The legendary Roy Orbison - Song writer extraordinaire! (Among everything else!)

Tonight we're diving into a live performance of 'Oh, Pretty Woman' by Roy Orbison in 1981!
Original video - • Roy Orbison on SCTV wi...
For more, check out my other sites! / wingsofpegasus www.wingsofpegasusband.com/ / wingsofpegasus Twitter - @wingsofpegasus Insta - @wingsofpegasusofficial

[@wingsofpegasus]

TIME STAMPS - 0:00 Intro 0:40 Performance 3:33 Analysis Start 5:14 Song Organisation 6:12 Live Quality 8:21 The Riff 10:28 Why does 'A' work? 13:48 Coupling Music and Meaning 14:46 Chord Play Through

[@nancyblumberg4612]

.

[@roystapleton699]

@@nancyblumberg4612 Nice response and review. When is WOP going to do Baker Street by Rafferty (RIP)

[@barbaramay1866]

He died before the Traveling Wilburys song “End of the Line” was released and if you watch the video, there’s an empty rocking chair that comes into view when Roy sings, and it is rocking. They didn’t forget their buddy, Roy, when making the video. Love all of those guys. Thank you for all you do, Fil. You are wonderful.💕

[@paulbfields8284]

My brother, Roy’s biggest fan, and I went to Cincinnati from Akron Ohio in 1975 ish to see Roy perform at a Car and Boat Show of all places for Roys 40th birthday. Roy wasn’t playing much out in those days and was just wanting to perform. There must’ve been all of 15-20 people there.. he did two sets. He came out on a stage twice with a band that was obviously studio MU guys. He’d tell them the chords foreach tune right before each song then turn around and start playing. It sounded just like the records.. we had tears running down our faces …my brother used a fake press pass to get into dressing room between performances and met and talked with Roy and he still has the pictures on his living room table.. many years later I would get tickets to go see him at the Front Row Theater in Bedford Ohio.. I couldn’t go at the last moment and my brother and his wife went. My bro is (Was) a professional photographer and took what would be the last pictures of Roy performing anywhere the night before he passed in his mothers arms. Those pictures were printed in every major publication in the world AP and UPI.. true story.. great choice my fine Brit Rock friend.. Roy was at the top of his career… again … when he passed. Wilburys and a new album .. he was flying high again. One hell of a way to go out. I’ve seen a lot of performances and he stands out as one of the best all time..

[@Mr.56Goldtop]

Crying always puts a lump in my throat. His vocal delivery in that song is so believable.

[@judithmagill1449]

Roy Orbison certainly had a gift, and who else can pull off that "rowwll" in Pretty Woman like him? Nobody. Rest In Peace.

[@dmbdmb3828]

Nobody. The other musicians with him just smile. Every time. Still do!

[@TheGamingJewYT]

Elvis once said that Roy Orbison was the greatest singer in the world, and Roy had a perfect voice. Hard to argue with such a statement. Long live Roy's legacy! Thanks Fil

[@RoadWarrior2006]

Roy was a complete genius, his songs were filled with loneliness and pain. They often had a linear structure, making them unique. Elvis said Roy was the best and I agree. My favourite Roy Orbison song is 'in dreams'. He was from a quality time in the likes of beautiful songs and harmonies like the Everly Brothers.

[@homegown1234]

When one considers Roy Orbison, his voice is so smooth and so wonderful you look forward to hearing this voice every time because he knows how to sing a song to make you want to hear over and over again. His song which is my favorite called "Blue Angel" was my favorite can hit those "high" notes better than anyone. Even though he's got a relax style he is incredible singer of songs like no other. He is also famous for his "Blue Bayou" which Linda Ronstadt sang this song and made it her own. Linda had an incredible voice and to hit those "high" notes like no one but Roy could hit them. This man could be an opera singer which is amazing from all those great singers of that time, he was just fabulous and why his songs would eventually become "hits" during the 60s, 70s and 80s. Love this man.

[@russelldawkins9094]

I do appreciate how broad your appreciation is of a wide variety of musicians and musical styles. Thanks for your work. An anecdote demonstrating Roy’s character: I live in Victoria BC Canada and in around 1963 when I was 19 years old and Roy was pretty much at the peak of his career, having released Crying two years earlier, he was advertised to perform in a tiny community hall in the very small town of Ladysmith, north of Victoria on Vancouver Island . I could hardly believe that such a major star would play in such an insignificant location and even though I wasn’t that big a fan I drove the 45 miles to see if this could possibly be true. To my amazement not only did he appear, but put on a great show to the packed room of perhaps only 200 people. He performed as if to 10,000 people. I was also surprised to see him play the harmonica part on some tunes, as well as his guitar - not as a prop, but really play. I was impressed at his musicianship, his professionalism and his generosity of heart to, at the peak of his career, go to a tiny venue in the middle of nowhere and give it his all. RIP, Roy, you really were one of a kind.

[@nordsturm9376]

There are a handful of riffs that are recognized all around the world. This is one of those riffs.

[@mlaursen]

No kidding. My favorite cover of Pretty Woman is from Bollywood: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bWG0oYFteduUgZY

[@barbaradownie3265]

MY FAVORITE SONG IS "IN DREAMS" 🥰🥰🥰

[@drewpall2598]

Roy Orbison could tell great stories within 2 to 3 minutes. Running Scared, is one of many Roy's songs I like. I can see it now Fil with dark shades on doing a killer version of Oh, Pretty Woman!

[@oneil4252]

Roy is one of my fav's, you are becoming one also.

[@CharronMcLeod]

Props to the backing vocalist here too.

[@Lee.Higginbotham]

Such a tragedy when he passed away. His big hit I Got It and being part of the Traveling Wilburys his comeback was cut short. His stuff on Monument is awesome! 🏃‍♀️ Running Scared is definitely one of my favorites along with Pretty Woman, Only the Lonely, In Dreams! 🎸🎸🎸

[@mmccartney6579]

Exactly! But it's not I Got It...it's called You Got It. Cheers! :)

[@robertakerman3570]

My elder sibling was a Hard Rock sort. He had a LP that was Roy's greatest hits. Of course the whole Fam loved that disk(disc).

[@theesbband]

However great Pretty Woman is, his song “It’s Over” contains some of his most demanding and meaningful chord sequences: and his voice: low tenor to counter-tenor without so much as a By Your Leave!” A great, great guitar player - you won’t see him on any list - a fantastic songwriter, a voice from heaven, a true live performer and the ability to be part of a group. On that subject, he almost saved the best until last with the Wilburies: great songs and a real smile in his voice: and what a line-up!! Not an atom of weak link. Rumour has it that George was in awe of Roy and honoured to play and write with him. When a songwriter and guitarist of that calibre - oh, and a Beatle too - reacts like that, then you know they there is true greatness in the room. I don’t think Roy ever wrote a bad song. A very close friend shared stages with him on tour in the sixties, and still speaks with astonishment about Roy’s professionalism, humility, stage presence and sense of fun. Another great show, Lord Fil of Vernon.

[@walterfechter8080]

"Ride Away" (Roy Orbison) -- for anyone who rides a motorcycle.

[@aprils6589]

Don't ride but love that song.

[@walterfechter8080]

@@aprils6589 -- After decades of being on two, I quit riding a few years back. I just build bikes now. Cheers -- W

[@aprils6589]

@@walterfechter8080 You're a wise man. Sounds so much safer. 🤘

[@KRISPHIL68]

Artiste complet. Voix exceptionnelle. Une vie bouleversante par les tragédies (mort de 2 fils, de sa femme), problèmes cardiaques. Un chanteur humble, timide mais à la voix d'ange. L'émotion est toujours au rendez-vous quand on écoute ses chansons. Merci pour cette vidéo.

[@TroyNaumu808]

Roy Orbison is the GOAT

[@hopeforhorses4903]

I know nothing about music but love how you help me see the brilliance of the musicians you've reviewed. You are amazing! Thank you for sharing your stunning abilities.

[@aprils6589]

Fil's analyses are so knowledgeable and positive. I'm not a musician either but he has helped me understand why I love certain songs and artists.🤘

[@cindypowers4993]

Hope for Horses and Apri S : Me too!l

[@walldogger1]

@@aprils6589 What a class act this reviewer is, God bless.

