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Roy Orbison

Live Performances by Roy Orbison

  • In January 1962, when "Dream Baby" was performed in the live recording from "A Black and White Night," Roy Orbison was at a significant juncture in hi... Read Full Description >

    In January 1962, when "Dream Baby" was performed in the live recording from "A Black and White Night," Roy Orbison was at a significant juncture in his career. This performance followed his earlier successes in the late 1950s and early 1960s, including hits like "Only the Lonely" and "Crying." By this time, he was emerging as a prominent figure in rock and roll, known for his distinctive voice and emotional ballads. The song "Dream Baby" itself, originally written by Cindy Walker, showcased Orbison's ability to blend pop and country influences. The "Black and White Night" special, featuring an ensemble of talented musicians such as Bruce Springsteen and Elvis Costello, highlighted his enduring legacy and the respect he garnered as an innovative artist. This performance solidified his status as an influential figure in the music world, illustrating his profound impact on subsequent generations of musicians.

  • In early 1964, when the live recording of "Crying" was made, Roy Orbison was at a pivotal moment in his career. He had recently released the album "In... Read Full Description >

    In early 1964, when the live recording of "Crying" was made, Roy Orbison was at a pivotal moment in his career. He had recently released the album "In Dreams," which came out in 1963 and included the title track that would become one of his signature songs. His style, characterized by the blending of rock and roll with emotional ballads, was resonating strongly with audiences. "Crying," originally released in 1961, had also been re-popularized during the early '60s, showcasing Orbison's distinctive voice and poignant songwriting. This live performance reflects the height of his popularity during the early 1960s, shortly before he would further solidify his status as a rock legend with subsequent hits and impactful performances. Interestingly, Orbison was known for his trademark sunglasses and dramatic stage presence, which captivated audiences long before the era of music videos.

Roy Orbison Performs 'Oh, Pretty Woman' on The Ed Sullivan Show

CBS Studio 50
New York, NY, United States

October 11, 1964 | Video Length: 3:17
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  • In October 1964, when Roy Orbison performed "Oh, Pretty Woman" on The Ed Sullivan Show, he was at a significant point in his career, experiencing a re... Read Full Description >

    In October 1964, when Roy Orbison performed "Oh, Pretty Woman" on The Ed Sullivan Show, he was at a significant point in his career, experiencing a resurgence in popularity. This performance coincided with the release of his iconic single "Oh, Pretty Woman," which came out just a few months earlier in August 1964 and became one of his most enduring hits. At this time, Orbison was known for his distinctive voice and emotive ballads, successfully transitioning from country music to rock and pop. The Ed Sullivan Show was a major platform for artists, and Orbison's appearance solidified his presence in popular culture during the British Invasion. Interestingly, Orbison was one of the few rock artists who wasn't overshadowed by the Beatles and other British bands, highlighting his unique style and appeal. This particular performance not only showcased his vocal prowess but also helped elevate the song to legendary status in the annals of rock music.

Roy Orbison Performs 'Crying' Live at the Monument Concert

Monument Concert

January 1, 1965 | Video Length: 3:03
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  • In early 1965, Roy Orbison was enjoying a successful phase in his career, particularly with the release of his album "There Is Only One Roy Orbison" i... Read Full Description >

    In early 1965, Roy Orbison was enjoying a successful phase in his career, particularly with the release of his album "There Is Only One Roy Orbison" in 1965, just before the Monument Concert recording. This album featured several hit singles, including the iconic "Crying," which highlights Orbison's unparalleled vocal range and emotional delivery—a defining aspect of his artistry. The live performance of "Crying" at the Monument Concert captures Orbison at a peak moment in his popularity, showcasing his ability to connect with audiences while delivering powerful performances. An interesting fact about this period is that Orbison's unique blend of rock, pop, and operatic influences distinguished him from his contemporaries, contributing to the enduring impact of his music. The Monument Concert itself was a significant event, emphasizing Orbison's status as a pioneering figure in rock music during the 1960s.

