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Artist Spotlight

Roy Orbison

rock music · 1960–1964

Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel) by Roy Orbison — cover art

With a voice that could pierce the veil of night, Roy Orbison crafted haunting melodies that linger like a sweet echo. This American singer and songwriter, whose music spans rock, country, and rockabilly, captivated audiences with his emotional ballads and intricate song structures. Dressed in black, with his trademark dark sunglasses, Orbison's performances were a study in contrasts; while most male artists of his time projected bravado, he laid bare his vulnerabilities in songs like "Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel)" and "Crying." Tracks such as "Oh, Pretty Woman" and "In Dreams" showcased his ability to weave heartache and longing into unforgettable tunes. Orbison's artistry transcends time, leaving us with a catalog that continues to resonate with anyone who's ever loved and lost, reminding us all that sometimes it’s okay to wear our hearts on our sleeves.

The facts

  • United States
  • rock music, country music, rockabilly
  • On Sun Records, Asylum Records, MGM Records

Roy Orbison in the crate

Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel) by Roy Orbison — cover art
Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel)
Roy Orbison
1960
Crying by Roy Orbison — cover art
Crying
Roy Orbison
1961
Running Scared by Roy Orbison — cover art
Running Scared
Roy Orbison
1961
Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream) by Roy Orbison — cover art
Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream)
Roy Orbison
1962
In Dreams by Roy Orbison — cover art
In Dreams
Roy Orbison
1963
Mean Woman Blues by Roy Orbison — cover art
Mean Woman Blues
Roy Orbison
1963
It's Over by Roy Orbison — cover art
It's Over
Roy Orbison
1964
Oh, Pretty Woman by Roy Orbison — cover art
Oh, Pretty Woman
Roy Orbison
1964

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