Bono tells an amazing story about Roy when he recorded "She`s a Mystery Girl", seemingly when they started Roy just gently hummed the track till he was comfortable with it, the producer not aware of Roy`s vocal power reset the desk to Roy`s humming level (Big Mistake) and when Roy started to record properly he almost blew the speakers. When Elvis was asked how it felt to be the best singer in the world he said you should ask Roy Orbison.
I guess that’s 2 entirely different thoughts? I got lost when you mentioned Elvis! “She’s a Mystery Girl” was recorded when Orbison was with the Traveling Wilburys* & it’s on one of their releases. *George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty & Jeff Lynne (Electric Light Orchestra)* all revered Orbison’s powerful resonant pitch-perfect voice.
My husband was an audio engineer for 40 years. He worked with pretty much everyone performing music at least once. He has always said that there were two singers whose vocals got better and stronger the longer the performance went on. Those two singers? Luciano Pavarotti and Roy Orbison.
I just listened to "Crying" a few dozen times on the hard drive in my car. The song itself is so-so, but Orbison's commitment to it raises it to a memorable level. The song goes to the maudlin edge, then goes right through that to a truly affecting level. The production is superb too, although the strings may get a tad excited at the end. "Crying" was the Billboard No. 4 single for 1961, just below "Michael" (the one rowing the boat ashore), just above "Runaway." No. 1 was...Tossin' and Turnin'". Billboard's ratings were peculiar at times.
“Running Scared” was, in my opinion, an amazing vocal performance on a song with a Bolero-like crescendo of intensity to its thrilling conclusion and high note.
It's a little spooky to me, an old woman who hit 77 last week, to hear you break down Roy's skill, because when I was a young girl and so unschooled in music, I could still understand that I was hearing a master listening to his records. We were blessed.
That is why we stopped dead in our tracks when his music came through someone's transistor radio or the radio of a passing car. We honed in with laser precision. It was mind blowing.
Understand completely. This 78 year old bought his first Roy Orbison 45 record in April 1961 (Running Scared). I knew nothing about him but just loved his singing. Been a big fan ever since and have influenced my children and granddaughter. I even got my parents to like him. I have no musical ability at all but just knew way back then that he was great.
A good friend of mine saw Orbison perform a few weeks before his death. He told me that Roy sounded just the same as ever. If I could sing like Roy Orbison, I'd never shut up.
I was privileged to have attended one of Mr. Orbison's last live performances at the Paramount Theatre in Seattle. It was astounding. He seemed to choose the exact area in his palate to hit notes with laser accuracy. The speakers were literally ringing and vibrating with his voice's amazing power. The whole show was a standing ovation. There was so much love in the room that night, I'll never forget it.
I was there as well at the paramount in 88 ..if memory serves correctly his last song was running scared ..and for the encore he came out and did that last part one octave higher is that the way you remember it? Great great show a great memory
I am a know-nothing about singing. I’m just here for Fil’s smile. You have the sweetest, most engaging expression of delight-it makes me smile just watching you. Thank you. 😁👍🏻
I have been saying the same to my 22 yo daughter. Watch the expression of sheer joy on his face listening to the songs he plays as the singers hit the right notes
Almost unbelievably, Roy was not a trained singer. I have never tried to understand that; I just marvel. In some ways, it's almost a naivete: "aren't you *supposed* to sing like this? Doesn't everyone?" Later, of course, he had to know that he was unique in popular music. And then he *really* began to soar! Roy became a songwriter almost not by choice, in my view. It's just that his voice demanded he supply his voice with appropriate material that just didn't exist for him. There's very little that I can add. He's Roy Orbison. Very nearly an adjective regarding singing rather than a proper noun. "That's very 'Roy Orbison'" is a sentence that makes perfect sense. He's incomparable. Unique.
Roy had an Operatic voice. He was beyond all on his own - yet, when he joined The Traveling Wilburys it seemed he had more fun with singing in this group.
So true he love it and they where very close as friends after the traveling wilburys and his kids Roy Alex and Wesley are all very close to the traveling wilburys and we're very close with Tom Petty
I was absolutely blown away by Orbison’s voice when isolated like that. I’ve listened to Mr. Orbison for over 50 years and loved his singing but never truly appreciated the quality of his voice until now. Thank you so much.
The effect of glissando plus vibrato in classical singing - especially in the italien style - is called "portamento". There it is used as an expression of "suffering". At least it is an extreme form of "legato". So I think Roys style of singing definitely has classical elements.
They didn't call Roy "the voice" for nothing. I've listened to his music all my life, courtesy my father. Still beautiful and can still give me chills. Thanks so much for your analysis, wonderful to hear him this way.
Hey, im going to Roy Orbison’s hometown of Wink, Texas tomorrow. There’s an old museum right on the main street. I made a Wink playlist with a lot of Roy’s songs on my ipad that i always use when I’m driving down that two lane highway toward town! Makes you feel happy to be alive!
These analysis videos with the pitch monitor are fantastic, and add so much to my understanding of what I am hearing. These could constitute an entire course. You can see that Orbison's voice it totally unique, which of course we already knew, from hearing it, but you have shown us why. Yes, he had exceptional range. I didn't realize, though, that he was starting the vibrato as soon as he hit the note. I didn't realize the incredible consistency of the vibrato, nor how extremely wide it was. I didn't realize that he had the slides between notes, like the crooners, which Bing and Dean Martin used to make songs sound relaxed, but which Roy uses to pack the song with emotion, sadness, despair, joy, elation, etc. One other comment I have to make here, is praise for Fil. Fil not only describes a specific effect that he sees on the pitch monitor, he then reproduces it, which makes it much easier to comprehend. Fil can sing a note with vibrato coming in at the start, or coming in later, or with a very wide vibrato, or he can emulate the slides between notes. I have to give these analysis videos an A+++++++.
I love Fil and his music theory. He’s so easy to listen to (and easy to look at) and he has taught me more in a couple of weeks than I learned in school. Thank you!
It was pretty gratifying to see Roy achieve success and acclaim later on in his life after having suffered a terrible personal tragedy and then fading into relative obscurity. Doubly so that he was able to do it before dying at such a young age.
