Roy Orbison, a name synonymous with operatic vocals and heartbreaking ballads, cemented his place in music history with the 1960 release of “Only the Lonely (Know the Way I Feel).” Orbison, known for his distinctive dark sunglasses and incredibly powerful tenor voice, emerged from the rockabilly scene of the 1950s, but quickly carved his own niche with his dramatic storytelling and emotionally raw performances. While initially a songwriter for other artists, Orbison’s unique vocal talent and intensely personal songwriting style propelled him to stardom.
“Only the Lonely,” co-written with Joe Melson, became his first major hit, soaring to number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topping charts in the United Kingdom. The song’s success not only launched Orbison into the mainstream but also helped define the signature sound he became famous for: sweeping orchestral arrangements, soaring falsetto vocals, and lyrics steeped in longing and unrequited love. Its innovative use of timpani and a dramatic, almost cinematic arrangement set it apart from the pop music of the time.
The song’s meaning revolves around the profound ache of loneliness and the feeling of isolation that comes from experiencing heartbreak. The lyrics depict a man consumed by the loss of his love, lamenting that only others who have suffered the same pain can truly understand the depth of his despair.
“Only the Lonely” resonated deeply with audiences, especially those experiencing the pangs of first love and loss. Listeners praised Orbison’s ability to articulate feelings of vulnerability and heartbreak with such sincerity and power. The song became an anthem for the lovelorn, solidifying Orbison’s image as the “Caruso of Rock” and demonstrating the enduring power of his emotional and masterful performance. It continues to be regarded as one of the greatest and most influential songs of the rock and roll era.