Roy Orbison - Only the Lonely Performance at Monument Concert

Monument Concert

January 1, 1965 | Video Length: 2:34
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  • In January 1965, during the Monument Concert where Roy Orbison performed "Only the Lonely," he was experiencing a significant peak in his career. Prio... Read Full Description >

    In January 1965, during the Monument Concert where Roy Orbison performed "Only the Lonely," he was experiencing a significant peak in his career. Prior to this live recording, Orbison had released his iconic album "Orbison Way" in 1965, which included several hits that showcased his unique blend of rock, pop, and country influences. This was a period marked by his emotionally powerful vocal style and distinctive compositions, contributing to his rise as a prominent figure in the music industry. Interestingly, "Only the Lonely" was one of his breakout hits from 1960, solidifying his reputation and paving the way for future success. The live performance coincided with his growing popularity, showcasing his talents before large audiences and highlighting his charisma as a performer. Overall, 1965 was a pivotal year for Orbison, symbolizing both the height of his success and his lasting legacy in music history.

Roy Orbison's 'Oh, Pretty Woman' Performance at Monument Concert

Monument Concert

January 1, 1965 | Video Length: 2:58
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  • In January 1965, during the Monument Concert, Roy Orbison delivered a powerful live performance of his iconic hit "Oh, Pretty Woman," which was releas... Read Full Description >

    In January 1965, during the Monument Concert, Roy Orbison delivered a powerful live performance of his iconic hit "Oh, Pretty Woman," which was released in September 1964. This song marked a significant moment in Orbison's career, propelling him to mainstream success and becoming one of his signature tracks. By this time, he had already established himself as a formidable talent in the music industry, known for his distinctive voice and emotive songwriting. The success of "Oh, Pretty Woman" would not only solidify Orbison's status in rock and pop history but also lead to his first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The 1965 concert showcased his dynamic stage presence, reflecting a peak in his popularity as an artist during the mid-1960s, a period characterized by an increase in creative freedom and musical exploration for him.

  • In January 1966, when Roy Orbison performed "In Dreams" live, he was enjoying a resurgence in popularity following a successful period in the early 19... Read Full Description >

    In January 1966, when Roy Orbison performed "In Dreams" live, he was enjoying a resurgence in popularity following a successful period in the early 1960s. Just prior to this performance, he had released the album *Mystery Girl*, which included the hit "Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream)." This album showcased Orbison's signature emotive style and intricate arrangements, further solidifying his place in the rock and pop scene. Notably, Orbison's unique vocal range and songwriting prowess distinguished him from many of his contemporaries. The live performance in 1966 highlights his ability to convey deep emotion, a hallmark of his artistry. This period was significant for Orbison, as he faced personal challenges but continued to influence music with his profound lyrical themes and haunting melodies, paving the way for future successes.

Roy Orbison - Live Performance at The London Palladium, 1966

The London Palladium
London, United Kingdom

March 20, 1966 | Video Length: 12:49
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  • By March 20, 1966, when Roy Orbison performed at The London Palladium, he was experiencing a significant phase in his career. His previous album, "Orb... Read Full Description >

    By March 20, 1966, when Roy Orbison performed at The London Palladium, he was experiencing a significant phase in his career. His previous album, "Orbison Sings," released in 1965, had been well-received, showcasing his powerful vocals and emotionally charged songwriting. This live performance captured during the height of his popularity featured many of his classic hits, including "Only the Lonely" and "Oh, Pretty Woman," emphasizing his status as a leading figure in the rock and pop music scene of the 1960s. Interestingly, the performance was notable not only for its musical content but also because Orbison, who was known for his dynamic vocal delivery rather than on-stage movement, was limited in his movement due to an arm injury sustained shortly before the show. This added an intriguing aspect to the performance, further highlighting his exceptional vocal talent amidst physical constraints and cementing his legacy as a remarkable live performer.

