Introduction
"The Orbison Way" is the 6th studio album by legendary singer-songwriter Roy Orbison, released in January 1966 by MGM Records. The album includes a collection of twelve tracks, showcasing Orbison's emotive and effective voice backed by unique orchestral arrangements. Produced by Wesley Rose and Jim Vienneau, "The Orbison Way" even more solidifies Orbison's credibility as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
The album marked a brand-new chapter in Orbison's career as he had simply signed a brand-new recording contract with MGM Records in 1965, ending his relationship with Monument Records. It represents a transitional period for the artist, as he moved from his hallmark rockabilly and pop-infused noise towards a more polished pop sound that would specify his later career.
Track Listing
"The Orbison Way" showcases a series of songs, representing a mix of covers and original compositions composed by Roy Orbison and Bill Dees, his routine songwriting partner at the time. The album's tracks consist of:
1. "Crawling Back" - The opening track, and one of Orbison's many well-known tunes from the album, includes the vocalist's powerful voice conveying a sense of vulnerability and aching for a lost love.
2. "It Ain't No Big Thing" - This positive song, including a bouncy rhythm and catchy melody, is a prime example of Orbison's capability to produce dynamic, infectious pop tunes.
3. "Time Changes Everything" - A genuine cover of Tommy Duncan's country classic, Orbison imbues the tune with a moving, psychological depth that breathes new life into the original's familiar theme.
4. "This Is My Land" - An original composition with a patriotic theme, this song exudes a sense of pride and determination as Orbison sings about his love for his country.
5. "The Loner" - One of the standout tracks on the album, "The Loner" is a brooding, reflective ballad about isolation and alienation, showcasing Orbison's capability to stimulate deep feelings through his music.
6. "Maybe" - This tender love tune catches the sense of longing and hope that penetrates much of Orbison's work, with his skyrocketing vocals completely communicating the sensation of yearning at the heart of the tune.
7. "Breaking Up Is Breaking My Heart" - An ultimate Orbison heartbreak tune, this track features his special falsetto and melancholic lyricism that would end up being the trademark of his profession.
8. "Go Away" - With its positive tempo and catchy hook, this song makes certain to get listeners tapping their feet and singing along.
9. "A New Star" - In this haunting ballad, Orbison sings about the bittersweet realization that an enthusiast who has actually carried on has ended up being a new star in another person's sky.
10. "Never" - Another heart-wrenching ballad, this song showcases Orbison's capability to express deep emotions through his skyrocketing singing variety.
11. "It's Over" - Perhaps the most popular track on the album, "It's Over" is a tragic and psychological expression of love lost, with Orbison's unique voice calling through the powerful chorus.
12. "What Now, My Love?" - The album's closing track is a cover of Gilbert Bécaud's classic tune, and Orbison's rendition includes a new level of feeling and depth to the currently moving lyrics.
Tradition
"The Orbison Way" may not have been as commercially effective as a few of Orbison's previous efforts, however it stands as an essential album in his discography, showcasing his growth as an artist and his transition into the pop-oriented sound that would specify his later profession. The album is a testament to his amazing talent as a singer, songwriter, and writer, with each track imbued with a genuine feeling that resonates with listeners even today. It serves as a tip of Orbison's tremendous contributions to the music world and his lasting influence on future generations of musicians.
Artist: Roy Orbison
Roy Orbison, an iconic American singer-songwriter, known for his emotive voice, unique presence and inspiring quotes.
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