I think if Roy had gone into opera music rather than pop, he would have done quite well in that genre with his natural vocal abilities. But then of course we wouldn't have his beautiful singing on "Only The Lonely", "Cryin'", "Pretty Woman", "Dream Baby" and many of his other timeless masterpieces to listen to today.
Roy Orbison is the greatest singer ever in popular music. And this is all the evidence required to prove the point. The range, the power, the complete emotional commitment to the song,..it is something that other singers will have to aspire to, but Roy will always be the king.
@@HarmonyHomeInspectionServices I was thinking about Chris Isaak also. He was obviously influenced by Roy Orbison but didn't have the vocal power Roy had. Although, I'm not an expert on Chris Isaak because I only listened to his songs on the radio and never bought his music.
@@DavidChoiniere yes but Elvis thought Roy Orbison was way better as he did Tom Jones as well but they all had those three had a lot of respect for each other Tom Jones Roy Orbison Elvis Presley
Roy Orbison had a Steller voice! and excellent storyteller songwriter. "People often ask me how would I like to be remembered and I answer that I would simply like to be remembered." Roy Orbison April 23, 1936 - December 6, 1988
Hi Drew. What a simple but profound quote. There is a saying I'm sure you know with several versions. "A person dies twice. Once when he draws his last breath and once when his name is last spoken". Fil is keeping the flame burning with his videos for so many musical artists.
Hi Fil, I was fortunate to see Roy on a few occasions and the thing I remember most was how Roy would sing out at the end of the crescendo section of a song and his voice would reverberate around the theater. I'm sure the mic had a bid of echo on it but still....it was unbelievable. Roy was having a resurgence before he passed...we can only wonder what would have been from this iconic vocalist.
Yes, I saw him too. Wasn’t a huge fan of his records but live? Chills - sorry that can’t really be captured so if you didn’t get the chance to see him in person you’ll never really understand.
He’s unearthly good. Also, most people that think that crescendo means the sudden big part of a song - but the word means a slow buildup in intensity. I think of a song like bolero, as opposed to a song like crying
I heard Tom Petty once exclaim that he would call Roy on the phone and it struck him at how beautiful Roy's SPEAKING voice was over the phone. He WAS a machine...but with a ton of emotion factored in. Rest in Peace Roy😎
There will never be another. His life story was a living example of vibrato with the ups and downs he experienced. But it is great that the final years in the late 80's early 90's he was acknowledged and celebrated.
I heard him say in an interview years ago that if they wanted him without vibrato, they had to get him first thing in the morning. So that's just his voice! Thanks for your awesome insights. I have such a new appreciation for the work and the talent.
I became somewhat obsessed with Roy during college and did a project about him- one of my research books mentioned how he never seemed to move his lips or throat when he sang and instead relied on his diaphragm to "push" the words out. I later became a tour guide and I'll tell you, that method has saved my vocal cords over the years.
Roy Orbison had such unique voice & look. I love The Black & White concert; full of incredible artists like Bruce Springsteen, Kade Lang & many others but it was all about Roy and he was magnificent ❤ Great Breakdown Fil !!
@@CharronMcLeod Yes, fabulous indeed 😊. I think every musician, singer on stage was famous in their own right. It just had the right mix and the result was a magical vibe 🌟✴🌟
Another one of the great singers I grew up with & had his records. Roy Orbison had one of the most smooth powerful voices. He could sing real high falsetto & also low. Elvis Presley loved Roy's voice. Roy had lots of great hits in the 60's. In 1988, he co-founded the Traveling Wilburys with George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, & Jeff Lynne & they had a lot of great songs too.
Listen to early 1960's elvis presley. "It's now or never" 1960, etc.... You will hear an effortless smooth sound, both chest and head voice. Powerful smooth operatic sound. People who are not educated, don't know a thing about elvis's remarkable chameleon voice.
Roy was from my area in West Texas. When he was in high school he would come here with his band and play on a couple of the local TV stations on the weekends. My mother couldn’t stand his voice. Roy had already written Ooby Dooby and that’s what Mother called him from then on. “That Ooby Dooby is singing again. TURN OFF THE TV!” Fast forward about fifty years and I hired a Roy Orbison impersonator to perform at her 80th birthday party. She got a big kick out of it. I also hired a young bagpipe player because she hated bagpipes. He was quite good too and neither one knew that they were part of a cruel practical joke. I have always loved Roy’s singing. He wrote ‘Only the Lonely’ when he and a fellow songwriter were living here in Midland, Texas briefly in the mid-1950’s. In actual fact, he got his big break here about the same time when a young Elvis Presley, and a young Johnny Cash were doing a concert here at a local high school.
@@jeffsparey9585 Cheers, mate! Yes, Buddy was from Lubbock, which is 120 miles north of here. I am a Buddy Holly fan too. Paul McCartney is a very big fan of his. As you probably know, the Beatles borrowed from the Crickets when they named their band.
Roy was one of the great American singers. You know his voice anywhere. It's unique and distinct! Thanks for the analysis. My husband enjoyed it, too! ❤
During the Wilburys sessions, when doubtless many comparisons were being made, Roy told the boys in the band he was the only vocalist among them. Yes that's Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne, George Harrison and Tom Petty, not vocalists. They were 'vocal stylists' in Mr Orbison's book, a distinction illustrated by this upload.
I can't say if it's true or not since I didn't witness it. But I also don't believe they would've argued with him either. From what I gather, he was pretty much universally loved and respected among his peers.
If he said so, he was probably right. But it also goes to show you can be a great performer without having the greatest vocal instrument. Probably not many better examples than Bob Dylan and Tom Petty, who definitely are/were stylists and absolutely phenomenal at it.
I have recently began watching your videos and GIANT KUDOS to you! I love that you are a "musician's musician"! It is delightful witnessing your reactions and seeing the joy in your face!! My late father loved Roy Orbison and was in awe of his voice! Roy being a fellow Southerner brought so much pride to my father as well to me! Thank you for assessing Roy and keeping his beautiful voice and songs alive! PEACE OUT! ❤👍✌🎶
I know nothing about music-but i know when i hear something I love, without knowing the technical reasons why. It is also very uplifting to watch Fil’s expertise and love of music. Rock Fil!