Roy Orbison and Johnny Cash Perform 'Oh, Pretty Woman' on The Johnny Cash Show

The Johnny Cash Show

January 1, 1969 | Video Length: 3:01
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  • In January 1969, when Roy Orbison performed "Oh, Pretty Woman" on *The Johnny Cash Show*, he was experiencing a notable resurgence in his career. Prio... Read Full Description >

    In January 1969, when Roy Orbison performed "Oh, Pretty Woman" on *The Johnny Cash Show*, he was experiencing a notable resurgence in his career. Prior to this performance, Orbison had released the album *Roy Orbison's Many Moods* in 1969, which showcased his diverse musical style, blending rock, pop, and country influences. This live recording marked a significant moment as it was part of a broader era where Orbison was reconnecting with audiences, particularly through television appearances. Interestingly, this collaboration with Johnny Cash highlights their shared history; both artists had crossed paths in their early careers, even being part of the storied Sun Records label. The synergy in their performance not only underscores their individual artistry but also reflects the camaraderie and influence they had on one another during a transformative period in American music.

  • In January 1972, during the live recording of "Bridge Over Troubled Water" in Australia, Roy Orbison was experiencing a notable period in his career. ... Read Full Description >

    In January 1972, during the live recording of "Bridge Over Troubled Water" in Australia, Roy Orbison was experiencing a notable period in his career. By this time, he had recently released the album "Hank Williams, The Roy Orbison Way" in 1970, which showcased his ability to infuse country influences into his signature pop-rock sound. The live performance captured in Australia highlighted Orbison's impressive vocal range and emotive delivery, characteristics that had solidified his status as a prominent artist in the 1960s and early 1970s. After a decline in chart success in the late 1960s, he was beginning to reclaim his prominence, aided by his participation in the concert scene and television specials. Notably, this performance came just a few months before the release of his album "Roy Orbison Sings", which included tracks showcasing his enduring legacy as a singer-songwriter.

Roy Orbison Performs 'Oh, Pretty Woman' Live in Australia

Australia

January 1, 1972 | Video Length: 5:05
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  • In January 1972, during Roy Orbison's performance in Australia, he was promoting his album "Hank Williams Tribute" which had been released in late 197... Read Full Description >

    In January 1972, during Roy Orbison's performance in Australia, he was promoting his album "Hank Williams Tribute" which had been released in late 1971. This album highlighted his admiration for the legendary country artist and showcased Orbison's ability to cross genres, further solidifying his status in the music industry. By this time, Orbison had experienced a resurgence in popularity, partly due to the success of his earlier hits like "Oh, Pretty Woman." His live performances during this era were characterized by his deep, emotive voice and dynamic stage presence. Interestingly, this particular performance of "Oh, Pretty Woman" underscores not only his vocal prowess but also the strong connection he fostered with international audiences during his tours in the early 70s, which marked a significant phase in his extensive career.

Roy Orbison - Live Performance of 'Penny Arcade' in Australia

Australia

January 1, 1972 | Video Length: 3:08
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  • During the live recording of "Penny Arcade" in January 1972, Roy Orbison was in a significant phase of his career, characterized by a resurgence in po... Read Full Description >

    During the live recording of "Penny Arcade" in January 1972, Roy Orbison was in a significant phase of his career, characterized by a resurgence in popularity. Prior to this performance, Orbison had released the album "Roy Orbison's Greatest Hits" in 1965, which included some of his most iconic songs. However, it was the late 1960s and early 1970s that saw a revival of interest in his music, culminating in the release of his acclaimed album "Mystery Girl" in 1989, shortly before his untimely passing. Notably, by 1972, Orbison was recognized for his powerful voice and emotive ballads, which had captured a devoted audience worldwide. In the live recording from Australia, his performance emphasizes his ability to connect with fans, showcasing his unique blend of rock, pop, and country influences, and exemplifying the emotional depth that characterized his music throughout his career.

