Few voices in the history of music have ever possessed the haunting, operatic beauty of Roy Orbison’s. With his trademark dark sunglasses, enigmatic stage presence, and heart-wrenching ballads, Orbison carved out a unique place in rock and roll history. His songs, often filled with themes of love, longing, and heartbreak, have transcended generations, earning him legions of fans across the globe. Whether you’re experiencing his music for the first time or revisiting his timeless hits, Orbison’s voice has a way of stirring deep emotions and lingering in your soul long after the music fades.
In this article, we take a journey through the top 10 most popular Roy Orbison songs of all time. From the iconic “Oh, Pretty Woman” to the ethereal “Crying,” each track showcases the immense talent and emotional depth that made Orbison a legend. These are more than just songs—they are soundtracks to love stories, personal struggles, and moments of introspection. So, buckle up and get ready to dive into the world of Roy Orbison, where every note carries the weight of a lifetime, and every lyric tells a story you won’t soon forget.
1. Oh, Pretty Woman (1964)
Released in 1964, “Oh, Pretty Woman” is undoubtedly Roy Orbison’s signature hit. With its infectious guitar riff and Orbison’s smooth vocals, the song quickly soared to number one on the charts worldwide. The track tells the story of a man mesmerized by a beautiful woman walking down the street, hoping for a chance encounter. Packed with a rock and roll energy that was ahead of its time, the song became an instant classic. Its universal appeal and unforgettable hook have kept it relevant across generations, making it one of the most recognizable songs in music history. Fun fact: this song’s massive success inspired the title of the 1990 hit movie Pretty Woman, cementing its status in pop culture.
2. Crying (1961)
“Crying” is one of Orbison’s most emotionally charged ballads, released in 1961. The song explores the depths of heartbreak and unrequited love, with Orbison’s voice soaring effortlessly across an impressive vocal range. The song’s crescendo builds to a heart-wrenching climax, leaving listeners in awe of Orbison’s ability to convey raw emotion. Its vulnerability and sincerity struck a chord with audiences, earning it a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame. The timelessness of “Crying” speaks to the universal experience of love lost, making it a defining moment in Orbison’s career.
3. Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel) (1960)
Released in 1960, “Only the Lonely” marked the beginning of Roy Orbison’s rise to stardom. The song blends orchestral arrangements with Orbison’s aching, operatic voice, creating a sound that was truly revolutionary for its time. The lyrics tap into feelings of isolation and heartbreak, themes that would become trademarks of Orbison’s music. As the song climbed the charts, it solidified Orbison’s place in rock and roll history. “Only the Lonely” remains a fan favorite, and its influence can be heard in countless ballads that followed.
4. In Dreams (1963)
“In Dreams,” released in 1963, is a surreal and haunting ballad that showcases Orbison’s storytelling abilities. The song paints a vivid picture of a dream where the singer reunites with a lost love, only to wake up and realize it was all an illusion. Orbison’s voice is ethereal, carrying listeners through the dreamlike narrative with a sense of longing and melancholy. The song’s unique structure, which doesn’t follow the typical verse-chorus format, sets it apart as one of Orbison’s most creative works. Its haunting beauty made it a standout, even being prominently featured in David Lynch’s cult classic film Blue Velvet.
5. You Got It (1989)
“You Got It” was released in 1989, just months after Roy Orbison’s untimely death. Co-written with Jeff Lynne and Tom Petty, the song became a posthumous hit, reaching the top of the charts. With its upbeat, optimistic lyrics and catchy melody, “You Got It” brought Orbison’s career full circle, reminding fans of his unmatched vocal prowess. The song is a testament to Orbison’s enduring ability to craft timeless pop melodies, even decades into his career. It’s a joyful celebration of love and devotion, and its success helped introduce a new generation to Orbison’s music.
6. Blue Bayou (1963)
“Blue Bayou,” released in 1963, is a wistful ballad about longing for simpler times and a lost paradise. Orbison’s lilting voice, paired with lush instrumentation, transports listeners to a tranquil, nostalgic world. The song’s evocative lyrics about returning to a peaceful bayou struck a chord with audiences, and it became one of Orbison’s most beloved tracks. Though covered by many artists over the years, Orbison’s original version remains the definitive interpretation, filled with a yearning and sincerity that only he could deliver.
7. Running Scared (1961)
Released in 1961, “Running Scared” is a dramatic, tension-filled ballad that showcases Orbison’s ability to build suspense through music. The song’s narrative follows a man nervously awaiting the return of his lover’s former flame, unsure of whether she will stay with him. The song’s orchestration gradually builds to a powerful climax, where Orbison’s voice explodes in a triumphant, emotional finale. “Running Scared” reached number one on the U.S. charts and remains one of Orbison’s most thrilling and cinematic performances.
8. Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream) (1962)
“Dream Baby” is a lively, upbeat track released in 1962 that showcases a different side of Roy Orbison. With a bright, infectious melody and a catchy chorus, the song became a hit, climbing high on the charts. Unlike the ballads that Orbison is often known for, “Dream Baby” has a more playful and energetic feel, revealing the versatility of his musical talents. The song’s catchy rhythm and lighthearted lyrics make it a feel-good anthem that stands out in Orbison’s discography.
9. It’s Over (1964)
“It’s Over,” released in 1964, is a powerful ballad that captures the end of a romantic relationship. Orbison’s voice is at its most expressive here, conveying the pain and finality of a love that has run its course. The song’s sweeping orchestration and dramatic build-up create an atmosphere of heartbreak, making it one of Orbison’s most emotionally charged performances. “It’s Over” was a major hit, reaching number one in the UK, and remains one of the most poignant breakup songs ever recorded.
10. Claudette (1958)
“Claudette” was written by Roy Orbison and released in 1958, originally performed by The Everly Brothers. The song, a rockabilly ode to Orbison’s then-wife Claudette, is a lively and upbeat track filled with youthful energy. Though it may not carry the emotional weight of some of his later ballads, “Claudette” is a testament to Orbison’s songwriting prowess. Its catchy melody and playful lyrics helped launch his songwriting career and set the stage for the legendary hits that would follow.
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.
