Born on this day April 23, 1936 in Vernon, Texas, Roy Orbison was a legendary musician whose impact on modern music cannot be overstated. Known for his distinctive vocal style and emotive songwriting, Orbison’s influence can be heard in countless artists across genres.
Roy Orbison’s distinctive vocal style, characterized by his soaring falsetto and operatic range, was a major influence on many artists who came after him. His ability to convey emotion through his voice, particularly in his ballads, set a new standard for vocal performance in popular music. Artists like Bruce Springsteen, Chris Isaak, and k.d. lang have all cited Orbison as a major influence on their own vocal styles. Even contemporary artists like Lana Del Rey and The Weeknd have been inspired by Orbison’s unique sound.
In addition to his vocal style, Roy Orbison’s songwriting has also had a significant impact on modern music. His ability to craft memorable melodies and poignant lyrics has influenced countless songwriters over the years. Many of his songs, such as “Only the Lonely” and “Crying,” have become timeless classics that continue to be covered and reinterpreted by artists today. Orbison’s influence can be heard in the work of songwriters like Jeff Lynne, who collaborated with Orbison in the supergroup Traveling Wilburys, and Elvis Costello, who has covered several of Orbison’s songs throughout his career.
Roy Orbison’s influence on modern music extends beyond just his unique vocal style and songwriting abilities. He also had a significant impact on specific genres, such as rock and country. His use of strings and orchestration in his songs helped pave the way for the “wall of sound” production style that became popular in the 1960s. In country music, Orbison’s blend of rock and roll and traditional country sounds helped shape the genre known as “countrypolitan.” His influence can be heard in the work of artists like Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt.
Roy Orbison’s unique vocal style, songwriting abilities, and innovative use of orchestration helped shape the sound of rock and country music. His influence can still be heard in the work of countless artists today, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians. Orbison’s contributions to the music industry will always be remembered and celebrated.
Curated by Jennifer
