The Legendary Roy Orbison cover

The Legendary Roy Orbison

Roy Orbison · 1988

52 min · 20 tracks · country music

A collection of heartfelt ballads and timeless rock classics, showcasing Orbison's haunting voice and emotional depth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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    Oh Pretty Woman Start here — This track is arguably Orbison's signature song, blending catchy melodies with a narrative about longing and desire. Its upbeat tempo contrasts with the emotional weight of the lyrics.
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    Only the Lonely — This song exemplifies Orbison's ability to convey deep sorrow through his powerful vocals and orchestral arrangement, making it a staple of his catalog.
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    Crying — With its dramatic delivery and poignant storytelling, this track highlights Orbison’s mastery of emotional expression and is often regarded as one of his finest performances.
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    Blue Bayou — Orbison's rendition transforms this classic into a haunting exploration of nostalgia and loss, showcasing his unique interpretative style.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • nostalgic sing-alongs with friends
  • steady emotional rollercoaster ride
  • heartfelt ballads for reflection
  • late-night driving comfort soundtrack
  • quick hits of longing

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of upbeat tempos
  • prefer lengthy instrumental explorations

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Starting Point — A comprehensive compilation that introduces new listeners to Orbison's iconic hits.
Themes
1960s rock nostalgia· heartfelt ballads· emotional longing
Career context
Released in 1988, The Legendary Roy Orbison captures a retrospective of Orbison’s prolific career, which began in the early 1960s. This compilation arrives shortly after his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, marking a renewed appreciation for his influence in rock and pop music.
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Tracklist

  • 1 Oh Pretty Woman Start here 2:58
  • 2 Only the Lonely 2:26
  • 3 Love Hurts 2:28
  • 4 Lana 2:20
  • 5 My Prayer 2:43
  • 6 Goodnight 2:30
  • 7 Falling 2:23
  • 8 Blue Angel 2:52
  • 9 All I Have to Do Is Dream 2:25
  • 10 In Dreams 2:55
  • 11 Crying 2:47
  • 12 Blue Bayou 2:30
  • 13 Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream) 2:33
  • 14 The Great Pretender 3:03
  • 15 Running Scared 2:13
  • 16 Borne on the Wind 2:56
  • 17 Mean Woman Blues 2:26
  • 18 Pretty Paper 2:47
  • 19 The Crowd 2:23
  • 20 It’s Over 2:48

What to play next

Mystery Girl
Listen next

Mystery Girl

1989

Continues the emotional depth with a fresh sound, showcasing Orbison's later style.
In Dreams: The Greatest Hits
Go back to

In Dreams: The Greatest Hits

1987

Leads into the current album with similar heartfelt ballads and classic hits.
Full Roy Orbison discography Where to start with Roy Orbison Artists like Roy Orbison
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If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

At Folsom Prison

At Folsom Prison

Johnny Cash

Shares emotional depth and storytelling with a focus on longing and regret.

Bridge over Troubled Water

Bridge over Troubled Water

Simon & Garfunkel

Captures similar themes of nostalgia and heartfelt balladry through rich harmonies.

By the Time I Get to Phoenix

By the Time I Get to Phoenix

Glen Campbell

Features poignant lyrics and a blend of rock and country that echoes Orbison's emotional resonance.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata