorable songs. Its timeless appeal lies in its raw emotional power and Orbison’s unmatched vocal performance.
8. “You Got It” (1989)
“You Got It,” released in 1989, marked Roy Orbison’s triumphant return to the charts after a decade-long hiatus. The song was co-written with Jeff Lynne and Tom Petty, both of whom were part of the supergroup Traveling Wilburys, alongside Orbison. “You Got It” blends Orbison’s classic sound with a modern pop-rock sensibility, creating a track that feels both timeless and contemporary. The song’s upbeat melody and positive lyrics celebrate the joy of a love that feels just right, with Orbison delivering a performance full of warmth and sincerity. “You Got It” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in multiple countries and introducing Orbison’s music to a new generation of listeners. It stands as a testament to his enduring talent and his ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes while staying true to his roots.
9. “Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream)” (1962)
Released in 1962, “Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream)” is a lively, upbeat track that showcases Roy Orbison’s versatility as a performer. Unlike many of his more melancholic ballads, “Dream Baby” has a driving rhythm and an infectious energy that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. The song’s catchy melody and Orbison’s smooth, confident vocals made it an instant hit, reaching the top 10 in several countries. Written by Cindy Walker, the track is a perfect example of Orbison’s ability to take a straightforward pop song and elevate it with his distinctive voice and emotive delivery. “Dream Baby” remains a fan favorite, a reminder of the lighter, more playful side of Orbison’s musical repertoire.
10. “Love Hurts” (1961)
“Love Hurts,” first released by Roy Orbison in 1961, is a poignant ballad that captures the universal pain of heartache. Although the song was later made famous by other artists, Orbison’s original version remains one of the most emotionally powerful renditions. With its simple yet profound lyrics and Orbison’s soulful delivery, “Love Hurts” speaks to the vulnerability and sorrow that comes with loving someone deeply. The song’s melancholy melody and Orbison’s heartfelt performance create a bittersweet atmosphere that resonates with anyone who has experienced the sting of lost love. While it wasn’t one of Orbison’s biggest hits at the time, “Love Hurts” has since become a classic, covered by numerous artists and appreciated for its raw emotional honesty.
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.
