Roy Orbison, with his distinctive and mesmerizing voice, remains an icon of the rock and roll era, capturing hearts and souls with his emotional ballads and timeless melodies. As one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, Orbison left an indelible mark on the music industry and continues to inspire artists to this day. From his early breakthrough hits to his later career triumphs, Orbison’s catalog is a treasure trove of musical gems. In this article, we delve into the realm of nostalgia, exploring the top 10 best Roy Orbison songs of all time.
Orbison’s career spanned several decades, from the 1950s to the 1980s, and his songs possessed a unique blend of vulnerability, power, and soulfulness. With his haunting falsetto and unparalleled vocal range, he crafted songs that explored themes of love, loss, and longing. Each composition was a journey, taking listeners on an emotional rollercoaster that resonated deep within their hearts.
In this carefully curated list, we showcase Orbison’s greatest musical achievements, encompassing chart-topping hits, hidden gems, and enduring classics. From his early rockabilly tunes to the poignant ballads that defined his later years, each song on this list showcases Orbison’s incomparable talent as a songwriter and performer.
Prepare to be transported back in time as we celebrate the remarkable legacy of Roy Orbison and the unforgettable melodies that have stood the test of time. Join us as we explore the magic behind each song and the impact they have had on generations of music lovers, cementing Roy Orbison’s rightful place among the all-time greats.
1. Blue Bayou
With his unique voice and compelling lyrics, Roy Orbison has captured the hearts of music lovers around the globe. "Blue Bayou" is one of his most popular songs, with its haunting melody and soulful delivery taking listeners on a journey through love and loss. The song was released in 1963 as a B-side to "Mean Woman Blues," but soon became a hit in its own right, reaching #29 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Orbison's vocals on "Blue Bayou" are nothing short of mesmerizing, soaring above the delicate instrumentation and conveying a sense of longing that is instantly relatable. The lyrics tell the story of someone who is far from home and missing their loved ones, painting a vivid picture of nostalgia and heartache.
What sets "Blue Bayou" apart from other ballads of its time is Orbison's deft ability to blend country and rock elements seamlessly. The result is a timeless classic that remains just as impactful today as it did more than half a century ago.
Fun fact: Linda Ronstadt also had a hit with her cover version of "Blue Bayou" in 1977, which reached #3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.
While Pretty Paper may be a festive favourite, nothing screams holiday spirit like a song about lost love and heartbreak.
2. Pretty Paper
A beloved holiday classic by Roy Orbison, the song about "fancy paper for pretty packages" is a soulful tune with gentle strings and sentimental lyrics. The singer laments his inability to provide gifts for his loved ones due to financial constraints, yet remains hopeful for brighter days.
The track was included in his posthumous album of the same name and continues to encapsulate the essence of the festive season across generations.
The song showcases Orbison's rich baritone voice as he sings about the magic and joy of Christmas, making it a must-listen during the holiday season. Its simplicity and heartwarming lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding listeners of the true spirit of giving.
Interestingly, the original version of "Pretty Paper" was actually written and performed by Willie Nelson in 1963 before becoming a hit when covered by Roy Orbison two years later.
Pro Tip: Try playing this song during decorating or wrapping presents to add an extra dose of cheer to your holiday festivities. Don't listen to "Crying" if you're single, you'll end up sobbing for hours and confusing your cat.
3. Crying
With its haunting melody and Orbison's signature vocal prowess, the track at number three on our list recounts a heart-wrenching tale of lost love. Orbison's emotive performance perfectly captures the raw pain of missing someone so deeply that it physically hurts. The arrangement paired with his unique voice makes 'Crying' a classic ode to heartbreak.
The song's iconic opening riff sets the tone for a somber but powerful journey through painful memories and unrequited affection. While 'Crying' may not be an uplifting tune, it certainly stands out as one of the most effective expressions of mourning ever put to music. Inclusions like this have made Roy Orbison's catalog an essential listen for music fans across generations.
Interestingly, despite its lasting impact, 'Crying' wasn't an immediate success upon release. In fact, early reviews were tepid at best. But eventually, the song found its way into the hearts of audiences who felt its message deep in their souls – proving that sometimes even the most heartbreaking melodies can win over listeners in time.
Listening to 'You Got It' makes me wonder if Roy Orbison ever had a bad hair day.
4. You Got It
This iconic Roy Orbison hit, known as 'You Got It', showcases his signature operatic style and soaring vocals. The track perfectly blends classic rock and pop elements with upbeat melodies and thoughtful lyrics. Critics praise it for its emotional depth and enduring appeal. Its catchy chorus, backed by orchestral arrangements, has made it one of Orbison's most recognizable hits to this day.
Roy Orbison's 'In Dreams' is the perfect song for those who love sweet dreams, bitter heartbreak, and amazing vocals.
5. In Dreams
This Orbison classic, "In Dreams", is a timeless masterpiece that showcases the talented singer's unique voice and writing skills. In this song, he transports listeners to a dream-like state with poignant lyrics and haunting melodies. The song was released in 1963 and became one of his signature pieces, earning critical acclaim for its compelling emotional content and impeccable arrangement.
The song's beautiful lyrics speak of a dream world where happy endings are always possible despite the setbacks in real life. This theme struck a chord with audiences worldwide, making it one of the most enduring love songs ever written by Orbison.
Notably, the song was also featured in David Lynch's film Blue Velvet in 1986, cementing its position as an iconic piece of music.