[@johnfoster4244]

Terrific song choice and analysis, Fil. One thing that I always thought was really cool: In early 63', The Beatles were touring as supporting opening act throughout England and a few other European countries for the likes of Helen Shapiro, Chris Montez, Tommy Roe, and others. However, the release of Please Please Me, From Me To You, and She Loves You caused The Beatles to explode, and soon concert promoters had no option but to place The Beatles as the headliner and the other acts as support. Even Roy, who was a huge draw in England, agreed to split the headliner with The Beatles. Interestingly enough, the audiences endured the other performers, impatiently waiting to get a glimpse of the now most exciting sensation from Liverpool. The only performer on the tour that elicited equal enthusiasm from the audience members that rivaled the Beatle "mania" was the man from Wink, Texas that performed motionless, hiding behind dark sunglasses to lessen his consistent shyness and stage fright. The sound of that voice just sent the kids into a frenzy. From Wikipedia: "On the opening night, Orbison opted to go onstage first, although he was the more established act. The Beatles stood dumbfounded backstage as Orbison simply played through 14 encores. Finally, when the audience began chanting "We want Roy!" again, Lennon and Paul McCartney physically held Orbison back. Ringo Starr later said, "In Glasgow, we were all backstage listening to the tremendous applause he was getting. He was just standing there, not moving or anything." Roy was the only act that could hold his own against the mighty Mop Tops. Once again, terrific content, Fil. Thank you.

[@Beatles4Sale.]

He wrote Pretty Woman on the back of the bus when touring with the Beatles. I’ve always wondered if John, Paul, and Roy sat together on that bus to talk about their songwriting. Fly on the wall for sure! Sign me up!

[@lordjs9726]

Did not expect this. I like it and I like this song. Heard it for the first time so many years ago.

[@davidhenrywall8619]

Great song great singer

[@bobbiewallace4008]

Great song. Great reaction. Great smile

[@wenbren]

Roy can do no wrong in my book. I love the tight drums in this version. Grrrr

[@dmbdmb3828]

So much. And, the drums! Madness.

[@NoNameneeded1984]

When asked where he got his singing style from Roy said it was listening to cowboys crooning in the evenings when he was a child in Texas....

[@cindypowers4993]

COOL👍🎶🎶😊

[@katherinea.rodgers8366]

I have revisited this. Thinking about him so much the last couple of days so I am spending all day finding everthing. He had the most wonderful voice!

[@paulwatson9217]

Roy Orbison was one of the most natural singers the world has ever seen. He sang with so much ease it was unbelievable, his song writing didn’t fit with standard song formats that was used back then or now but it works. He did it his way and thank god he did and that’s why he will be remembered as one of the very best. He was the must have member of the Traveling Wilburys according to Jeff Lynne enough said.

[@thinman8621]

Always enjoy your insights. Thank you.

[@eileenmurphy2019]

I try to catch PBS Roy Orbison Black and White Night whenever it is run. Great to see the next generation playing with him and at the same time in awe of him.

[@katiedid1851]

Great analysis. Heard Roy in 1987 in Portland. Everyone was up dancing and singing when he sang Pretty Woman. Yes, he was wearing his trademark shades.

[@lindsaymac01]

Thanks for doing this, Fil, the Big O was one of the all-time greats and his music deserves the recognition people like you give it. Well done.

[@rexvisitor44]

Awesome! What a voice.

[@knitwits1903]

One of my favourites.

[@suehollar2578]

I listened to a podcast of Roy's life last Thursday and I had no idea about how many tragedies he lived through. He just kept performing and touring even when he wasn't selling millions of records. And then his work with the Wilbury's made him famous for a whole new generation. Great analysis!

[@lynndow3185]

I was thinking about all the tragedy he endured as the song played. They call a lot of people legendary, but Roy really was.

[@cindypowers4993]

Yes, Roy was a legend

[@robertakerman3570]

@@lynndow3185 Hey Lynn(&Sue Hollar); where's a good source for Roy's background? 10Q so much.

[@lynndow3185]

@@robertakerman3570 I would start here...en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roy_Orbison

[@robertakerman3570]

@@lynndow3185 Fantastic. Must wait until tomorrow, it's 5 Hrs. past My sleeptime right now. I don't know how to express My thanks, except-10Q So Much!

