Roy Orbison, often referred to as the “Caruso of Rock,” was one of the most influential and innovative singers and songwriters of the 20th century. His distinctive voice and emotive performances captivated audiences across the globe and his music continues to inspire and move listeners to this day. With his soaring vocals and heartfelt lyrics, Orbison became a true legend of rock and roll, leaving behind an indelible mark on the music industry.
Over the course of his career, Orbison released a plethora of timeless classics, showcasing his immense talent as both a songwriter and performer. From haunting ballads to upbeat rockers, his songs remain as relevant and beloved as ever. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best Roy Orbison songs of all time, highlighting the impact and influence that he had on the music world.
Through analyzing his most iconic tracks, we will delve into the stories and emotions that inspired Orbison’s music, showcasing his unique ability to connect with listeners on a profound level. Whether you are a long-time fan or a newcomer to his music, this list of Roy Orbison’s top 10 best songs is sure to delight and inspire.
1. Blue Bayou
For a comprehensive look at the song, here is a table providing key details for '1. Blue Bayou':
| Year Released | 1961 |
| Album | In Dreams |
| Songwriter(s) | Joe Melson and Roy Orbison |
| Lyrics Sample |
Left my home in Norfolk Virginia |
A noteworthy fact about this track is that its lyrics were inspired by Orbison's nostalgia for his childhood home in Texas.
One stunning anecdote is that while performing 'Blue Bayou' live in Denver, Colorado, he received a standing ovation from the crowd for nearly five minutes straight. This further solidified the song's impact on fans and fame throughout time.
If you're struggling to fall asleep, just listen to Roy Orbison's 'Dream Baby' and you'll be counting Z's in no time.
2. Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream)
This melodic ballad is one of Orbison's most captivating and soulful pieces. With timeless lyrics and a tender ambiance, 'Dream Baby' has become an all-time fan favorite. Its ethereal quality coupled with the singer's unique tenor creates an immersive listening experience. The song reached number four in the charts upon its release in 1962, solidifying Roy Orbison's place as a musical icon.
Orbison's distinct, velvety voice complements the delicate yet intoxicating instrumentals of 'Dream Baby.' The song delicately encompasses various themes that connect to love, such as uncertainty and passion. The song also showcases Orbison's versatility as a musician since he transitioned from his usual rockabilly style to a softer one for this piece.
'Dream Baby' was covered by many famous musicians such as Neil Young and Iain Matthews. While no one can replicate the original version, the song remains relevant and enjoyed by all.
'Dream Baby' holds sentimental value among many listeners who associate it with happy memories or important milestones. One fan recounts how hearing it live during one of Roy Orbison's concerts became etched in their memory forever. 'Dream Baby' is an evergreen reminder of how music touches our lives in unique ways and leaves long-lasting impressions.
"She's a musical enigma, like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube with your ears."
3. She’s A Mystery To Me
This Orbison classic, 'She's A Mystery To Me', is a haunting ballad from the album "Mystery Girl". The song was written by Bono and The Edge of U2 and has been covered by numerous artists. Its gentle melody and poignant lyrics explore the enigmatic nature of love and companionship. Orbison's mournful vocals perfectly capture the yearning for an unattainable mystery woman, making this one of his most iconic songs.
Get your Ooby Dooby dancing shoes on, because this rockabilly hit will have you jiving like it's 1956 all over again.
4. Ooby Dooby
This classic Roy Orbison hit, known as '4. Ooby Dooby', is a rockabilly gem that showcases his early talent. The upbeat and catchy rhythm combined with Orbison's unique voice makes it a must-listen for fans old and new alike. Its lively beat and fun-filled energy will make you want to dance along!
With its infectious chorus and guitar riffs, 'Ooby Dooby' was a big success for Orbison in 1956, peaking at number 59 on the US Billboard charts. Its impact can still be felt today, influencing generations of musicians who have followed in Orbison's footsteps. It is no surprise that this song has stood the test of time and continues to be a fan favourite.
One interesting fact about 'Ooby Dooby' is that it was originally recorded by Sun Records artist Wade Moore before Orbison got his hands on it. However, it was Orbison's unique vocal style that really brought the song to life, earning him his first big hit.
Don't miss out on listening to this classic hit from one of music's greatest legends! Add 'Ooby Dooby' to your playlist today and discover why Roy Orbison remains an icon of rock and roll.
Orbison fans rejoice, 'You Got It' is not only a classic love song but also a reminder that even those with receding hairlines can still rock a killer mullet.
5. You Got It
Backing up the list of top Roy Orbison songs is "You Got It," a track that showcases his effortless ability to create memorable hooks and melodies that stick with listeners long after the song is over. The opening guitar riff sets the tone for a nostalgic tribute to love, which Orbison delivers with trademark passion and intensity. He captures the essence of romance in every line, making it impossible not to sing along with him as he croons about how good it feels to be loved by someone special. This classic song captures all that makes Orbison such an iconic figure in music history – his unmistakable voice, his ability to craft a timeless melody, and his heartfelt lyrics that resonate deeply with fans across generations.
As one listens to "You Got It," they cannot help but admire the effortless way in which Orbison combines upbeat rhythms with his signature heart-wrenching ballad style. The combination results in a unique sound that became synonymous with Roy Orbison's music – soulful yet catchy, romantic yet free-spirited. His powerful vocal delivery commands attention from start to finish, while the instrumentation serves as a perfect backdrop for his rich vocals.
This classic track marked a comeback for Orbison in 1989 after several years out of the limelight and cemented his status as one of rock's greats. Still popular decades later, "You Got It" remains one of the most recognizable Roy Orbison tunes, evoking memories of simpler times and capturing the essence of first love.
Pro Tip: For aspiring musicians or anyone wanting to improve their songwriting skills, studying classic tracks like "You Got It" can be an invaluable experience. By analyzing what works well in established hits/melodies written by talented artists like Roy Orbison, you can gain insights into what elements contribute to creating enduring compositions.
Listening to 'In Dreams' is like being transported to a world where heartbreak is beautiful and Roy Orbison is king.
6. In Dreams
The sixth track on the list of the 10 Best Roy Orbison Songs of All Time is a true masterpiece: Orbison's hauntingly beautiful ballad about longing, loss, and the power of dreams, entitled "In Dreams." This song showcases Orbison's unparalleled vocal range and emotional depth as he sings about a dream world in which his lost love still exists. The song's iconic opening melody and cinematic chorus have made it a timeless classic in popular music history.
"In Dreams" was written by Orbison himself and released in 1963 as a single. It later appeared on his album bearing the same name. The song's powerful lyrics tell a story of unrequited love and heartache that has resonated with listeners for decades. The way Orbison masterfully conveys deep emotions through his voice has added to its allure and enigmatic qualities.
One interesting fact about "In Dreams" is that it served as inspiration for David Lynch's film Blue Velvet (1986). After hearing the song, Lynch was moved to create an eerie dream-like sequence featuring Dennis Hopper lip-syncing to "In Dreams." This scene has become one of cinema's most memorable moments, immortalizing both the song and its singer.
Don't miss out on experiencing this classic piece of music history. Take some time to listen to "In Dreams" and immerse yourself in Roy Orbison's unique sound and deeply felt emotions.
If Running Scared was a person, they'd be in therapy for their commitment issues.
7. Running Scared
Running Scared is one of the legendary Roy Orbison songs that has stood the test of time. It remains a popular and unique piece from the artist's discography.
- Running Scared was written by Roy Orbison and Joe Melson.
- The song was released in 1961 under Monument Records and garnered wide success.
- It topped several music charts, including Billboard Hot 100, UK Singles Chart, and many more.
- Running Scared also won the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance in 1963.
- The song talks about a man who is afraid to lose his lover, excellently narrated with Orbison's distinctive vocal style.
- With its perfect blend of melancholic disposition and fast-paced melody, Running Scared remains an iconic track that has influenced countless musicians over the years.
Apart from its musical brilliance, Running Scared has a unique energy that sets it apart from other love songs. In essence, it showcases Roy Orbison at his best – a rare talent who could move audiences with his powerful voice and emotive lyrics.
According to Rolling Stone magazine, Running Scared ranks 119th on "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time" list. This accolade proves how much impact the song has had on listeners worldwide.
Roaming the streets with tears in your eyes? Don't worry, Roy Orbison's 'Crying' will keep you company.
8. Crying
Exploring one of Roy Orbison's most iconic songs, this section sheds light on the story and style behind "Crying". With its soaring vocals and dramatic instrumentation, this ballad showcases Orbison's signature blend of pop and rockabilly. The song tells of a heartbroken man who can't help but cry in his lover's absence. Its emotional resonance has made it a classic love song, covered by countless artists since its release in 1961.
If you're feeling lonely, just put on 'Only the Lonely' and let Roy Orbison serenade you into a deeper pit of despair.
9. Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel)
This classic Roy Orbison hit, known as "Only the Lonely", showcases the melancholic pangs of lost love. The song's enchanting melody and emotionally powerful lyrics have made it an all-time favourite among fans and critics alike. Orbison's soaring vocals put forth his heart-wrenching emotions, as he pleads for his lost lover to return. The dream-like instrumentation is a perfect fit for this heartbreaking tale of loneliness.
As one of the most recognised tracks in materialising unreturned love, "Only the Lonely" dominates in its premise to tug at every listener’s heartstrings. It is considered one of Roy Orbison's greatest ballads and has secured a place as one of rock n roll's most iconic songs. “Only the Lonely” rightfully deserves to be counted as one among Orbison's best compositions, both in terms of musicality and lyricism.
The song stands out with its lush production value that shows keen attention to intricate details that accompanied vocals enabling it to evoke a sense of helplessness in listeners' minds. Its hauntingly beautiful melody seamlessly merges with its poignant lyrics – creating a powerful narrative on its own; making both elements resonate even more amazingly together.
If you are looking for a song for those lonely nights or merely want some soul-pleasing music, give "Only The Lonely" by Roy Orbison a listen for it would not disappoint in feeding your sentiments. Its enduring legacy proves how true this is— using music therapy and indulging ourselves with resonating music pieces could bring us peace of mind reassuring how heartfelt singing brings wonder to people’s emotions when words are not enough!
Orbison's iconic song about a man falling for a prostitute – finally a love story with a realistic ending.
10. Oh, Pretty Woman
Roy Orbison's 'Oh, Pretty Woman' is a timeless classic that remains a crowd-pleaser to this date. With its infectious beat and memorable lyrics, the song topped charts worldwide and established Roy Orbison as a legend in the music industry. The song showcases Orbison's unique talent for combining rock and roll with soulful ballads that tug at your heartstrings.
In 'Oh, Pretty Woman', Orbison croons about his admiration for a beautiful woman who catches his eye. The catchy chorus builds up the anticipation before dropping into an exuberant crescendo that makes you want to dance. The guitar riff is one of the most recognizable and iconic in the history of rock music.
What sets 'Oh, Pretty Woman' apart from other songs is its innovative structure and arrangement. Each section seamlessly flows into another, creating a cohesive whole. Moreover, the clever use of call-and-response vocals adds to the song's joyful energy.
If you want to enjoy 'Oh, Pretty Woman' to its fullest potential, try listening to it while driving on a sunny day with the windows rolled down. Another suggestion would be to play it during a party or gathering – guaranteed to get everyone on their feet.
Samuel Moore 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.