Orbison's "In Dreams" remains an essential piece of his body of work and serves as a testament to his incredible musicianship.
Running Scared may be about fear and desperation, but listening to Roy Orbison's soaring vocals will give you chills for all the right reasons.
6. Running Scared
With haunting melodies and powerful vocals, Running Scared is one of the standout tracks from Roy Orbison's discography. This song expresses the fear of facing one's emotions and the pain that comes with it. The slow buildup of instruments in this track leads to a powerful climax that perfectly encapsulates this fear.
Orbison's signature operatic voice, combined with the sweeping orchestration, makes for an emotional listening experience that still resonates decades later. The lyrics themselves also carry significant weight, showcasing Orbison's ability to write deeply personal songs that connect with listeners on an intimate level.
What sets Running Scared apart from other ballads in Orbison's repertoire is its instrumental complexity and dynamic range. Despite being primarily classified as a pop ballad, Running Scared features a unique blend of strings, guitar, and percussion that creates a rich texture all its own.
Fun Fact: Running Scared was originally recorded by Elvis Presley under his pseudonym "Tommy Durden," but his version was never released.
If you're still dreaming about your ex, you might as well make it a Roy Orbison soundtrack with 'Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream)'.
7. Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream)
Orbison's timeless classic, 'Dream Baby', is a soulful ballad that showcases his unique vocal range and songwriting prowess. The song's upbeat tempo contrasts with the haunting melody, creating a sense of yearning in the listener. With lyrics that are both romantic and melancholic, Orbison once again demonstrates his ability to evoke raw emotions through music. 'Dream Baby' remains an enduring favorite among fans and critics alike.
The track features string sections that lend a symphonic quality to Orbison's already impressive vocals. The singer's signature falsetto is on full display during the chorus, contributing to the song's overall richness. With its infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics, 'Dream Baby' is an iconic example of Orbison at his best.
While many of Orbison's songs are known for their powerful emotional impact, 'Dream Baby' stands out for its relatable themes of longing and desire. Its universal appeal has ensured its place as one of the artist's most beloved classics, resonating with listeners across generations.
Don't miss out on the chance to experience this unforgettable piece of musical history – give 'Dream Baby' a listen today and see why it continues to captivate audiences around the world.
Roy Orbison proves that diamonds are not a girl's best friend, but a pretty woman definitely is.
8. Oh, Pretty Woman
This chart-topper reached unparalleled levels of success- the iconic 'guitar riff' which opens up the song showcases its brilliance. Known as a perfect showcase of Roy Orbison's vocal range, 'Oh, Pretty Woman' is a polished and grandiose representation of his style. With lively drumbeats and a ‘woo-hoo’ chorus, the song brilliantly captures Orbison's impeccable artistry while remaining invigorating throughout.
Orbison co-wrote this hit during a session with Bill Dees and producer Fred Foster. The idea came from Orbison's wife describing how some women react to him when he walks into a room. At first, they wrote it as 'Oh, Pretty Peggy Sue,' but then changed it to bring more attention to the word 'woman.' Later on, this track became featured in multiple movies and kept its position as Orbison’s best worldwide-selling single.
Don't worry, Roy, we all know the way you feel after listening to this heart-wrenching classic.
9. Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel)
This timeless hit, expressing the lonesome feelings of a heartbroken lover, is one of Roy Orbison's most popular tracks. Its haunting melody and soulful vocals make it unforgettable, while its relatable lyrics ensure that it resonates with listeners across generations. The song's success propelled Orbison to greater heights, paving the way for his continued legacy as a legend in the music industry.
Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel) is a perfect example of Orbison's ability to create emotional ballads that tug at the heartstrings. The song's melancholic atmosphere is heightened by the sweeping orchestration and Orbison's trademark operatic vocal style. Perhaps what makes Only the Lonely stand out among Orbison's other songs is its universal appeal – anyone who has experienced heartbreak or loneliness can relate to its poignant message.
Despite being released over six decades ago, Only the Lonely remains a beloved classic that sounds just as fresh today as it did back then. With its powerful chorus and timeless melody, this track has undoubtedly earned its spot among Roy Orbison's greatest hits.
For those who haven't yet listened to this masterpiece, do not miss out on feeling the raw emotions and captivating lyrics of Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel). It is an essential addition to any music lover's playlist.
Roy Orbison knew how to break hearts with his music, and 'It's Over' is the ultimate heartbreak anthem.
10. It’s Over
This classic ballad, filled with emotion, is a masterpiece from Orbison's heyday. 'It’s Over' marks the painful end of a love affair with mature lyrics that cut deep. The song has an undeniable pop sensibility while managing to maintain its somber tone throughout. With haunting compositions and soaring vocals, it's no wonder this song remains a fan favorite.
Moving beyond just a simple break-up song, 'It’s Over' showcases Roy Orbison's ability to evoke passion and heartbreak in every note. From its opening riff to its final crescendo, the track leaves listeners with an unforgettable sense of loss. With its beautifully crafted orchestral arrangements and powerful vocal performance, it truly stands out as one of Orbison's finest works.
As one of his most beloved songs, 'It’s Over' has been covered by numerous artists over the years and was even ranked number nine on Rolling Stone's list of 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. Its lasting impact on popular culture is a testament to the depth and universality of Roy Orbison's music.
Pro Tip: To fully appreciate the depth and complexity of Orbison's work, listen to 'It’s Over' in its original mono format for maximum impact.
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.
