About the song
Roy Orbison – Only the Lonely (Monument Concert 1965)
If you’re a fan of classic rock and roll, then the name Roy Orbison is undoubtedly familiar. With his distinctive baritone voice and heartfelt lyrics, Orbison captured the hearts of millions and became one of the most iconic singers of his generation. One of his most beloved songs, “Only the Lonely,” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with listeners today.
Recorded live at the Monument Concert in 1965, this version of “Only the Lonely” showcases Orbison’s raw talent and emotional depth. The song begins with a haunting melody, immediately drawing the listener in. As Orbison’s voice enters, it’s clear that he’s pouring his heart and soul into every word. The lyrics, filled with themes of loneliness, longing, and heartbreak, strike a universal chord.
The arrangement of the song is simple yet effective, allowing Orbison’s voice to take center stage. The backing vocals add a touch of harmony, while the restrained instrumentation creates a sense of intimacy. The live performance adds an extra layer of authenticity, as you can hear the crowd’s reaction to Orbison’s powerful vocals.
What sets “Only the Lonely” apart is Orbison’s ability to convey such deep emotion through his singing. His voice is both vulnerable and powerful, and he effortlessly captures the pain and longing of a broken heart. The song’s simplicity is deceptive, as it masks the complexity of the emotions being expressed.
The lyrics of “Only the Lonely” are both poetic and relatable. Orbison paints a vivid picture of a lonely heart searching for connection. The lines “Only the lonely know the feeling, that emptiness inside” are particularly poignant, as they speak to a universal human experience.
The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless quality. The themes of loneliness and longing are as relevant today as they were in the 1960s. Additionally, Orbison’s powerful vocals and the song’s simple yet effective arrangement have ensured that it remains a classic.
In conclusion, “Only the Lonely” is a masterpiece of classic rock and roll. Roy Orbison’s heartfelt performance, combined with the song’s timeless lyrics and simple arrangement, have made it a beloved classic. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Orbison or new to his music, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
Only the lonely
Only the lonely
Only the lonely
Know the way I feel tonight
Only the lonely
Know this feeling ain’t right
There goes my baby
There goes my heart
They’re gone forever
So far apart
But only the lonely
Know why
I cry
Only the lonely
Only the lonely
Only the lonely
Only the lonely
Know the heartaches I’ve been through
Only the lonely
Know I cry and cry for you
Maybe tomorrow
A new romance
No more sorrow
But that’s the chance
You gotta take
If your lonely heart breaks
Only the lonely