Roy Orbison was born on April 23rd, 1936

Written by: Jack Thompson

Roy Orbison: The Voice of Rock 'n' Roll

Roy Orbison, affectionately known as "The Big O," was an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist renowned for his powerful, wide-ranging voice and emotive ballads that conveyed vulnerability and intensity. With a career spanning over three decades, Orbison's music was a unique blend of rock, rockabilly, and country, earning him a loyal following and critical acclaim.

The Early Years and Rise to Fame

Born on April 23, 1936, in Vernon, Texas, Orbison began singing in a rockabilly and country-western band as a teenager. His big break came in 1956 when he was signed by Sam Phillips of Sun Records. Although his initial success was limited, Orbison's talent and perseverance eventually led him to Monument Records, where he achieved his greatest success.

Chart-Topping Hits and Musical Style

Between 1960 and 1966, an astonishing 22 of Orbison's singles reached the Billboard Top 40, including iconic hits like "Only the Lonely," "Running Scared," "Crying," "In Dreams," and "Oh, Pretty Woman." Orbison's songwriting skills were unparalleled, as he wrote or co-wrote almost all of his own Top 10 hits. His unique voice, marked by its soaring range and emotive delivery, set him apart from his contemporaries.

Personal Tragedies and Career Resurgence

During the mid-1960s, Orbison faced a series of personal tragedies, including the death of his wife and two sons in a house fire, and a motorcycle accident that left him severely injured. His career faltered, but he experienced a resurgence in popularity in the 1980s, thanks in part to the success of cover versions of his songs by other artists.

The Traveling Wilburys and Later Career

In 1988, Orbison co-founded the supergroup Traveling Wilburys with George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Jeff Lynne. This collaboration marked a creative high point in his career, but tragically, Orbison died of a heart attack on December 6, 1988, at the age of 52, just a month before the release of his hit single "You Got It."

Awards and Legacy

Orbison's honors and accolades include inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, Songwriters Hall of Fame, and Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum. He received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and five other Grammy Awards. Rolling Stone ranked him #37 on its list of the Greatest Artists of All Time and #13 on its list of the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time.

Fun Facts and Trivia

• Orbison was known for his distinctive fashion sense, often performing in black clothing, including a black suit, black sunglasses, and dyed black hair.
• He was one of the first rock artists to collaborate with classical musicians, working with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra on several projects.
• Orbison's music has been featured in numerous films, including "Blue Velvet," "Less Than Zero," and "In Dreams."

Roy Orbison's remarkable voice, songwriting prowess, and enduring legacy have solidified his place as one of the greatest artists in rock 'n' roll history.