Roy Orbison

Introduction

Few songs in the annals of music history possess the timeless, heart-wrenching quality of “Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel).” Sung by the legendary Roy Orbison, this iconic ballad has etched its name into the very soul of romantic music. With its haunting melody and poignant lyrics, the song transcends eras, reminding us of the universal ache of unrequited love.

Did You Know?

• Roy Orbison: Born on April 23, 1936, in Vernon, Texas, Roy Kelton Orbison was a renowned American singer-songwriter. Often referred to as the “Caruso of Rock” for his operatic and emotive voice, Orbison enjoyed a remarkable career spanning several decades. He was not only a singer but also a skilled guitarist, earning his place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His distinct style blended elements of rock, pop, and country, creating a genre of his own.
• “Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel)”: Released in 1960, this melancholic masterpiece was written by Roy Orbison and Joe Melson. The song’s lyrics delve into the profound loneliness experienced after a heartbreak, resonating with listeners around the world. Its soaring, operatic vocal delivery and Orbison’s trademark falsetto elevate the song to unparalleled emotional heights.
• Chart Success: “Only the Lonely” was a massive hit, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It not only established Roy Orbison as a formidable force in the music industry but also solidified his status as a crooner with an unparalleled ability to convey raw emotion.
• Enduring Legacy: Over the years, this song has been covered by numerous artists, further attesting to its timeless appeal. Its inclusion in various films, television shows, and commercials has ensured its place in pop culture for generations to come.
• Grammy Awards: Roy Orbison’s rendition of “Only the Lonely” received a Grammy nomination for Best Solo Vocal Performance, Male, in 1961, adding to its critical acclaim.

Video

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Only the lonely
Only the lonely

Only the lonely (dum-dum-dum-dumdy-doo-wah)
Know the way I feel tonight (ooh-yay-yay-yay-yeah)
Only the lonely (dum-dum-dum-dumdy-doo-wah)
Know this feeling ain’t right (dum-dum-dum-dumdy-doo-wah)

There goes my baby
There goes my heart
They’re gone forever
So far apart

But only the lonely
Know why
I cry
Only the lonely

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Only the lonely
Only the lonely

Only the lonely (dum-dum-dum-dumdy-doo-wah)
Know the heartaches I’ve been through (ooh-yay-yay-yay-yeah)
Only the lonely (dum-dum-dum-dumdy-doo-wah)
Know I cry and cry for you (dum-dum-dum-dumdy-doo-wah)

Maybe tomorrow
A new romance
No more sorrow
But that’s the chance

You gotta take
If your lonely heart breaks
Only the lonely

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