About the song
“End of the Line” is a poignant and nostalgic song that marks the culmination of the Traveling Wilburys’ debut album, Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1. Released in October 1988, the song was also issued as the band’s second single in January 1989. This iconic track features the collective talents of five legendary musicians – George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison, Tom Petty, and Bob Dylan – who came together to form the supergroup.
The song’s recording is a masterclass in vocal harmonies, with each member taking turns singing the choruses. George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, and Roy Orbison deliver the soaring choruses, while Tom Petty brings his distinctive vocals to the verses. The song’s lyrics, mainly written by George Harrison, are a poignant reflection on the passing of time and the fleeting nature of life. The song’s title, “End of the Line,” is a metaphor for the end of an era, the final stop on a journey that has taken the listener on a nostalgic ride through the highs and lows of life.
Musically, “End of the Line” is a beautiful blend of rock, pop, and country influences, with each member bringing their unique style to the table. The song’s production is characterized by lush harmonies, jangly guitars, and a memorable melody that has become synonymous with the Traveling Wilburys’ signature sound. With its timeless themes and memorable melody, “End of the Line” remains a beloved classic in the Traveling Wilburys’ discography, a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring legacy of these five musical legends.
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Lyrics
Well, it’s all right riding around in the breeze
Well, it’s all right if you live the life you please
Well, it’s all right doing the best you can
Well, it’s all right as long as you lend a hand
You can sit around and wait for the phone to ring (at the end of the line)
Waiting for someone to tell you everything (at the end of the line, of the line)
Sit around and wonder what tomorrow will bring (at the end of the line)
Maybe a diamond ring
Well, it’s all right even if they say you’re wrong
Well, it’s all right, sometimes you gotta be strong
Well, it’s all right as long as you got somewhere to lay
Well, it’s all right, every day is Judgment Day
Maybe somewhere down the road aways (at the end of the line)
You’ll think of me and wonder where I am these days (at the end of the line, of the line)
Maybe somewhere down the road when somebody plays (at the end of the line)
Purple haze
Well, it’s all right even when push comes to shove
Well, it’s all right if you got someone to love
Well, it’s all right, everything’ll work out fine
Well, it’s all right, we’re going to the end of the line
Don’t have to be ashamed of the car I drive (at the end of the line)
I’m just glad to be here, happy to be alive (at the end of the line, of the line)
It don’t matter if you’re by my side (at the end of the line)
I’m satisfied
Well, it’s all right even if you’re old and gray
Well, it’s all right, you still got something to say
Well, it’s all right, remember to live and let live
Well, it’s all right, the best you can do is forgive
Well, it’s all right (all right), riding around on the breeze
Well, it’s all right (all right), if you live the life you please
Well, it’s all right, even if the sun don’t shine
Well, it’s all right (all right), we’re going to the end of the line