Vocal analysis indicates Roy Orbison was a MACHINE!

[@Beruthiel45]

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.

[@angelicafreund8551]

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.

[@mikefairsea5898]

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.

[@maggielandow2686]

Yes! Exactly and I am the same as I am 73. He really was that good.

[@philt4346]

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.

[@OverandOutChief1]

That is truly Bad A##

[@mandolinman2006]

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.

[@marknarveson4853]

Remember, The Beatles, opened for Roy Orbison.

[@puttyputty123]

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.

[@EdMcF1]

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.

[@CrystalTwinStar]

I didn't care for his style of music but hearing just his voice was very deeply moving. There was a very soothing resonance to it.

[@brandicarson-fulmer5496]

Amazing! Roy has always been one of my favorite vocalists because of his range combined with his tone. So unique!

[@naomiwarner7117]

I've always loved Roy O. RIP Big O.

[@barbaradaniel9866]

Outstanding analysis and coverage!!!

[@SeaBreeze2247]

I got to hear him in person when I was 17 at a small venue in 1964, right at the time “Pretty Woman” went to #1. It was thrilling. My friend and I were right to his band, and he sang all the songs he had in his repertoire at the time.

[@eb4600]

Your Roy Orbison video analysis popped up on my into page. I am hooked!! Subscribed and sharing! What a unique idea for a KZbin channel. I became obsessed with Roy after seeing a documentary about Roy and his sons. My heart was broken, the tragedies he endured are horrific. It’s no wonder his songs are so emotional. It’s great that his sons are sharing their musical talents.

[@wavemusic1759]

Hey Fil. This a fantastic series you're putting out 👍 On the issue of e.g. Roy's getting on the vibrato right on the note maybe you'd like to listen back to , say, Pavarotti for comparison - classical singers' approach to voice is a bit different: when the voice is properly supported (appoggio) AND free, vibrato happens NATURALLY, it is not something that is 'made'. Also, many natural gifted voices, especially of by gone eras tend to have vibrato which simply happens (as opposed to 'manufactured' vibrato, sometimes forcibly made with jaw etc) and there is no trace of 'straight line' before the vibrato. Roy, Elvis, Tom Jones, all seemed to have the same type of vibrato. Sometimes you find that Tom or Engelbert Humperdinck do exactly what you mentioned: they FORCE the voice straight and then freeing it, let the vibrato happen at the end of the note. As I said, this a very interesting series you're doing and I for one would love for you to take up Matt Munro, Jack Jones, Solomon Burke and all of the ones mentioned above. Anyway, keep up the inspiring work you do and Thank You😊 Tim James

[@philipangelo595]

That was fascinating!! I love the quiver in a singers voice but didn't understand how it worked. I always loved Roy's voice but this song really exposes the operatic sound he could produce. I loved all of Roy's songs, he did some serious rockabilly also, but Leah and Blue Angel were my favorites.

[@hectormedina7198]

Priceless presentation. Thanks for sharing. Cheers!

[@jinglebe11rainbow37]

I’d love yo see one on Billie Holiday Autumn in NY. Thanks Fil, as always great stuff. Cheers from NOLA!! Yeaux!

[@georgeodajungle7082]

First one of these I've watched. I picked a good one. Well done. I'm going to find these most interesting I'm sure. I have a suggestion for analysis. Perhaps James Taylor or Michael McDonald.✌️

[@mickmcgrath2313]

Orbison was unparalleled!

[@johnwhelan9225]

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.

[@stevennunamaker3355]

Lol he was right

[@DanielinLaTuna]

“You should ask Roy,” that’s powerful

[@mlazNJ]

Bono wrote Mystery Girl along with Edge.

[@lovegodlivealoha3352]

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.

[@BarbaraMerryGeng]

I got chills … Thanks for the story share 👋

[@RobinMarkowitzcoolmedia]

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.

[@seed_drill7135]

Smoked like a chimney, too.

[@irinaarcher325]

It is very interesting what you said about Roy's song writing. He is very unique vocalist and melodist. Thank you.

[@RobinMarkowitzcoolmedia]

@@irinaarcher325 Thank you.

[@RobinMarkowitzcoolmedia]

@@seed_drill7135 😔

[@Hollylivengood]

Thank you. All of that.

[@bbb462cid]

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.

[@georgebowman3222]

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.

[@alysoneaston5539]

Agree, so glad TW were created

[@hallieorbison6329]

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

[@barbaramay1866]

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..😢💕💜

[@janschneider361]

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.

[@kathleennorton6108]

Pavarotti would be a fun to analyze.

[@ninjabluewings]

Goodness me your husband was one SUPER LUCKY MAN!!! he got the prime seat to see some of THE GREATEST LEGENDS!!

[@22lyric]

Jan, Luciano, Roy and Nelson Eddy are my two favorite singers in the world!

[@bobdownes162]

@@kathleennorton6108 He has been on this Forum.

[@itsmommy100]

So interesting! I love them both.

[@timfenton7469]

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.

[@jarosedufaut4872]

His voice is so beautiful in its sound and its conveyance if life and love

[@carlr2837]

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+++++++.

[@gregpanek523]

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.

[@rookmaster7502]

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.

[@gigig2492]

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. 😁👍🏻

[@ritag7306]

Oh my goodness-i said the same thing in recent post! I love Fil’s loving what he’s doing-he just radiates goodness!

[@linz716]

I agree and thinks he resembles Prof. Brian Cox, physicist.

[@sybillefandrich525]

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.

[@pookiepookie8669]

And you can feel the pain in his voice.

[@captainkangaroo4301]

If anyone knew suffering in his life it was Roy.

[@opera93]

Thanks…..!

[@sybillefandrich525]

@@opera93 Thank you!

[@5roundsrapid263]

Portamento is really a forgotten art. Roy was a master at it.

[@lucianorusso7598]

"Crying" is arguably his finest vocal performance in my opinion. Unbelievable range and breath control.

[@mimitaylor5938]

I would love to hear Phil's analysis on "Crying".

[@alysoneaston5539]

The best

[@weveri6]

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.

[@tylercass2584]

Don McLean does a magnificent version of “Crying”, also, and his version was praised by the Big “O”, himself.

[@cpklapper]

“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.

[@TSBS986]

I knew Roy Orbison was a phenomenal singer, but seeing his vocals broken down technically like you have done is amazing to see.

[@crankyoldperson6871]

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.

[@eddyf4426]

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.

[@maggielandow2686]

Me too.

[@joycejames8461]

Roy's in a league of his own, he wrote many of his songs as well. RIP Big O.

[@LightningDogg]

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😎

[@leecowell8165]

His speaking voice was quite different. You would NEVER expect his awesome singing voice was behind his benevolent speaking voice.

[@daniellebrothers3688]

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.

[@lulumoon6942]

What a lovely memory, thank you for sharing!

[@theglassmaster3140]

Nice. I saw Roy Orbinson with The Beach Boys, 1988 Akron Ohio.

[@doogthedog]

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

[@hallieorbison6329]

That wasn't his last live performance

[@katiedid1851]

Saw/heard him in Portland in 1987. Everyone was up and dancing when he did Pretty Woman. Priceless.

[@TorToroPorco]

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.

[@Victoria-ni3tf]

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!

[@cannacliffords7462]

Agreed. Its difficult to articulate, but Fil has so much unique talent in order to accurately explain and illustrate Roy's unique talent!!!☺💪🏾

[@pozzee2809]

Absolutely

[@whollymindless]

I didn't even know that I wanted to know it. How this analysis doesn't ruin performances for me is surprising.

[@Vinnie-cv5qv]

Roy was a legend. Such effortless singing.

[@Ella-iw7xn]

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]

A fabulous concert! One I can watch over and over.

[@Ella-iw7xn]

@@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 🌟✴🌟

[@denisearmbruster7478]

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! ❤👍✌🎶

[@ritag7306]

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!

[@StellaWaldvogel]

Roy was the gold standard. Back when Van Halen's version of "Oh, Pretty Woman" was charting, I used to see people actually get mad when it came on, lol. They hated it because it wasn't Roy. If they couldn't turn it off, they'd sit there spitting nails or making up obscene lyrics. I like the Van Halen version, it's fun. But David Lee Roth couldn't touch Roy.

[@HarmonyHomeInspectionServices]

When that came out it actually created awareness in me, 15 at the time, that this was a cover from someone else's song. So, to hear the contrast was extraordinary. Similar to VH's covering the Kink's You Really Got Me and Jimi Hendrix covering Dylan's All Along the Watchtower. Completely different renditions. I wasn't aware for years that Manfred Mann covered Bruce Springsteen's Blinded by the Light. The lyrics were so weird.

[@chipsterb4946]

We also hated it because it *was* David Lee Roth 😝

[@stevennunamaker3355]

No 1 could period

[@itsmommy100]

I remember well having to convince my kids that Van Halen was NOT the originator of this song!! Also, around 1990 my youngest son discovered a "new band" he thought I'd like...it was Pink Floyd!! My parents shared their music with me and I still love almost all of it at the age of 66. Nothing pleases me more than my "kids" enjoying MY music. Roy was indeed the Gold Standard. Exceptional voice and exceptional human being.

[@trcsunny2187]

@@itsmommy100 I use to love my kids would say, “mom, have you ever heard this before”. And it was a song from my youth. They thought I must have heard everything,lol

[@TheLifeandSadEnding]

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

[@orbyfan]

And you're still married?

[@BarkerT]

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!

[@Fakeaorta]

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.

[@davidtaylor595]

Hence the great performance video … The Black and White Night.?.. there was some talent on stage, and in the audience.

[@soundguy5813]

Hahaha !

[@vambo13257]

Springsteen is not a great singer

[@kenlieck7756]

@@Fakeaorta I guess it's not that unbelievable that Del Shannon committed suicide rather than attempting to replace him...

[@andyeaston8391]

Roy Orbison was truly unique in his voice. Sadly missed by fans all around the world. Plus he was a really good person.

[@lorrainecimino8508]

Yes, so many people said of him, he was nice. He was a gentleman.❤

[@davidholden4543]

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!

[@barbaradaniel9866]

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.😍😍😍❣️

[@martyndawson7484]

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.

[@perrineville]

Unlucky man, he could have been better than Elvis (in terms of popularity I mean)

[@tracyzimmerman7912]

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 😊

[@Buzzdog1971]

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.

[@tx.polecat]

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.

[@sdingeswho]

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)

[@DougMcDave]

I've heard him referred to as the Caruso of rock 'n' roll. What a beautiful sound!

[@grievousangelic]

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! ❤

[@kellycoleman715]

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]

And I think Buddy Holly was from Lubbock Texas,best wishes Texans from your friends in the UK 🇬🇧🇺🇸🇬🇧🇺🇸

[@kellycoleman715]

@@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.

[@Slydeil]

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.

[@davidharrison1523]

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.

[@adox26]

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.

[@jackvonewegen7656]

He was a great influence on the Everly Brothers ability to harmonize their vocals as well.

[@Pamsmith59]

And a major inspiration to Barry Gibb, as well. In this video, you can see Barry's respect of/appreciation for Roy. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qGLSZ2lse5dqgK8

[@drewpall2598]

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

[@TheChefLady4JC]

He was only 52 years old at the time of his death?! Wow! Gone way too soon!

[@drewpall2598]

@@TheChefLady4JC Yes sadly he is gone but not forgotten by his fans and those who knew and work with him.

[@aprils6589]

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.

[@drewpall2598]

@@aprils6589 Oops I accidently deleted my reply comment to you 😟 wishing you a wonderful rest of the week my friend 😊💚✌

[@aprils6589]

@@drewpall2598 I read your reply right after I was notified. Thank you for being so considerate by sending this messge.

[@Galantski]

Good one, Fil. Maybe Roy was _literally_ a machine, the robotic singer Orbitron 2400. Do you really believe a mere human being could do all of that? This is impressive AI, but they made the machine a little _too_ good!

[@johnf3305]

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]

Do you enjoy listening to Chris Isaak as well?

[@RSVPini]

@@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]

Roy ranks with Elvis

[@karenking5357]

@@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

[@kenhayes5759]

The only King of musc is ELVIS.

[@danielhamilton2157]

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.

[@pamvanallen3919]

I transport rescue cats as a volunteer. They are usually upset in the car. Roy calms them down.

[@danielhamilton2157]

@@pamvanallen3919 there certainly something soothing about his voice cats like.

[@nobodydoesithalfasgoodasyou]

You think the vibrato is a bit like purring?

[@bugaloo2836]

Roy’s voice was angelic!!

[@KathySong1]

Roy’s voice is absolutely one of the best.

[@brianmiller2739]

Roy is one of my all time favorites along with Beach Boys etc...I think even Elvis said Roy had the best singing voice

[@jasonbroad5478]

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.

[@Rocker9965]

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.

[@j_freed]

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

[@danmenzel7229]

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!

[@fauxtaux]

Do not even need to listen in order to thumbs up. Agreed! Roy was legend

[@ChrisM541]

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.

[@Mrs.Patriot]

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.

[@redbarchetta8782]

Elvis was floored by Roy, that outta say it all.

[@sooz9433]

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.🎼🖤

[@laryon]

Roy was a singing God. No other voice like his. RIP Roy.

[@roostercogburn6469]

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!

[@BossNerd]

I know nothing about this but it is fascinating to me. I always knew Roy was special - but never knew why. Is there any way you could do this with Melanie(Brand New Key)? She is the other singer that comes to mind that you immediately know she's special.

[@dagmar.6954]

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.

[@bradhuskers]

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.

[@dagmar.6954]

@@bradhuskers I had a lot of Elvis' records going back to the 50's Sun sessions.

[@bradhuskers]

@@dagmar.6954 Did you sell them? Collectors pay top dollar for those records nowadays

[@dagmar.6954]

@@bradhuskers Yes, sold our whole classic rock collection a few years back to a collector.

[@ColinGames974]

What a fantastic voice Roy had and it is nice to see his voice analysed like this

[@VegasLounge]

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.

[@debbers]

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!

[@Closertoofree]

Been waiting for Roy , can you also do something from Travelling Wilburys?

[@wingsofpegasus]

They're out here somewhere!

[@lilamuzik3385]

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.

[@mariogmajner6549]

Compare songs Elvis and Orbison recorded and Orbison is a joke.

[@spotsill]

Crying is a masterpiece 👍👍

[@mikecolie9290]

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.

[@ryll3]

Elvis once said "Roy Orbinson is the greatest male singer of all time". Starting to see why that was pronounced.

[@SW-ci9zv]

A Great ANALYSIS of such a Unique voice that we all recognize as Unique when we hear Roy sing, but it is so good to "see" the Uniqueness using the waveforms. As per usual Wings (Fil / Phil) does a fantastic job of explaining / showing this. Like the piano under the waveforms - Great idea and the different colour used for one waveform (I did suggest that idea in a comment some time back but won't take any credit for that suggestion). Thank you for this ANALYSIS. As an aside it is interesting to note that it was mentioned in the "media" that people were leaning more towards songs from the earlier years i.e. 50's / 60's / 70's. Perhaps people's ears are getting tired of the "manufactured / machine like" (and as Phil has shown) auto-tuned corrected stuff of many more recent performers. Just a thought.

[@lindamc7298]

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!

[@pgrahmmg]

Roy Orbison & Bobby Hatfield were so far beyond - above the rest of the pack.... Luckily, I got to see them both....Plus Elvis 2x.....

[@cliffedward]

I remember seeing Roy at the Civic Theatre here in Christchurch NZ in the mid 60's. I'd imagined he'd be straining to get those high notes,but no. He just walked out on stage and sang no effort. I do remember he had a flash mic. Thanks for the analysis.

[@likklej8]

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.

[@SpaceGhost67]

The man was a "machine" LOL. How did he hit such crazy high pitch so effortlessly? Compare Sarah Carter, "Farther On"

[@paulbfields8284]

Roy’s oldest son Wesley spent Christmas at my house in 2001. My brother took the last pictures of Roys last performance in Bedford Ohio at the now long gone Front Row Theater. I have a unique connection to Roy and yet no connection at all. I grew up with Roy’s music in my home playing much of the time, I can tell you for certain that the Beatles and Elvis didn’t like following Roy up in a performance because he was truly the King. There will never be another Writer, performer,singer like Roy again. Funny how I always thought I sounded like Roy while I was in the shower. Lol.. truth is NOBODY can sing like Roy.

[@margarettaylor8107]

You have it the other way around. Nobody could follow Elvis..After the audience all left Hank Snow, on stage chanting Elvis' name, to go to the parking lot where Elvis was signing autographs, nobody ever tried following Elvis again. You have no idea the audience reaction fans gave Elvis is..nothing but screams, pulling their hair out and fainting. Roy never got any of that. What Elvis feared was being ripped apart and chased by his fans. Fans chased him into a bathroom. All he had left was one shoe and a sock. He has been hospitalized several times due to receiving countless bites and scratches. When was Orbinson ever on the same stage with Elvis?..never heard about it ever happening.

[@paulbfields8284]

@@margarettaylor8107 elvis once told Roy that he was so good he would never appear on stage with him..and.. Elvis declared Roy the greatest voice ever to Roy’s face. The Beatles followed Roy in a concert once .. Lennon said later that they’d never follow him as an act ever again. He was that good. I’ve seen him three times.. I had tears streaming down my cheeks every time and I wasn’t even a huge fan… my brother was. Yea, Roy was the shit which is why The Boss once said he wanted to sing like Roy… but as he said he noted… “and NOBODY can sing like Roy. “

[@margarettaylor8107]

@@paulbfields8284 Paul, Elvis likely told many people the same thing. He was always so kind, gracious and humble. He always denigrated his own talents. Sure, Elvis loved Roy. Watch the 68 Comeback special and see if Roy could follow that. Nobody could. Elvis not only sang every kind of song but his stage presence alone was mesmerizimg. He was so gorgeous that even his family members said they could not even look at him or they would be staring. Every person who met Elvis, every person, said he was the most gorgeous charismatic man they ever saw. He radiated so much energy that even his nurse said she got static electricity the moment he walked into a room. His body was so lithe. He oozed rhythm in every pore. He was double jointed and even walked like a panther. Even his speaking voice was beautiful. He was so masculine and did karate moves during his performances. He had so much style and set hair and dress trends. Roy is super. I love his voice but upon hearing it, I never wanted to tear his clothes off. With Elvis, every female hormone stands alert. Elvis has a smooth velvet voice. Roy sounds effeminate mostly. Show a picture of Elvis to a child and of Roy. Who would they want to be? Not Roy.Barry Gibbs of the Bee Gees said every entertainer today would love to be Elvis. He did not say Garth, Jackson, the Beatles or Roy. Jackie Wilson said every black singer copied Elvis. Elvis not Roy, not the Beatles, not Jackson, was named by the Smithsonian Institute as Entertainer of the 20th Century. Even Pavarotti said Elvis can sing like me but I cannot sing like Elvis. He did not say Roy. Yes, Elvis could sing opera and had opera number 1 hits. Elvis' voice is so much fuller and richer than Orbinson's. Elvis octave range is 4.2 octaves. He sang bass notes..never heard Roy sing bass. Elvis is eye candy with the big voice and hyperflexible body. I never saw Roy dance. I know Roy cannot pick his genes, but he was dog ugly and looked like he was trying to be cool. He never achieved that. Again, Elvis and I loved his voice, but he and nobody else can compare to Elvis .For Heaven's sake, Elvis was the sex god to the world. I saw him in concert twice. Everyone stood in their seats, and screamed their lungs out the entire time. He is the entertainer's entertainer and so humble. It is clear you know so little about Elvis.. You should. He popularized rock music which was copied and copied over and over. Without his breakthrough music style, I shudder to think the kind of music we would have since him.Likely still be singing How Much Is That Doggie in the Window.

[@paulbfields8284]

@@margarettaylor8107 margaret.. this isn’t a contest. Roy isn’t competing with Elvis or anyone for that matter. We are simply commenting on the quality of one’s voice. When it comes to popularity and the ability to swoon the pants off a women.. Elvis all the way. But, in terms of voice quality, composing, writing… I’m confident that Roy’s got him beat seven ways to Sunday. As admitted by the King himself who never wrote a single song one of his own songs.

[@margarettaylor8107]

@@paulbfields8284 How many of their scripts did Tom Hanks and Meryl Strep write? You bet Orbinson was a better song writer. How many song writers would give song writing up to be Elvis? Elvis had the vou e every age loved.. hild to old..Even Roy. So what about song writing?Maybe Roy had wider vocal range. I do not know. Elvis could go much lower so that cancels out any of the higher Orbinson possibly could go. How many instruments did Orbinson play? Elvis' drummer said he played them. all..even the accordion. What about being a better song arranger and producer. Elvis was much better. The tone of voice. Elvis had 50 different singing voices..heard in his songs so many voices Orbinson sounded the same iall of n his..so much more versatile. He could even sing like Johnny Cash. Elvis's voice was rich, rich, warm, warm, velvet. Orbinsin did not have a rich full warm voice.Orbinson could not sing all the genres of music Elvis could..Elvis had a much more versatile voice. All those vocal utterances and ad lib vocalss..nobody like him. Again if all it took to be the best singer, then the more octaves the better. Others had more octaves than Orbinson.Likeky, though I would have preferred Roy's voice but then Elvis had so much passion in his voice. His voice ranged from sweet and flirty to gritty and sexual to emotionally spiritual to passionate love to fun and playful to whatever he wanted it to be. Yes, he had THE stage presence that was the same quality as his voice. When you looked at Elvis, you knew he would be all passion.Elvis is the number one soul white singer of all time..sold more R&R records by a white guy. .By the way, Roy, also loved and admired Elvis, vice versa. But Elvis helped him get his start and so did Johnny Cash. Elvis recorded 2000 songs. I bet you have heard maybe Hound Dog, Blue Suede Shoes, Jailhouse Rock. To better know what my cimments mean, listen to his Hurt, Reconsider Baby, How Great Thou Art, Tomorrows Never Come, From Jack to a King, It's Now or Never, Such a Night , Lil Darli ' for starters..all different voices with vocal twists and great power and range..just pure style .nobody like him.

[@latrelleodom9484]

That's why Jeff Lynne chose him for the Traveling Wilburys. Jeff Lynne has a great voice too. Love them both.

[@elgenetiamzon1062]

When Jeff Lynne called Roy's house to discuss Roy's next album, he bacame so nervous, he couldn't say anything and hung up after Roy's wife answered. He eventually managed to gather up the courage to call back and finally ask for Roy. He was such a huge fan.

[@VidarLund-k5q]

Jeff Lynne, the greatest one man band in the world.

[@craenor]

I absolutely love Roy Orbison's voice. Thanks for bringing the data and analysis demonstrating the more you know, the more amazing it is.

[@michelekurlan2580]

Now we know why Elvis chose Roy Orbison's voice if he could have had anyone else's voice.

[@stpnwlf9]

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.

[@58joana]

Good evening. I have hardly seen anything and I already know it's going to be a good one! It's in your smile!💜

[@wingsofpegasus]

🙂

[@rockywaters9592]

I so wished you'd have used his vocal for "crying" instead, he showcases his range so much more in that song, it's one of the very few songs I've never got tired of singing in the last 25yrs as a working musician.

[@orbyfan]

"The Crowd" is one of his least-known hits, but another one that shows his range.

[@SteveErickson-e8s]

I think "Blue Angel" also would have been a great choice.

[@VidarLund-k5q]

The "Crowd" and "Borne on the Wind" are not very well known. Great songs.

[@keithad6485]

What I always found amazing, is that Roy would hardly move on stage, hardly open his mouth, yet out came his divine voice.

[@katiekane5247]

Two artists that I've shared with my metal-loving 15 year old grandson, Roy Orbison & Mel Schecter. Somehow, their ability to be relevant to new music has made them "cool". His first Schecter guitar was aquired this year, he can really rip some licks! He still plays French Horn in school band & joined chorus this year. We have fun discussing voice as an instrument. To watch the deference of the other greats in The Traveling Wilburies gave to Roy still gives me chills.

[@johnrussell4954]

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

[@leehanson1416]

I'm 57 years old. Roy was a huge part of my childhood, given that my parents were so invested in him, as well as Neil Diamond. Roy was like Meat Loaf, there wasn't any effort besides all out effort. Neither one of them ever gave less than their best.

[@Gaeill]

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 .

[@lawrencetaylor4101]

These videos have become legendary. And then you do a legend. Magnifique. Merci.

[@mandybarnett3647]

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!

[@mandybarnett3647]

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!

[@solochristo65]

Roy Orbison had one of the best voices ever.......Of course not including people like Pavarotti or Domingo....... Chris Isaak kind of sounded like Roy sometimes.