[@marciahuehn2365]

Amazing job explaining the chords, progression and their connection to the lyrics..I am learning so much!

[@motorradmike]

Fil, I’ve learned so much from your analysis of the structure of musical pieces, my appreciation has grown exponentially. Thank you for sharing your amazing talent!

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks!

[@snowbirdcruisers3553]

Fabulous as always

[@juliestrom412]

Yeah George Harrison got him in The Traveling Wilburys . He was always fantastic. Sensitive man. God bless him for his gift to music.

[@aprils6589]

I love how the wilburys honored RO posthumously with "the end of the line". Makes me teary whenever I watch the video.

[@craenor]

I love the story I read that things were rough for Roy, money-wise around that time, and from what I read, George Harrison essentially said, "Oh, that's not a problem. We'll just write a hit song for you." Boom, "You Got It" releases months later; huge hit.

[@sharronbennett8990]

Loved him since I was a child! Thanks!

[@maggie2244]

Fantastic assessment and you’re such a talented musician yourself.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks!

[@TennesseeMelanie]

Such an amazing voice.

[@MsJoybird1]

I love Roy!

[@richardcrocker8048]

I like almost all his songs …. like the voice range in Running Scared

[@aubreynoftall3830]

Excellent!

[@Peter-od7op]

Love these vdo. I no nothing about music but iam learning ty

[@Fouremyleofceres]

Fil, Love your stuff. Don't watch enough. I am a big fan of Roy Orbison. 50 Music was more complicated than most folk realize. FYI, I have a picture of Roy Orbison hitting on my Mom in Borger, Texas. She was 14 at the time, but really pretty and he was an usher in a hotel, playing music, I guess, on the weekends. My Kids and family always said i was the love child between those two. However, I was the love child of my parents. Married until he died. Just a note, When I was a bassist in a Punk/New wave band in Cali back in the late seventies, I based my songs on that 3 chord rock of Buddy Holly. another Texas boy

[@johndrake3472]

I saw him at an outdoor venue 30 something years ago - he sounded just like this, a real pro.

[@joegeorge3889]

Roy was the man

[@RussellStClair-cy1vu]

Roy Orbison there's no comparing to his vocals much less the Power of his voice . Sound proof room ! Roy Orbison " Let me clean my glasses "

[@rookmaster7502]

And his falsetto singing was truly one of a kind.

[@walldogger1]

@@rookmaster7502 He seldom had to go to falsetto.

[@jaynine]

Fascinating & informative content. This is music theory/ appreciation made extra accessible.

[@thewolfdoctor761]

I saw him perform at Chautauqua back in the '80s. A great concert. I remember a joke he told : "I just got a request, but I'm gonna sing anyway."

[@angelacarleton9575]

Elvis Presley once said, "no one can sing like him but him since he had a gorgeous voice which Elvis said sounded like an Angel voice - because it was unique! What a "VOICE" it is true and love his delivery of all his music!

[@jangle4246]

So many great Roy Orbison songs, but my favorite to this day is "Blue Angel" (1960). What memories!

[@hainanbob6144]

Great song, great analysis. I also loved the energy of the tambourine player!

[@davidcantwell2489]

Yes! If PMJ has proven anything it's every song needs a tambourine guy.

[@hainanbob6144]

@@davidcantwell2489 I just love KZbin comments. Seeing yours I did some PMJ searching, believe it or not it took me four songs to find a tambourine player. Then the wormhole swallowed me and I ended up on "Gunhild Carling". I think I'd better stop now, the Commander-in-Chief says we have to go shopping!

[@Steve-cc8zg]

So many artists, and I'm not just talking about nowadays - they sometimes seem to feel they have to enter into the vocal olympics just to get people's attention. Make us say 'Wow, did you hear that?'. Roy never needed that, not that I think he would ever do it in the first place. But his totally unique voice and his perfect pitch made him something special. Now, I'm not going to sit here and say that I have a library full of his stuff and listen to it for days on end. But just like I did with this video, if there is something about him that shows up I'm probably going to watch or listen to it, because I know it's going to be good.

[@regnauldmortimer4952]

Classic drum fills

[@dmbdmb3828]

flawless.

[@randyzwieg8467]

Awesome! Not all music teachers are like you Fil. You explain things unlike others and your taste in music mirrors mine.

[@wingsofpegasus]

Thanks!

[@ronniewrong1539]

Agreed. I have noticed the same thing. And I watch hours and hours of music education videos. Fil's videos really stand out. Most of his videos run about 20 minutes. And I'd bet his retention is above 80%. Thumbs up! I really liked when he started getting out his guitar. It seemed like it might narrow his classroom size (so to speak) but he knew what would work. "Man's reach should exceed his grasp."

[@lynndow3185]

Amazing complexity going into what sounds so clean and simple to me! His distinctive vocal coming out of the radio is one of my earliest childhood memories. You're right, that riff would be just fine to listen to all day long! Thanks, Fil!

[@jeffhands7097]

Brilliant Fil! Another great explanation and analysis! Your genuine enthusiasm for music and musicians is wonderful and makes your videos always great to watch!

[@georgeedward1226]

Can't believe it's well over 30 years since Orbison died. Tempus fugit! He is one of the old timers I missed seeing play live. Did see Chuck Berry and Bo Diddley tho.

[@margeanblake4356]

Roy Orbison has always been one of my favorites ❤

[@naomiwarner7117]

I absolutely love Big O, one of the greatest singer/song writers of all time, thank you so much!

[@deedewald1707]

Consistent voice vocals !

[@TheKyPerson]

His concert film Black and White Night is so good. I love so many of his songs, but It's Over is one that can send chills through my spin every single time. What a magnificent voice!

[@sabocikotic7632]

Roy Orbison is immortal

[@Shell6424]

No one does the growl like Roy. I liked him in the Traveling Wilburys as there was an awesome collection of superstars whose voices complimented each other. The drumming in Pretty Woman is energetic and live. Thanks Fil, for your pitch perfect analysis.

[@tinalippincott9823]

Orbison was great. Loved him in 'The Traveling Wilburys"; a group I would love to have heard more from. Alas, only two original members remain.

[@robertakerman3570]

Too young to go(but We don't have that control).

[@tinalippincott9823]

@@robertakerman3570 True that!

[@ronpfeiffer9157]

What a genius Roy was

[@terryjohinke8065]

This is the song that made me endure 3 years of music theory ( no guitar) and those first 5 notes on the guitar making me work any job to buy a guitar ( Telecaster). Roy had the best voice in the business , male or female, and is still revered by most musicians. This song and Roy is immortal.

[@wilfredowaltermayetgonzale9478]

Around 3 hours ago I´ve listened "Pretty Woman" with lyrics! It´s proven good music is good music.

[@oinc7320]

Under appreciated by main stream, guy with a tough life, may he RIP. Occasionally popping up on SNL. Bono said you could barely hear him in rehearsals, soft spoken, then when the tape rolled totally different guy, Mercy. "She's a Mystery to Me", U2 song written for him, released (posthumous) album, Mystery Girl.

[@Drengl1]

I think the Traveling Wilburys “End of the Line” official video is apt as I dry tears over the loss of another great one-Gordon Lightfoot. In the TW video, Orbison is in cameo as an empty chair with a guitar while his segment plays. I love EOTL’s optimism, sort of like yours, Fil.

[@pamegan8735]

Fil, great Analyses!! Love all of his songs!! So sad that he passed away so young in life.

[@fergo7010]

What a legend i miss him, good shit Fill thank 👍👍🤘🤘

[@aaronlopez3585]

Great song by Roy Orbison a truly great artist. Thank you FIL.

[@francesharrisonchesney]

This is by far my favorite song by Roy but I also loved another song called I Drove All Night....Roy could sing any song from another artist and make it a chart topper... your analysis as always is on target, but as Roy would put it "You Got It!!"

[@egaeca1]

Is it the same song that Celine Dion made famous?

[@jimmycampbell78]

It was originally written for Roy. Roy recorded his version in 1987 but it was posthumously released in 1992. Cindi Lauper beat him to it and recorded/released her version in 1989. Celine Dion released her version in 2000 but thats way later, Lauper and Orbison had already had hits with it.