Roy has an amazing voice and I have known anyone who hits note straight on verbrato. What a natural talent. I think it's interesting to study voices to find out why they are so unique. Another awesome analysis video Fil. You always show great respect and enthusiasm with every one that you do. They are so infectious just like your smile 😊
One of my musical Heroes. I loved everything he sang. His voice was truly amazing and he was a man who saw lots of grief in his personal life. Thank you Fil.🎼🖤
This is your best video yet. Roy is one of my favorite singers! I must say though that when I put on one of your videos my wife rolls her eyes, she just doesn't get it. lol
Roy Orbison was a masterful singer. This man inspired McCartney, Lennon, and Harrison!!!! One of the most influential of American singers who were the dominant voices of the 50’s, and early 60’s.
And a major inspiration to Barry Gibb, as well. In this video, you can see Barry's respect of/appreciation for Roy. th-cam.com/video/r1o666F27JM/w-d-xo.html
The interval leaps he makes, too 😮 - mind-boggling! Unbelievable vocal gift - Roy almost puts me in mind of a male Karen Carpenter. You just don’t hear people with that kind of ability singing pop or rock! Fil, didn’t realize you’d studied voice that much - great job of imitating Roy 😎😁! (not easy)
A couple of the studio session men on the Sky Arts Roy Orbison documentary said that there were virtually no retakes on a recording session. Roy sang the song and it was in the can. I believed it. Great video thanks.
All of us have experienced celebrity deaths that affected us, but when Roy Orbison died, I was moved to tears. I always loved his singing and songwriting and he had just experienced a big popular comeback with the Black and White Night as well as the Traveling Wilburys. He was at his second peak of popularity when he suddenly passed. It was extremely sad for me. But he left us with some absolutely beautiful recordings.
Thank you for this one. I have loved Roy Orbison since my childhood. The emotion that came through his voice/songs always moved me. Now I understand why. He had an ability to tell a story and have his audience connect with it. His song "Running Scared" is one of the best, if not THE best, love songs of all time. Not to mention he just seemed like a really cool dude.
You are really getting the best of the best…Roy’s voice is unmistakeable! That cry in his voice that only he could do was at a place where the voice breaks into real crying…such an unassuming person…I hope his music lives forever!
I believe as an addendum to my first remark that I believe it comes from great pain…he lost his wife and two young boys and I really believe his sorrow drenches his voice in these style of songs!
I love how direct and professional you are, and how you dummy it down for us non-musical people just at the right moment. Very informative, educational, and utterly interesting! I have no talent whatsoever, but for some reason, I have an ear, appreciation or whatever it is... to decipher talent vs average or popularity. It's weird because I can't sing a note. You've just provided a lot of insight. I've enjoyed binge-watching your videos today!
When you isolate and examine these voices, it's a further acknowledgement of the skill we all sensed was there . For decades, Roy's voice was in the public realm. That Gothic, horror story life of personal tragedies he lived through shifted public focus away from his appeal and started to focus on his courage. He worked through it. You add dignity and celebration to a voice I've heard most of my lfe. Measureable and observable. Thank you .
I once had a cat that when ever Roy came on the radio or I put Roy CD/DVD on the cat would stop what ever he was doing sit down and listen to Roy's voice everytime with out fail then when the sing finished he'd go back to what he was doing. How magical was Roy's voice even Elvis said you can't better a Roy Orbison song and that's why he never covered one of the Big O's tracks.
You have such a lovely smile! I did decide to come back, I'm not sure I need my music broken down so much. I just love listening to it. But I enjoyed watching your reaction, mostly because of your angelic smile! All of the music talk went way over my head! So here's what I've decided to do, I'm going to come back once a week and check out one of your videos to show you my support and to see your beautiful smile. Thanks again!
Welcome to what a perfect example of a real and unique human 'looks' and sounds like. I don't know about the rest of you, but I vote to retain musical truth - musical spice is nice! THIS is what I want to see and hear live or on a recording. Wonderful analysis of a fantastic and very unique singer, Fil. You're doing the 'Art' of music good. Cheers.
I so love your analysis Fil. ♥️ Roy was such an original. He scared Elvis he was so good. "Running Scared" still brings tears to my ears after all these years. Great job with the great one Fil.
Great commentary Fil. My mom was a classical pianist, my dad an old school swing guitarist. Interestingly, they both found Roy's voice incredible. I love how his 'imperfections' are recognized as his technical brilliance!
I have to be careful about listening to Roy Orbison. It’s so beautiful that it often makes me weep with a strange combination of feelings. Overwhelming admiration for his talent, and melancholy because of the emotional impact of his material.
Right! I am crying now and I don't know why haha My mother and father would listen to country and oldies which I didnt understand while I was listening to Depeche Mode and Ministry, but there were 2 that would make me emotional inexplicably which I now know why: Hank Williams Sr and Roy Orbison.
Now I understand why I was always drawn to Roy! I always felt he had a haunting perfection in his vocals. After learning about his life, the pain and sorrow he lived through, it fit. Emotionally he had the ability to bring tears to my eyes, still does in fact. Roy is one of my all time favorite singers. Truly loved his songs and him. Wish I could have told him so. Fil, thank you for this!!
I have always loved Roy Orbison voice. Thank you for this and explaining this man's amazing talent in a way that I can understand better. Saw Roy live in Toronto Canada in 1974. He was wonderful.
Great analysis! I love Roy Orbison and really enjoyed this! What a voice - beauty, range, power and emotion, plus something extra. I can feel his voice, and I don't think it's just an emotional response. Chills with certain notes, not necessarily the highest or loudest ones, and tears without feeling sad. He was definitely one of a kind!
thank you for all you share and review. ahhhhh roy orbison.... even as a teen i just loved him. hardly any can top his way of moving your emotions...he can make you have tears quickly and then make you release them right on que. def a singer w/lots of feeling and emotion. so unique... so missed.
He was one in a bazillion for sure. So emotive, I can still remember feeling so sad for him, at nine years old, when I first heard Only The Lonely. 😥💜 I'm still loving so much how you're taking the time and effort to teach us why we react to singers the way we do, thanks Fil. 😊🤘
Thanks Fil, fabulous analysis! Don't think there's any artists comparable to Roy, he was so special, totally unique, gifted and a blessing for us all. Love Roy Orbinson!
Roy's voice is one of my earliest memories! It's awesome to SEE exactly how he could manage to capture a little kid's attention so completely with that warm enveloping emotional journey.