Live Performance of 'Blue Bayou' by Roy Orbison

January 1, 1973 | Video Length: 2:39
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  • In 1973, the year of the live recording of "Blue Bayou," Roy Orbison was at an interesting juncture in his career. Just prior to this performance, in ... Read Full Description >

    In 1973, the year of the live recording of "Blue Bayou," Roy Orbison was at an interesting juncture in his career. Just prior to this performance, in 1972, he had released the album "Hank Williams: A Tribute," which was a homage to the legendary country artist Hank Williams. The live rendition of "Blue Bayou," a song that highlights Orbison's hauntingly beautiful vocal style, was a significant moment as it showcased his transition into a more artistically diverse phase. By the early 1970s, Orbison was reclaiming his place in the music scene after a challenging period, finding success with songs that displayed his emotional depth and complex compositions. His ability to connect with audiences through live performances further solidified his status, making him a beloved figure in both rock and pop music during that era.

Roy Orbison - 'Crying' Live Performance at Austin City Limits

Austin City Limits
Austin, TX, United States

October 1, 1982 | Video Length: 2:56
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  • In October 1982, during Roy Orbison's performance on "Austin City Limits," he showcased his renowned vocal prowess with a rendition of "Crying." This ... Read Full Description >

    In October 1982, during Roy Orbison's performance on "Austin City Limits," he showcased his renowned vocal prowess with a rendition of "Crying." This live recording came in a period characterized by a resurgence in Orbison's popularity, partly attributed to his collaboration with younger artists and his role in the Traveling Wilburys. Just prior to this performance, in 1980, he released the album "Mystery Girl," which further solidified his legacy, featuring the hit "You Got It." Interestingly, this was part of a career comeback for Orbison, as he had experienced a decline in mainstream success during the late 1970s. His performance on Austin City Limits not only highlighted his classic hits but also marked a significant moment in bridging generational gaps in music, allowing new audiences to connect with his timeless work.

Roy Orbison - Only The Lonely Live Performance on Austin City Limits

Austin City Limits
Austin, TX, United States

October 1, 1982 | Video Length: 2:36
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  • In the live performance of "Only The Lonely" from October 1, 1982, on *Austin City Limits*, Roy Orbison was enjoying a resurgence in popularity after ... Read Full Description >

    In the live performance of "Only The Lonely" from October 1, 1982, on *Austin City Limits*, Roy Orbison was enjoying a resurgence in popularity after several years of relative obscurity. This concert was part of a period when he was touring and reconnecting with fans, significantly influenced by the revival of interest in his music throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s. Prior to this performance, Orbison had released the album *Mystery Girl* in 1989, which included hits like "You Got It." Interestingly, during this time, Orbison was also collaborating with modern artists and embracing new musical styles while maintaining his classic sound, solidifying his legacy as a timeless performer. The live recording highlights not only his vocal prowess but also his emotional depth, capturing the essence of his appeal that transcended generations.

Roy Orbison - Live Performance of 'Oh, Pretty Woman' at Farm Aid

Farm Aid
Champaign, Illinois, United States

September 22, 1985 | Video Length: 3:35
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  • In 1985, when Roy Orbison performed "Oh, Pretty Woman" live at the Farm Aid concert, he was experiencing a resurgence in his career, particularly afte... Read Full Description >

    In 1985, when Roy Orbison performed "Oh, Pretty Woman" live at the Farm Aid concert, he was experiencing a resurgence in his career, particularly after the release of the album "Mystery Girl" in 1989. This album, which came out shortly after his performance, featured some of his most iconic songs and was instrumental in rejuvenating his public image, blending his classic rock and roll sound with contemporary influences. Interestingly, Orbison's performance at Farm Aid not only showcased his enduring talent but also highlighted his support for social causes. The concert was aimed at raising awareness and funds for struggling family farmers, a testament to Orbison's commitment to community issues. His emotive performance style and powerful vocal delivery during this period contributed significantly to his lasting legacy in music.

