About the Song
Roy Orbison‘s “Only the Lonely” is a song that stands as a testament to his extraordinary vocal range and emotional depth. Released on May 9, 1960, this timeless classic is one of Orbison’s most enduring hits and a cornerstone of his illustrious career. The song was a standout track from his album “Lonely and Blue”, which solidified his reputation as a master of heartfelt ballads.
“Only the Lonely” was co-written by Orbison and Joe Melson, and it became a breakthrough hit for Orbison, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and number one on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s success was a pivotal moment for Orbison, as it marked his transition from a songwriter and lesser-known artist to a global superstar. The haunting quality of the song’s melody, combined with Orbison’s distinctive, operatic voice, creates an atmosphere of profound melancholy and yearning.
The meaning of “Only the Lonely” is deeply rooted in the universal experience of loneliness and heartbreak. Orbison’s delivery is imbued with a sense of genuine sorrow, reflecting the pain of unrequited love and the isolation that often accompanies it. The lyrics, with lines like “Only the lonely know the way I feel tonight” and “Only the lonely know this feeling ain’t right,” resonate with anyone who has experienced the aching void left by lost or unattainable love.
Socially and culturally, “Only the Lonely” had a significant impact. In the early 1960s, the music scene was dominated by upbeat rock and roll tunes, and Orbison’s heartfelt ballad stood out for its raw emotional honesty. The song paved the way for other artists to explore more complex emotional themes in their music. Orbison’s ability to convey deep emotional pain while maintaining a sense of vulnerability and strength helped to humanize the pop and rock genres, setting a precedent for future generations of musicians.
Orbison’s influence extended beyond the music charts; he became an icon of style and emotion. His trademark dark sunglasses and plaintive voice became synonymous with the deep, reflective nature of his music. “Only the Lonely”remains one of his most covered songs, with numerous artists across various genres paying homage to its enduring appeal.
In terms of musical composition, “Only the Lonely” is notable for its sophisticated structure. The song begins with a slow, almost mournful introduction, building gradually to a powerful crescendo. Orbison’s use of dramatic pauses and changes in tempo adds to the song’s emotional impact. The orchestration, featuring lush strings and a prominent drumbeat, complements Orbison’s vocals perfectly, creating a rich, layered sound that was innovative for its time.
In conclusion, “Only the Lonely” by Roy Orbison is more than just a song; it’s a deeply moving piece of music that captures the essence of human vulnerability and longing. Its release marked a significant milestone in Orbison’s career and in the music industry as a whole. The song’s emotional depth, combined with Orbison’s unparalleled vocal talent, ensures its place in the annals of music history. For listeners, both old and new, “Only the Lonely” offers a poignant reminder of the universal nature of heartache and the enduring power of music to express the deepest of human emotions.
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Lyric
Only the lonelyOnly the lonelyOnly the lonelyKnow the way I feel tonightOnly the lonelyKnow this feeling ain’t rightThere goes my babyThere goes my heartThey’re gone foreverSo far apartBut only the lonelyKnow whyI cryOnly the lonelyOnly the lonelyOnly the lonelyOnly the lonelyKnow the heartaches I’ve been throughOnly the lonelyKnow I cry and cry for youMaybe tomorrowA new romanceNo more sorrowBut that’s the chanceYou gotta takeIf your lonely heart breaksOnly the lonely