Fil I can remember a story about Roy Orbison when he was first recording. The engineer give him the song he went in the booth and sort of mumbled it, the engineer thought man we're in trouble, and then the greatest sound he ever heard happen when you replay the track and Roy sang
Roy was the best singer I have ever heard. He performed at a club an hour's drive away, but I was too tired to go. He died a few weeks later. I was upset!
Elvis Presley said Roy Orbison's voice was the greatest and most distinctive he had ever heard. An exceptional range and also a great songwriter. Unique talent.
Elvis said there was one singer he would Never do a Cover of, & that was Roy Orbison …. Elvis’s reason for saying this? …. He said it was because he would not have been able to improve on any song sang by Roy. When he was offered one of Roy’s songs, he turned it down. He said he loved Roy’s voice. In hindsight, perhaps he should have done a Cover of it, because Roy was down on his luck at that time, & the royalties of record sales made by Elvis’ adoring fans, would have come in very handy for Roy, at that time. They met up with one another in Vegas, having not seen each other in more than ten years, & they were excited to be seeing one another again. Roy enjoyed seeing Elvis perform in Vegas, & they spent time chatting together after Elvis’ concert, catching up as old friends do. Roy had an exceptional & unique voice.
More more more Roy please...he is just the best... could you please present his voice several more times ...this was the very best presentation given thank you
When you put a band together with the likes of George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty and Jeff Lynn, how could some other guy be the headliner. But Roy was. When Bruce Springsteen was the world's foremost performer, no-one could touch him...except Roy, who he adored and happily played second fiddle and was honored to do so. Oh Roy!
I watched an interview back in the early 90's with George, Tom, and Jeff talking about how they were so excited that Roy said yes to joining the "Traveling Wilburys"! Like these legends in music were fan girling over Roy Orbison is testament how Roy had a voice and talent from out of this world.
IMHO, outside of people in the know about music, Roy is so underappreciated. He truly had the ability to sing without any effort. Some people make it look effortless but Roy was just able to do it without thinking about it and his voice has so much emotion and tension in it that your felt every note. Great analysis and loving learning through the visual mechanics of the pitch recognizing software. Thank you, Fil.
Bono tells an amazing story about Roy when he recorded "She`s a Mystery Girl", seemingly when they started Roy just gently hummed the track till he was comfortable with it, the producer not aware of Roy`s vocal power reset the desk to Roy`s humming level (Big Mistake) and when Roy started to record properly he almost blew the speakers. When Elvis was asked how it felt to be the best singer in the world he said you should ask Roy Orbison.
Lol he was right
“You should ask Roy,” that’s powerful
Bono wrote Mystery Girl along with Edge.
I guess that’s 2 entirely different thoughts? I got lost when you mentioned Elvis!
“She’s a Mystery Girl” was recorded when Orbison was with the Traveling Wilburys* & it’s on one of their releases.
*George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty & Jeff Lynne (Electric Light Orchestra)* all revered Orbison’s powerful resonant pitch-perfect voice.
I got chills …
Thanks for the story share 👋
My husband was an audio engineer for 40 years. He worked with pretty much everyone performing music at least once. He has always said that there were two singers whose vocals got better and stronger the longer the performance went on. Those two singers? Luciano Pavarotti and Roy Orbison.
Pavarotti would be a fun to analyze.
Goodness me your husband was one SUPER LUCKY MAN!!! he got the prime seat to see some of THE GREATEST LEGENDS!!
Jan, Luciano, Roy and Nelson Eddy are my two favorite singers in the world!
@@kathleennorton6108 He has been on this Forum.
So interesting! I love them both.
"Crying" is arguably his finest vocal performance in my opinion. Unbelievable range and breath control.
I would love to hear Phil's analysis on "Crying".
The best
I just listened to "Crying" a few dozen times on the hard drive in my car. The song itself is so-so, but
Orbison's commitment to it raises it to a memorable level. The song goes to the maudlin edge, then goes right through that to a truly affecting level. The production is superb too, although the strings may get a tad excited at the end. "Crying" was the Billboard No. 4 single for 1961, just below "Michael" (the one rowing the boat ashore), just above "Runaway." No. 1 was...Tossin' and Turnin'". Billboard's ratings were peculiar at times.
Don McLean does a magnificent version of “Crying”, also, and his version was praised by the Big “O”, himself.
“Running Scared” was, in my opinion, an amazing vocal performance on a song with a Bolero-like crescendo of intensity to its thrilling conclusion and high note.
It's a little spooky to me, an old woman who hit 77 last week, to hear you break down Roy's skill, because when I was a young girl and so unschooled in music, I could still understand that I was hearing a master listening to his records. We were blessed.
That is why we stopped dead in our tracks when his music came through someone's transistor radio or the radio of a passing car. We honed in with laser precision. It was mind blowing.
Understand completely. This 78 year old bought his first Roy Orbison 45 record in April 1961 (Running Scared). I knew nothing about him but just loved his singing. Been a big fan ever since and have influenced my children and granddaughter. I even got my parents to like him. I have no musical ability at all but just knew way back then that he was great.
Yes! Exactly and I am the same as I am 73. He really was that good.
A good friend of mine saw Orbison perform a few weeks before his death. He told me that Roy sounded just the same as ever. If I could sing like Roy Orbison, I'd never shut up.
I was privileged to have attended one of Mr. Orbison's last live performances at the Paramount Theatre in Seattle. It was astounding. He seemed to choose the exact area in his palate to hit notes with laser accuracy. The speakers were literally ringing and vibrating with his voice's amazing power. The whole show was a standing ovation. There was so much love in the room that night, I'll never forget it.
What a lovely memory, thank you for sharing!
Nice. I saw Roy Orbinson with The Beach Boys, 1988 Akron Ohio.
I was there as well at the paramount in 88 ..if memory serves correctly his last song was running scared ..and for the encore he came out and did that last part one octave higher is that the way you remember it? Great great show a great memory
That wasn't his last live performance
Saw/heard him in Portland in 1987. Everyone was up and dancing when he did Pretty Woman. Priceless.