Roy Orbison - 'In Dreams' Live Performance in Texas

Texas, TX, United States

November 30, 1985 | Video Length: 3:04
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  • In the live recording of "In Dreams" from November 30, 1985, Roy Orbison showcased his timeless vocal prowess in Texas, a notable representation of hi... Read Full Description >

    In the live recording of "In Dreams" from November 30, 1985, Roy Orbison showcased his timeless vocal prowess in Texas, a notable representation of his career resurgence during the mid-1980s. Leading up to this performance, Orbison had experienced a significant comeback with the release of the album "Mystery Girl" in 1989, which included some of his most enduring tracks. However, at the time of this 1985 concert, he was largely reviving his status in the music industry after years of relative obscurity, fueled by a new generation of fans and collaborations with contemporary artists. Notably, Orbison's striking vocal range and emotive style captivated audiences, earning him admiration that spanned decades. His confidence in live performances around this time, despite personal challenges, highlighted his resilience and commitment to his craft, reinforcing his legacy as a rock and roll pioneer.

Roy Orbison's Classic 'In Dreams' Live at Escape Disco

Escape Disco

January 1, 1987 | Video Length: 3:48
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  • In January 1987, when Roy Orbison performed at the Escape Disco, he was experiencing a resurgence in his career. This live recording took place shortl... Read Full Description >

    In January 1987, when Roy Orbison performed at the Escape Disco, he was experiencing a resurgence in his career. This live recording took place shortly after the release of his album "Mystery Girl," which came out in 1989, and is widely regarded as one of his most successful works. It's interesting to note that at this time, Orbison was enjoying a revival thanks to the burgeoning popularity of rockabilly and a new generation of fans. The performance featured "In Dreams," one of his classic songs known for its haunting melody and vivid storytelling. Orbison's profound influence on rock and pop music was being recognized anew, leading to collaborations with younger artists and a growing appreciation for his earlier work. This venue appearance highlights not only his enduring talent but also the late-career revitalization he experienced, ultimately culminating in his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame shortly after this performance.

Roy Orbison - Oh, Pretty Woman Performance from Black & White Night Concert

Coconut Grove
Los Angeles, CA, United States

September 30, 1987 | Video Length: 6:19
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  • In September 1987, Roy Orbison performed "Oh, Pretty Woman" during the iconic Black & White Night concert at the Coconut Grove in Los Angeles. At this... Read Full Description >

    In September 1987, Roy Orbison performed "Oh, Pretty Woman" during the iconic Black & White Night concert at the Coconut Grove in Los Angeles. At this point in his career, Orbison was experiencing a resurgence, largely due to the popularity of the song and his ability to captivate audiences with his distinct vocal style and emotional depth. Prior to this performance, he released the album "Mystery Girl" in 1989, which featured hits like "You Got It." The Black & White Night concert was significant not just for highlighting Orbison's talent but also for featuring a star-studded lineup of artists, including Bruce Springsteen and Elvis Costello, which underscored his influence within the music industry. The concert served as a celebration of Orbison's legacy and marked a pivotal moment as it reignited interest in his music shortly before his untimely passing.

  • In the live recording of "Oh, Pretty Woman" from January 1, 1988, Roy Orbison's career was experiencing a resurgence, largely thanks to his well-recei... Read Full Description >

    In the live recording of "Oh, Pretty Woman" from January 1, 1988, Roy Orbison's career was experiencing a resurgence, largely thanks to his well-received concert performances and renewed popularity in the late 1980s. Prior to this performance, Orbison had released the album "Mystery Girl" in 1989, which included some of his most notable later work and was produced during this period of revitalized interest. Interestingly, "Oh, Pretty Woman," originally released in 1964, is one of his signature songs and contributed significantly to his legacy as a music icon. During the time of the live recording, Orbison also benefited from a new generation of fans, influenced by his participation in the "Traveling Wilburys" supergroup, which helped solidify his status as a legendary figure in rock music.

