Who's behind the notes? Discover Roy Orbison: The Voice of Heartache in Rock 'n' Roll
Roy Orbison was a legendary American singer-songwriter known for his distinctive voice and emotional ballads. Here are some interesting facts about him:
Trademark Sunglasses: Orbison was often seen wearing dark sunglasses, which became his trademark. He began wearing them due to a case of chronic glaucoma, but they became an iconic part of his image.
Operatic Voice: His singing style was often described as operatic, and his vocal range was impressive. He could reach high notes with ease, contributing to the emotional intensity of his performances.
Hits Galore: Orbison had a string of hits in the early 1960s, including classics like "Only the Lonely," "Crying," "In Dreams," and "Oh, Pretty Woman." His songs often explored themes of heartbreak and unrequited love.
Traveling Wilburys: In the late 1980s, Orbison became a part of the supergroup Traveling Wilburys, alongside Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Tom Petty, and Jeff Lynne. They released two albums, and Orbison's contributions added to the group's success.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Roy Orbison was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. His induction was a testament to his influence on the rock and roll genre.
"Pretty Woman" Inspiration: Orbison's most famous song, "Oh, Pretty Woman," was inspired by Orbison's wife, Claudette. He once said that the idea for the song came to him when his wife interrupted him while he was shaving and he saw her in her bathrobe.
Tragic Personal Life: Orbison faced personal tragedies, including the death of his first wife, Claudette, in a motorcycle accident in 1966. Two of his sons also died in a house fire in 1968. These events deeply affected Orbison and influenced his music.
Return to Prominence: In the late 1980s, Orbison experienced a resurgence in popularity with the success of the Traveling Wilburys and the inclusion of his song "In Dreams" in David Lynch's film "Blue Velvet."
Legacy: Orbison's influence extends beyond his own performances. Many artists, including Bruce Springsteen, Chris Isaak, and k.d. lang, have cited him as an inspiration.
Posthumous Achievements: Orbison passed away in 1988, but his influence endures. In 1990, his album "Mystery Girl" was released posthumously, featuring the hit single "You Got It," and it received critical acclaim. Orbison's impact on the music world is celebrated to this day.