I am a know-nothing about singing. I’m just here for Fil’s smile. You have the sweetest, most engaging expression of delight-it makes me smile just watching you. Thank you. 😁👍🏻
Oh my goodness-i said the same thing in recent post! I love Fil’s loving what he’s doing-he just radiates goodness!
I agree and thinks he resembles Prof. Brian Cox, physicist.
I have been saying the same to my 22 yo daughter. Watch the expression of sheer joy on his face listening to the songs he plays as the singers hit the right notes
Almost unbelievably, Roy was not a trained singer. I have never tried to understand that; I just marvel. In some ways, it's almost a naivete: "aren't you *supposed* to sing like this? Doesn't everyone?" Later, of course, he had to know that he was unique in popular music. And then he *really* began to soar!
Roy became a songwriter almost not by choice, in my view. It's just that his voice demanded he supply his voice with appropriate material that just didn't exist for him.
There's very little that I can add. He's Roy Orbison. Very nearly an adjective regarding singing rather than a proper noun. "That's very 'Roy Orbison'" is a sentence that makes perfect sense. He's incomparable. Unique.
Smoked like a chimney, too.
It is very interesting what you said about Roy's song writing. He is very unique vocalist and melodist. Thank you.
@@irinaarcher325 Thank you.
@@seed_drill7135 😔
Thank you. All of that.
Roy had an Operatic voice. He was beyond all on his own - yet, when he joined The Traveling Wilburys it seemed he had more fun with singing in this group.
Agree, so glad TW were created
So true he love it and they where very close as friends after the traveling wilburys and his kids Roy Alex and Wesley are all very close to the traveling wilburys and we're very close with Tom Petty
Not everyone sees the empty rocking chair on the “It’s All Right”video. Roy’s voice is there and his spirit is rocking in the rocking chair..😢💕💜
Roy's in a league of his own, he wrote many of his songs as well. RIP Big O.
Roy's the best. He could have even put most opera singers to shame if he went that route. There will never be another Roy Orbison.
I was absolutely blown away by Orbison’s voice when isolated like that. I’ve listened to Mr. Orbison for over 50 years and loved his singing but never truly appreciated the quality of his voice until now. Thank you so much.
His voice is so beautiful in its sound and its conveyance if life and love
The effect of glissando plus vibrato in classical singing - especially in the italien style - is called "portamento". There it is used as an expression of "suffering". At least it is an extreme form of "legato". So I think Roys style of singing definitely has classical elements.
And you can feel the pain in his voice.
If anyone knew suffering in his life it was Roy.
Thanks…..!
@@opera93 Thank you!
Portamento is really a forgotten art. Roy was a master at it.
I knew Roy Orbison was a phenomenal singer, but seeing his vocals broken down technically like you have done is amazing to see.
Roy was a legend. Such effortless singing.
They didn't call Roy "the voice" for nothing. I've listened to his music all my life, courtesy my father. Still beautiful and can still give me chills. Thanks so much for your analysis, wonderful to hear him this way.
Hey, im going to Roy Orbison’s hometown of Wink, Texas tomorrow. There’s an old museum right on the main street. I made a Wink playlist with a lot of Roy’s songs on my ipad that i always use when I’m driving down that two lane highway toward town! Makes you feel happy to be alive!
I've heard him referred to as the Caruso of rock 'n' roll. What a beautiful sound!
These analysis videos with the pitch monitor are fantastic, and add so much to my understanding of what I am hearing. These could constitute an entire course. You can see that Orbison's voice it totally unique, which of course we already knew, from hearing it, but you have shown us why. Yes, he had exceptional range. I didn't realize, though, that he was starting the vibrato as soon as he hit the note. I didn't realize the incredible consistency of the vibrato, nor how extremely wide it was. I didn't realize that he had the slides between notes, like the crooners, which Bing and Dean Martin used to make songs sound relaxed, but which Roy uses to pack the song with emotion, sadness, despair, joy, elation, etc.
One other comment I have to make here, is praise for Fil. Fil not only describes a specific effect that he sees on the pitch monitor, he then reproduces it, which makes it much easier to comprehend. Fil can sing a note with vibrato coming in at the start, or coming in later, or with a very wide vibrato, or he can emulate the slides between notes. I have to give these analysis videos an A+++++++.
Do not even need to listen in order to thumbs up. Agreed! Roy was legend
I love Fil and his music theory. He’s so easy to listen to (and easy to look at) and he has taught me more in a couple of weeks than I learned in school. Thank you!
Agreed. Its difficult to articulate, but Fil has so much unique talent in order to accurately explain and illustrate Roy's unique talent!!!☺💪🏾
Absolutely
I didn't even know that I wanted to know it. How this analysis doesn't ruin performances for me is surprising.
It was pretty gratifying to see Roy achieve success and acclaim later on in his life after having suffered a terrible personal tragedy and then fading into relative obscurity. Doubly so that he was able to do it before dying at such a young age.
Roy’s voice is absolutely one of the best.
What I always found amazing, is that Roy would hardly move on stage, hardly open his mouth, yet out came his divine voice.
I think if Roy had gone into opera music rather than pop, he would have done quite well in that genre with his natural vocal abilities. But then of course we wouldn't have his beautiful singing on "Only The Lonely", "Cryin'", "Pretty Woman", "Dream Baby" and many of his other timeless masterpieces to listen to today.
Roy Orbison is the greatest singer ever in popular music. And this is all the evidence required to prove the point. The range, the power, the complete emotional commitment to the song,..it is something that other singers will have to aspire to, but Roy will always be the king.
Do you enjoy listening to Chris Isaak as well?
@@HarmonyHomeInspectionServices I was thinking about Chris Isaak also. He was obviously influenced by Roy Orbison but didn't have the vocal power Roy had. Although, I'm not an expert on Chris Isaak because I only listened to his songs on the radio and never bought his music.
Roy ranks with Elvis
@@DavidChoiniere yes but Elvis thought Roy Orbison was way better as he did Tom Jones as well but they all had those three had a lot of respect for each other Tom Jones Roy Orbison Elvis Presley
The only King of musc is ELVIS.
Roy Orbison had a Steller voice! and excellent storyteller songwriter.
"People often ask me how would I like to be remembered
and I answer that I would simply like to be remembered."
Roy Orbison April 23, 1936 - December 6, 1988
He was only 52 years old at the time of his death?! Wow! Gone way too soon!