  • In 1988, when Roy Orbison performed "You Got It" live, he was experiencing a significant resurgence in his career. This performance came shortly after... Read Full Description >

    In 1988, when Roy Orbison performed "You Got It" live, he was experiencing a significant resurgence in his career. This performance came shortly after the release of his album "Mystery Girl," which was launched in 1989 and marked his first studio album in over a decade. The single "You Got It," co-written by Orbison and others, became a major hit and is one of his most enduring songs, showcasing his signature emotive vocal style. At this point in his career, Orbison was seen as a pioneering figure in rock and pop, influencing many artists that followed him. Tragically, this period of revival was short-lived; he passed away only a few months after the album’s release in December 1988. The live performance captured his return to the limelight and underscored his lasting impact on the music industry.

  • In January 1988, during the taping of "Top of the Pops," Roy Orbison performed "Crying" alongside K.D. Lang, showcasing his enduring influence in the ... Read Full Description >

    In January 1988, during the taping of "Top of the Pops," Roy Orbison performed "Crying" alongside K.D. Lang, showcasing his enduring influence in the music industry. This live recording occurred shortly after the release of his album "Mystery Girl" in 1989, which was pivotal in revitalizing his career. "Mystery Girl" included hit singles like "You Got It," and marked a significant resurgence for Orbison, who had faced challenges in the preceding years. Not only was this collaboration notable for its blending of classic and contemporary styles, but it also highlighted Orbison's remarkable vocal range and emotional depth. The performance with K.D. Lang further exemplified his appeal across generations, as she brought a fresh reinterpretation to his classic hits. This marked a significant phase in Orbison's legacy, as he transitioned into a celebrated figure in the latter part of his career.

Roy Orbison Performs 'Oh, Pretty Woman' at Black & White Night 30

The Wiltern Theatre
Burbank, CA, United States

January 3, 1988 | Video Length: 5:55
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  • In January 1988, during the performance of "Oh, Pretty Woman" at The Wiltern Theatre for the "Black & White Night" concert, Roy Orbison was experienci... Read Full Description >

    In January 1988, during the performance of "Oh, Pretty Woman" at The Wiltern Theatre for the "Black & White Night" concert, Roy Orbison was experiencing a notable resurgence in his career. Before this live recording, Orbison had released the celebrated album "Mystery Girl" in 1989, which became his first posthumous hit, featuring tracks that revitalized his popularity. The concert showcased a star-studded lineup, including musicians like Bruce Springsteen and Tom Waits, highlighting Orbison's influential status in the music industry. The performance was particularly significant as it celebrated Orbison's unique vocal style and songwriting prowess, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that resonated with both old fans and new audiences. Ultimately, “Black & White Night” marked a pivotal moment in revitalizing the artist's legacy before his untimely passing later that year.

Roy Orbison Performs 'Mean Woman Blues' on Late Night with David Letterman

Late Night with David Letterman
New York, NY, United States

January 6, 1988 | Video Length: 6:39
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  • By January 6, 1988, when Roy Orbison made a notable appearance on "Late Night with David Letterman," he was enjoying a resurgence in popularity, parti... Read Full Description >

    By January 6, 1988, when Roy Orbison made a notable appearance on "Late Night with David Letterman," he was enjoying a resurgence in popularity, particularly due to the release of his album "Mystery Girl" just a few months prior in 1989. This album was significant as it contained the hit single "You Got It," marking a comeback for Orbison after a period of relative obscurity. His collaboration with Jeff Lynne, one of the Traveling Wilburys, also played a crucial role in this revival. During his performance on Letterman, he delivered "Mean Woman Blues," showcasing his timeless vocal prowess and connecting with both longtime fans and a new audience. This episode is particularly interesting as it also highlights Orbison's enduring influence in rock and pop music, exemplified by his recognition and admiration from younger artists like those in The Beatles and his peers in the '60s and '70s.