[@squaretriangle9208]

I love I Drove All Night and the video as well

[@dalem8332]

Great Melodic Classic #1 song. Loved Roy's unmistakable unique vocals and his songwriting style! Timeless stuff! Excellent analysis and demo Fil! Thanks!🎼🎶🎵🇨🇦🇨🇦

[@bettiegee]

I would really love to see you do k. d. lang. She did a duet of "Crying" with him before he died. I've heard her do it live and it's amazing. Also? Her version of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelulah"

[@thatsrich944]

Great live arrangement of this piece. Roy's voice is like butter on a warm slice of bread fresh out of the oven. Perfect pitch, perfect dynamics and the story, always at the forefront. So many of the greatest songwriters left us too soon and Roy was a legend. Cheers!

[@davidcantwell2489]

If the lead guitar doesn't sound quite right it's because the original version is done with a 12 string, which is what Roy was playing, sitting on the edge of his bed, when he wrote it.

[@jerryp7721]

Great as always Fil. Roy was about to embark on a world tour and do the entire Mystery Girl album live when his heart gave out. Like a tornado out of West Texas. What a force of nature. And will always love Van Halen for having the stroke of brilliance to cover Pretty Woman. 👍😊

[@tnmoppylaura5476]

Such famous 5 notes. Thanks Fil!

[@GeoZeppelin1979]

by the way, that transition from d minor to A in the middle is simply a work of genius

[@TedHaughawout]

Having had the pleasure of hearing Roy in concert three times (including his last one), I'll just say there was a quality in his voice studio recordings didn't quite capture - it literally sent shivers down your spine.

[@randomyoutubeperson6954]

Hello from Melbourne Australia 🇦🇺 I love how we can see your absolute appreciation for vocals and music. Also I'd love to see you cover Roy Orbison's song Crying. He's my favourite singer.

[@TraceyRolandelli]

I saw Roy 2 times in the early and mid 80’s as a kid, small clubs like this, before his comeback. Blew me away.

[@loisenochs4562]

What a voice Roy had! One of my favorite

[@lancerx1759]

The Caruso of Rock is a Stone Cool Legend

[@cindypowers4993]

Didn't really know who Roy was until the "Traveling Wilburys". Just when everything was coming together for the band, unfortunately Roy Orbison passed away..... His singing voice was perfection, gentle and commanding all at once 🎶🎸👍

[@drewpall2598]

Hello Cindy I recall when Roy Orbison passed away so close to Christmas. 😪 April 23, 1936 - December 6, 1988 Yet His music and memories live on.

[@lynndow3185]

Well put!

[@cindypowers4993]

@@drewpall2598 Drew, I know, I was so sad and depressed when he passed; I can't even imagine how his bandmates felt .... Peace and Love 🙏🤘😊

[@cindypowers4993]

@@lynndow3185 Thanks Lynn! Roy truly was an unforgettable gift to everyone on this planet! 😊✌️

[@aprils6589]

Love how the Wilburys honored him in 'end of the line'.

[@johngage1397]

amazing how great his voice was considering how much he smoked

[@bruceallen6016]

So many greats (including Roy) so little time. Thumb up.

[@GrafStorm]

Roy is a phenomenon who stands alone. Ty Fil :)

[@kopeinokai5370]

I love the way the drums are integral to the melody throughout

[@dmbdmb3828]

flawless.

[@mistergrandpasbakery9941]

Fil, I'm a bit surprised you had not done this before. Great job!!

[@austinteutsch]

I saw Roy 4 months before his death in 1988 in Austin, Texas. Just unreal. RIP.

[@BobBlarneystone]

"Music is a language." Indeed it is. And it is augmented language that incorporates emotion.

[@DavidB-2268]

SCTV did get some fun musical guest stars. One that stands out was John Cougar Mellencamp doing Jack and Diane as part of a Nutty Professor parody.

[@stevejohnson1577]

Mels Rock Pile! Awesome

[@katiezee2]

For info, especially to Americans - there's a YT video of Roy singing the national anthem at an LA ice hockey game (?? !) a couple months before he passed on. It seems weird to see him there but the performance is thrilling