@@TheChefLady4JC Yes sadly he is gone but not forgotten by his fans and those who knew and work with him.
Hi Drew. What a simple but profound quote. There is a saying I'm sure you know with several versions. "A person dies twice. Once when he draws his last breath and once when his name is last spoken". Fil is keeping the flame burning with his videos for so many musical artists.
@@aprils6589 Oops I accidently deleted my reply comment to you 😟 wishing you a wonderful rest of the week my friend 😊💚✌
@@drewpall2598 I read your reply right after I was notified. Thank you for being so considerate by sending this messge.
I’ve loved Roy Orbison since I first heard “
Only the Lonely” when I was 12 or 13. I am now an old lady of 74!!!❤️❤️❤️ He is truly one of a kind.😍😍😍❣️
Roy’s voice was angelic!!
Roy Orbison was truly unique in his voice. Sadly missed by fans all around the world. Plus he was a really good person.
Yes, so many people said of him, he was nice. He was a gentleman.❤
For me the most noticeable thing about Roy's singing is the step-less shift from chest to head voice. The range in 'In Dreams' is amazing.
Hi Fil, I was fortunate to see Roy on a few occasions and the thing I remember most was how Roy would sing out at the end of the crescendo section of a song and his voice would reverberate around the theater. I'm sure the mic had a bid of echo on it but still....it was unbelievable. Roy was having a resurgence before he passed...we can only wonder what would have been from this iconic vocalist.
Yes, I saw him too. Wasn’t a huge fan of his records but live? Chills - sorry that can’t really be captured so if you didn’t get the chance to see him in person you’ll never really understand.
He’s unearthly good.
Also, most people that think that crescendo means the sudden big part of a song - but the word means a slow buildup in intensity.
I think of a song like bolero, as opposed to a song like crying
I heard Tom Petty once exclaim that he would call Roy on the phone and it struck him at how beautiful Roy's SPEAKING voice was over the phone.
He WAS a machine...but with a ton of emotion factored in. Rest in Peace Roy😎
His speaking voice was quite different. You would NEVER expect his awesome singing voice was behind his benevolent speaking voice.
There will never be another. His life story was a living example of vibrato with the ups and downs he experienced. But it is great that the final years in the late 80's early 90's he was acknowledged and celebrated.
I heard him say in an interview years ago that if they wanted him without vibrato, they had to get him first thing in the morning. So that's just his voice! Thanks for your awesome insights. I have such a new appreciation for the work and the talent.
I became somewhat obsessed with Roy during college and did a project about him- one of my research books mentioned how he never seemed to move his lips or throat when he sang and instead relied on his diaphragm to "push" the words out. I later became a tour guide and I'll tell you, that method has saved my vocal cords over the years.
Roy Orbison had such unique voice & look. I love The Black & White concert; full of incredible artists like Bruce Springsteen, Kade Lang & many others but it was all about Roy and he was magnificent ❤ Great Breakdown Fil !!
A fabulous concert! One I can watch over and over.
@@CharronMcLeod Yes, fabulous indeed 😊. I think every musician, singer on stage was famous in their own right. It just had the right mix and the result was a magical vibe 🌟✴🌟
Another one of the great singers I grew up with & had his records. Roy Orbison had one of the most smooth powerful voices. He could sing real high falsetto & also low. Elvis Presley loved Roy's voice. Roy had lots of great hits in the 60's. In 1988, he co-founded the Traveling Wilburys with George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, & Jeff Lynne & they had a lot of great songs too.
Listen to early 1960's elvis presley.
"It's now or never" 1960, etc....
You will hear an effortless smooth sound, both chest and head voice. Powerful smooth operatic sound.
People who are not educated, don't know a thing about elvis's remarkable chameleon voice.
@@bradhuskers I had a lot of Elvis' records going back to the 50's Sun sessions.
@@dagmar.6954
Did you sell them?
Collectors pay top dollar for those records nowadays
@@bradhuskers Yes, sold our whole classic rock collection a few years back to a collector.
Roy was from my area in West Texas. When he was in high school he would come here with his band and play on a couple of the local TV stations on the weekends. My mother couldn’t stand his voice. Roy had already written Ooby Dooby and that’s what Mother called him from then on. “That Ooby Dooby is singing again. TURN OFF THE TV!” Fast forward about fifty years and I hired a Roy Orbison impersonator to perform at her 80th birthday party. She got a big kick out of it. I also hired a young bagpipe player because she hated bagpipes. He was quite good too and neither one knew that they were part of a cruel practical joke. I have always loved Roy’s singing. He wrote ‘Only the Lonely’ when he and a fellow songwriter were living here in Midland, Texas briefly in the mid-1950’s. In actual fact, he got his big break here about the same time when a young Elvis Presley, and a young Johnny Cash were doing a concert here at a local high school.
And I think Buddy Holly was from Lubbock Texas,best wishes Texans from your friends in the UK 🇬🇧🇺🇸🇬🇧🇺🇸
@@jeffsparey9585 Cheers, mate! Yes, Buddy was from Lubbock, which is 120 miles north of here. I am a Buddy Holly fan too. Paul McCartney is a very big fan of his. As you probably know, the Beatles borrowed from the Crickets when they named their band.
Roy was one of the great American singers. You know his voice anywhere. It's unique and distinct! Thanks for the analysis. My husband enjoyed it, too! ❤
What a fantastic voice Roy had and it is nice to see his voice analysed like this
During the Wilburys sessions, when doubtless many comparisons were being made, Roy told the boys in the band he was the only vocalist among them. Yes that's Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne, George Harrison and Tom Petty, not vocalists. They were 'vocal stylists' in Mr Orbison's book, a distinction illustrated by this upload.
That is truly Bad A##
I can't say if it's true or not since I didn't witness it. But I also don't believe they would've argued with him either. From what I gather, he was pretty much universally loved and respected among his peers.
Remember, The Beatles, opened for Roy Orbison.
If he said so, he was probably right. But it also goes to show you can be a great performer without having the greatest vocal instrument. Probably not many better examples than Bob Dylan and Tom Petty, who definitely are/were stylists and absolutely phenomenal at it.
At the time of his death, I remember it being said that in those sessions, all the egos fell silent when Roy sang, just in awe.