Roy Orbison - Running Scared Performance from Black & White Night 30

The Wiltern Theater
Los Angeles, CA, United States

February 24, 1988 | Video Length: 2:20
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  • In February 1988, during the recording of "Black & White Night 30," Roy Orbison was enjoying a notable resurgence in his career, having experienced a ... Read Full Description >

    In February 1988, during the recording of "Black & White Night 30," Roy Orbison was enjoying a notable resurgence in his career, having experienced a revival of popularity in the mid-1980s. Prior to this live concert, he released the album "Mystery Girl" in 1989, which came out shortly after his performance at The Wiltern Theater. This album would become significant as it marked Orbison's return to studio recording and featured the hit single "You Got It." The live performance at "Black & White Night 30" was not just a moment of nostalgia for Orbison but also highlighted his influence on subsequent generations of musicians. Notably, during this concert, he was joined by several famous artists, including Bruce Springsteen and Elvis Costello, showcasing his enduring appeal and the respect he garnered within the music industry. The direct connection between his live recordings and the new music he was producing illustrates his dynamic presence during this period.

Roy Orbison's Performance of 'Go! Go! Go! (Down the Line)' from Black & White Night 30

West Hollywood
Los Angeles, CA, United States

February 25, 1988 | Video Length: 5:23
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  • In February 1988, during the performance featured in the "Black & White Night 30," Roy Orbison was enjoying a resurgence in popularity, largely due to... Read Full Description >

    In February 1988, during the performance featured in the "Black & White Night 30," Roy Orbison was enjoying a resurgence in popularity, largely due to his contributions to the traveling event's star-studded lineup. This live recording came a year after he released the album "Mystery Girl" in 1989, which would ultimately become his final studio album. "Mystery Girl" featured hits like "You Got It," showcasing Orbison's unique vocal style and songwriting prowess. The concert was notable not only for its live music but also for the collaboration of various artists, including Bruce Springsteen and Elvis Costello, which highlighted Orbison's influential status in rock music. Additionally, this performance served as a celebration of his legacy, bringing together multiple generations of musicians and fans, solidifying his impact on the music industry before his untimely passing later that year.

  • The live recording of Roy Orbison performing "It's Over" during "A Black and White Night" showcases the artist at a significant point in his career. T... Read Full Description >

    The live recording of Roy Orbison performing "It's Over" during "A Black and White Night" showcases the artist at a significant point in his career. This televised concert, which aired in 1988, came after Orbison's resurgence in popularity, largely due to the success of his 1987 album, "Mystery Girl." This album featured the hit single "You Got It," marking a triumphant return for Orbison, who had been somewhat overlooked in the 1970s and early 1980s. "A Black and White Night" is particularly notable for its impressive lineup of guest artists, including Bruce Springsteen, k.d. lang, and Elvis Costello, reflecting Orbison's influence and respect within the music industry. The recording not only highlights his powerful vocals but also serves as a celebration of his contribution to rock music, solidifying his status as a legend.

  • In the live recording of "Blue Bayou" from "A Black and White Night," Roy Orbison was celebrating a period of resurgence in his career during the late... Read Full Description >

    In the live recording of "Blue Bayou" from "A Black and White Night," Roy Orbison was celebrating a period of resurgence in his career during the late 1980s. Notably, prior to this performance, he had released the album "Mystery Girl" in 1989, which marked a significant comeback for him, featuring hits like "You Got It." This live event, filmed in 1987, showcased Orbison's remarkable vocal ability and his enduring influence in the music industry. The performance includes an impressive lineup of artists, including Bruce Springsteen and k.d. lang, highlighting his revered status among his peers. Orbison's work during this era emphasized not just his iconic sound but also his ability to adapt and remain relevant, a testament to his enduring legacy in rock and pop music. "A Black and White Night" is particularly memorable as it captures the charisma and emotional depth of Orbison's performances, setting a high bar for live music events.

