Roy Orbison – Only The Lonely

“Only the Lonely” is a classic song performed by American singer Roy Orbison. It was released as a single in 1960 and became one of Orbison’s signature songs. The song was written by Roy Orbison and Joe Melson and produced by Fred Foster. It is often referred to as “Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel).”

Here are some key details about the song:

1. **Release and Chart Performance**: “Only the Lonely” was released on May 25, 1960. It quickly became a commercial success, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It also performed well on the UK Singles Chart.

2. **Musical Style**: The song is known for its dramatic and melancholic melody, which is characteristic of Roy Orbison’s style. It features Orbison’s distinctive and powerful tenor voice, which adds to the emotional depth of the song. The arrangement includes prominent use of strings, which enhances the overall mood.

3. **Lyrics**: The lyrics of “Only the Lonely” tell the story of heartbreak and loneliness. The singer expresses the feeling of being isolated and unloved after a romantic breakup. The refrain, “Only the lonely can play,” emphasizes the idea that only those who have experienced deep loneliness can truly understand the pain.

4. **Legacy**: “Only the Lonely” is considered one of the greatest songs in the history of rock and roll and pop music. It is often cited as a classic example of Orbison’s ability to convey powerful emotions through his music. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years and has been featured in various films and television shows.

5. **Recognition**: Roy Orbison’s performance of “Only the Lonely” earned him critical acclaim and helped establish him as a prominent artist in the early 1960s. The song also contributed to his reputation as a masterful balladeer.

6. **Album**: The song was included on Roy Orbison’s album “Lonely and Blue,” released in 1961. This album further solidified Orbison’s status as a talented singer and songwriter.

“Only the Lonely” remains a timeless classic that continues to be cherished by music enthusiasts and is a significant part of Roy Orbison’s musical legacy.

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