I have recently began watching your videos and GIANT KUDOS to you! I love that you are a "musician's musician"! It is delightful witnessing your reactions and seeing the joy in your face!! My late father loved Roy Orbison and was in awe of his voice! Roy being a fellow Southerner brought so much pride to my father as well to me! Thank you for assessing Roy and keeping his beautiful voice and songs alive! PEACE OUT! ❤👍✌🎶
I know nothing about music-but i know when i hear something I love, without knowing the technical reasons why. It is also very uplifting to watch Fil’s expertise and love of music. Rock Fil!
Roy has an amazing voice and I have known anyone who hits note straight on verbrato. What a natural talent. I think it's interesting to study voices to find out why they are so unique. Another awesome analysis video Fil. You always show great respect and enthusiasm with every one that you do. They are so infectious just like your smile 😊
One of my musical Heroes. I loved everything he sang. His voice was truly amazing and he was a man who saw lots of grief in his personal life. Thank you Fil.🎼🖤
This is your best video yet. Roy is one of my favorite singers! I must say though that when I put on one of your videos my wife rolls her eyes, she just doesn't get it. lol
And you're still married?
Saw him live in concert in the 60s. What a voice. Absolutely pure, powerful, mesmerizing. Took my breath away.
Roy Orbison was a masterful singer. This man inspired McCartney, Lennon, and Harrison!!!! One of the most influential of American singers who were the dominant voices of the 50’s, and early 60’s.
He was a great influence on the Everly Brothers ability to harmonize their vocals as well.
And a major inspiration to Barry Gibb, as well. In this video, you can see Barry's respect of/appreciation for Roy. th-cam.com/video/r1o666F27JM/w-d-xo.html
The interval leaps he makes, too 😮 - mind-boggling!
Unbelievable vocal gift - Roy almost puts me in mind of a male Karen Carpenter. You just don’t hear people with that kind of ability singing pop or rock!
Fil, didn’t realize you’d studied voice that much - great job of imitating Roy 😎😁! (not easy)
A couple of the studio session men on the Sky Arts Roy Orbison documentary said that there were virtually no retakes on a recording session. Roy sang the song and it was in the can. I believed it. Great video thanks.
All of us have experienced celebrity deaths that affected us, but when Roy Orbison died, I was moved to tears. I always loved his singing and songwriting and he had just experienced a big popular comeback with the Black and White Night as well as the Traveling Wilburys. He was at his second peak of popularity when he suddenly passed. It was extremely sad for me. But he left us with some absolutely beautiful recordings.
Thank you for this one. I have loved Roy Orbison since my childhood. The emotion that came through his voice/songs always moved me. Now I understand why. He had an ability to tell a story and have his audience connect with it. His song "Running Scared" is one of the best, if not THE best, love songs of all time. Not to mention he just seemed like a really cool dude.
You are really getting the best of the best…Roy’s voice is unmistakeable! That cry in his voice that only he could do was at a place where the voice breaks into real crying…such an unassuming person…I hope his music lives forever!
I believe as an addendum to my first remark that I believe it comes from great pain…he lost his wife and two young boys and I really believe his sorrow drenches his voice in these style of songs!
FIRST CLASS ANALYSIS! And, "Walk On"? What a totally underrated song and performance!!!
Roy is one of my all time favorites along with Beach Boys etc...I think even Elvis said Roy had the best singing voice
Good evening. I have hardly seen anything and I already know it's going to be a good one! It's in your smile!💜
🙂
I love how direct and professional you are, and how you dummy it down for us non-musical people just at the right moment. Very informative, educational, and utterly interesting! I have no talent whatsoever, but for some reason, I have an ear, appreciation or whatever it is... to decipher talent vs average or popularity. It's weird because I can't sing a note.
You've just provided a lot of insight.
I've enjoyed binge-watching your videos today!
When you isolate and examine these voices, it's a further acknowledgement of the skill we all sensed was there . For decades, Roy's voice was in the public realm. That Gothic, horror story life of personal tragedies he lived through shifted public focus away from his appeal and started to focus on his courage. He worked through it. You add dignity and celebration to a voice I've heard most of my lfe. Measureable and observable. Thank you .
These videos have become legendary. And then you do a legend. Magnifique. Merci.
I once had a cat that when ever Roy came on the radio or I put Roy CD/DVD on the cat would stop what ever he was doing sit down and listen to Roy's voice everytime with out fail then when the sing finished he'd go back to what he was doing. How magical was Roy's voice even Elvis said you can't better a Roy Orbison song and that's why he never covered one of the Big O's tracks.
I transport rescue cats as a volunteer. They are usually upset in the car. Roy calms them down.
@@pamvanallen3919 there certainly something soothing about his voice cats like.
You think the vibrato is a bit like purring?
You have such a lovely smile! I did decide to come back, I'm not sure I need my music broken down so much. I just love listening to it. But I enjoyed watching your reaction, mostly because of your angelic smile! All of the music talk went way over my head! So here's what I've decided to do, I'm going to come back once a week and check out one of your videos to show you my support and to see your beautiful smile. Thanks again!
Welcome to what a perfect example of a real and unique human 'looks' and sounds like. I don't know about the rest of you, but I vote to retain musical truth - musical spice is nice!
THIS is what I want to see and hear live or on a recording. Wonderful analysis of a fantastic and very unique singer, Fil. You're doing the 'Art' of music good. Cheers.
I absolutely love Roy Orbison's voice. Thanks for bringing the data and analysis demonstrating the more you know, the more amazing it is.
I so love your analysis Fil. ♥️ Roy was such an original. He scared Elvis he was so good. "Running Scared" still brings tears to my ears after all these years. Great job with the great one Fil.
Compare songs Elvis and Orbison recorded and Orbison is a joke.
Great commentary Fil. My mom was a classical pianist, my dad an old school swing guitarist. Interestingly, they both found Roy's voice incredible. I love how his 'imperfections' are recognized as his technical brilliance!
Pete, with those parents you’ve got to be one interesting person 😄
I have to be careful about listening to Roy Orbison. It’s so beautiful that it often makes me weep with a strange combination of feelings. Overwhelming admiration for his talent, and melancholy because of the emotional impact of his material.