Roy Orbison - Full Concert Live in Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas, United States

Date Unknown | Video Length: 35:54
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  • Prior to the live recording of "Roy Orbison Live in Austin, Texas," which captures a pivotal moment in his career in 1981, Orbison had released the hi... Read Full Description >

    Prior to the live recording of "Roy Orbison Live in Austin, Texas," which captures a pivotal moment in his career in 1981, Orbison had released the highly acclaimed album "Mystery Girl" in 1989, just before his untimely death. However, it's essential to note that during the 1980s, Orbison experienced a resurgence in popularity, largely due to the success of his single "You Got It," which also appears on "Mystery Girl." The Austin concert is notable not only for showcasing his timeless vocal prowess but also for its intimate setting, illustrating his ability to connect with the audience despite the ups and downs of his career. This performance came at a time when Orbison was rediscovering his place in the rock and pop music landscape, following years of relative obscurity. His profound influence on the genre continues to resonate, as evident in this rare live show, reflecting both his legacy and the rebirth of his career in the late 20th century.

  • In the live recording of "Running Scared," featured in "A Black and White Night," Roy Orbison was experiencing a significant resurgence in his career.... Read Full Description >

    In the live recording of "Running Scared," featured in "A Black and White Night," Roy Orbison was experiencing a significant resurgence in his career. This concert, which took place in 1987, came after a period of relative obscurity for Orbison in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The performance was a celebration of his earlier hits and revitalized his presence in the music industry. Prior to this live special, he had released the album "Mystery Girl" in 1989, which achieved commercial success and included the hit single "You Got It." Notably, "A Black and White Night" showcased Orbison alongside an impressive lineup of contemporary artists, including Bruce Springsteen and k.d. lang, highlighting his lasting influence and appeal across generations. This event also solidified Orbison's legacy, as it was one of his final performances before his untimely passing in 1988.

Roy Orbison performs 'Ooby Dooby' at Black and White Night

Black and White Night

Date Unknown | Video Length: 4:05
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  • The live recording of "Ooby Dooby" at "A Black and White Night" highlights a significant moment in Roy Orbison's career, occurring in 1987 when he exp... Read Full Description >

    The live recording of "Ooby Dooby" at "A Black and White Night" highlights a significant moment in Roy Orbison's career, occurring in 1987 when he experienced a notable resurgence in popularity. Before this event, he had released the album "Mystery Girl" in 1989, which marked his return to the music scene. "Mystery Girl" featured hits such as "You Got It," which reaffirmed his status as a legendary artist. The performance at Black and White Night showcased Orbison alongside an impressive lineup of artists, including Bruce Springsteen, k.d. lang, and Elvis Costello, reflecting his strong influence and respect within the industry. Interestingly, "Ooby Dooby," originally recorded for Sun Records, was one of Orbison's earliest tracks, linking the performance to both his roots and the evolution of his music career over the years. This event and subsequent album signified a revival of his creative output and connection with new and returning fans.

  • "You Got It" was released in 1989 as part of Roy Orbison's comeback album, "Mystery Girl." This project was particularly significant as it marked Orbi... Read Full Description >

    "You Got It" was released in 1989 as part of Roy Orbison's comeback album, "Mystery Girl." This project was particularly significant as it marked Orbison's return to the spotlight after a period of diminished commercial success in the 1970s and early 1980s. The song exemplifies his enduring appeal and showcases his signature vocal style, which combines emotional depth with powerful delivery. Interestingly, "You Got It" was written by Orbison alongside Jeff Lynne and Tom Petty, both of whom also contributed to his second-to-last album, of which "Mystery Girl" was a crucial entry completed shortly before Orbison’s untimely passing. The release of this song and album, along with its positive reception, demonstrated Orbison's lasting influence on rock and pop music, solidifying his legacy as one of the genre's greats by blending traditional rock with contemporary sounds of the era.