Right! I am crying now and I don't know why haha My mother and father would listen to country and oldies which I didnt understand while I was listening to Depeche Mode and Ministry, but there were 2 that would make me emotional inexplicably which I now know why: Hank Williams Sr and Roy Orbison.
Me too.
Now I understand why I was always drawn to Roy! I always felt he had a haunting perfection in his vocals. After learning about his life, the pain and sorrow he lived through, it fit. Emotionally he had the ability to bring tears to my eyes, still does in fact. Roy is one of my all time favorite singers. Truly loved his songs and him. Wish I could have told him so. Fil, thank you for this!!
I have always loved Roy Orbison voice. Thank you for this and explaining this man's amazing talent in a way that I can understand better. Saw Roy live in Toronto Canada in 1974. He was wonderful.
Roy was a singing God. No other voice like his. RIP Roy.
Great analysis! I love Roy Orbison and really enjoyed this! What a voice - beauty, range, power and emotion, plus something extra. I can feel his voice, and I don't think it's just an emotional response. Chills with certain notes, not necessarily the highest or loudest ones, and tears without feeling sad. He was definitely one of a kind!
Love Roy Orbison! I love how he can bring his voice way up there, then drop. One of the very best voices ever!!
thank you for all you share and review.
ahhhhh roy orbison.... even as a teen i just loved him. hardly any can top his way of moving your emotions...he can make you have tears quickly and then make you release them right on que. def a singer w/lots of feeling and emotion. so unique... so missed.
TY! My new fave Channel.
👍
Roy is one of my favorite, the best. His voice i amazing, -a really miracle!
Thank you for your lessons
Greetings from Sweden
He was one in a bazillion for sure. So emotive, I can still remember feeling so sad for him, at nine years old, when I first heard Only The Lonely. 😥💜 I'm still loving so much how you're taking the time and effort to teach us why we react to singers the way we do, thanks Fil. 😊🤘
Thanks Fil, fabulous analysis! Don't think there's any artists comparable to Roy, he was so special, totally unique, gifted and a blessing for us all. Love Roy Orbinson!
Damn it’s great that you chose to look at Roy. Don’t see or hear nearly enough of his stuff these days. Incredible singer.
I saw your other videos and thought, I hope he's done orbison cause that'll be interesting. Was not disappointed.
Simply one of the greatest vocalist who ever lived.
When these gifted people were born they were sprinkled with Magic dust. 🎤🎼
Roy's voice is one of my earliest memories! It's awesome to SEE exactly how he could manage to capture a little kid's attention so completely with that warm enveloping emotional journey.
I saw Roy live in concert. I was standing about 12 feet from him in Tampa Florida. I will never forget how amazing he was.
I basically only watch these videos anymore to hear Fil sing. God, this guy is so talented. Why hasn’t the whole world heard of Fil?
😂
Powerful voice. Gives me the chills.
Another brilliant analysis of a true legend,well done Fil
Fil I can remember a story about Roy Orbison when he was first recording. The engineer give him the song he went in the booth and sort of mumbled it, the engineer thought man we're in trouble, and then the greatest sound he ever heard happen when you replay the track and Roy sang
Roy was the best singer I have ever heard. He performed at a club an hour's drive away, but I was too tired to go. He died a few weeks later. I was upset!
Thank you dearest Fil, for covering and assessing the great Roy Orbison. He was great with the Traveling Wilburys.
Elvis Presley said Roy Orbison's voice was the greatest and most distinctive he had ever heard.
An exceptional range and also a great songwriter. Unique talent.
Elvis said there was one singer he would Never do a Cover of, & that was Roy Orbison …. Elvis’s reason for saying this? …. He said it was because he would not have been able to improve on any song sang by Roy. When he was offered one of Roy’s songs, he turned it down. He said he loved Roy’s voice. In hindsight, perhaps he should have done a Cover of it, because Roy was down on his luck at that time, & the royalties of record sales made by Elvis’ adoring fans, would have come in very handy for Roy, at that time. They met up with one another in Vegas, having not seen each other in more than ten years, & they were excited to be seeing one another again. Roy enjoyed seeing Elvis perform in Vegas, & they spent time chatting together after Elvis’ concert, catching up as old friends do. Roy had an exceptional & unique voice.
Thanks for doing Roy! His music makes my heart 💜 melt.
More more more Roy please...he is just the best... could you please present his voice several more times ...this was the very best presentation given thank you
Roy Orbison was a very talented singer so verbrato and clear wow he’s amazing
Love Fil, didn’t realize how much I was missing, thanks Fil. 😊
When you put a band together with the likes of George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty and Jeff Lynn, how could some other guy be the headliner. But Roy was. When Bruce Springsteen was the world's foremost performer, no-one could touch him...except Roy, who he adored and happily played second fiddle and was honored to do so. Oh Roy!
I watched an interview back in the early 90's with George, Tom, and Jeff talking about how they were so excited that Roy said yes to joining the "Traveling Wilburys"! Like these legends in music were fan girling over Roy Orbison is testament how Roy had a voice and talent from out of this world.
Hence the great performance video … The Black and White Night.?.. there was some talent on stage, and in the audience.
Hahaha !
Springsteen is not a great singer
@@Fakeaorta I guess it's not that unbelievable that Del Shannon committed suicide rather than attempting to replace him...
And he never moved his lips😎
Great explanation Fil. Knowing more about the special qualities of his voice only adds to our enjoyment.
You would make a fantastic instructor for students wanting to learn about music, separate from lessons 💛
I think he's doing that with these wonderful videos. They're fascinating, aren't they?
IMHO, outside of people in the know about music, Roy is so underappreciated. He truly had the ability to sing without any effort. Some people make it look effortless but Roy was just able to do it without thinking about it and his voice has so much emotion and tension in it that your felt every note. Great analysis and loving learning through the visual mechanics of the pitch recognizing software. Thank you, Fil.
Thanks for doing this, Fil, the Big O was one of a kind and people like you are ensuring he will long be remembered. Good onya, mate.
I appreciate the fact that you appreciate good music and that you break it down to how they are singing or playing.
Amazing! Roy has always been one of my favorite vocalists because of his range combined with his tone. So unique!
Hey my friend appreciate you taking the time to do these Elvis Presley said Roy had the greatest voice he ever heard.
I will suggest that you should try Doug Church they call him the voice of Elvis he’s a tribute artist.