Oh, Pretty Woman

Roy Orbison | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : March 23, 2025

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Who is Roy Orbison?

Roy Orbison was an iconic American singer-songwriter born on April 23, 1936, in Vernon, Texas. He formed his first band at just 13 years old and showcased an exceptional talent for music from an early age. Orbison's distinctive voice and emotive ballads like "Only the Lonely," "Crying," and "Oh, Pretty Woman" catapulted him to fame during the early 1960s, making him one of the most influential figures in rock music. His unorthodox style and poignant lyrics resonated deeply with audiences, allowing him to carve a unique niche as a vulnerable artist during a time when rock and roll often emphasized bravado and aggression.

Although his peak fame came in the 1960s, Orbison's career was marked by both triumph and tragedy. The deaths of his wife and two sons in the late 1960s led to a significant decline in his career as he faced personal devastation. After a hiatus, he made a remarkable comeback in the 1980s, teaming up with fellow musicians in the supergroup The Traveling Wilburys and receiving new recognition for his work. Orbison was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest vocal talents in music history. He passed away from a heart attack on December 6, 1988, leaving behind a lasting impact on the world of rock music.

Early Life and Education

Roy Kelton Orbison was born on April 23, 1936, in Vernon, Texas, to a working-class family that instilled in him a deep appreciation for various musical genres. From a young age, he showed a remarkable affinity for music, receiving a guitar as a gift for his sixth birthday. This early encouragement allowed him to write his first song, "A Vow of Love," at just eight years old. Orbison's formative years were enriched by diverse musical influences ranging from rockabilly and country to blues and Tex-Mex, laying the groundwork for his distinctive style that would ultimately resonate with millions.

Orbison's musical journey took a significant turn during his teenage years when he formed his first band at the age of 13. While he was enrolled in college, his passion for music led him to drop out to pursue a career in entertainment. He earned attention on the local circuit playing with the group Teen Kings, ultimately leading to an invitation from Sam Phillips at Sun Records to record tracks. This collaboration resulted in Orbison's first minor hit, "Ooby Dooby," showcasing his early potential and setting the stage for his remarkable career as a singer-songwriter.

Career Beginnings and Breakthrough Hits

Roy Orbison's musical journey began at a young age when he formed his first band at just 13 years old. After dropping out of college to pursue a career in music, Orbison took his first significant steps into the industry with his group, the Teen Kings. Their track "Ooby Dooby," which caught the attention of legendary producer Sam Phillips at Sun Records, marked his entry into the professional music world. This collaboration produced a re-recording of the song, which became Orbison's first minor hit, paving the way for further success.

In 1960, Orbison signed with Monument Records, where he began to refine his distinct sound. His breakthrough came with the release of "Only the Lonely," a song he initially pitched to both Elvis Presley and the Everly Brothers, only to be turned down. Undeterred, Orbison recorded it himself, showcasing his remarkable three-octave range and operatic style. The song climbed to number two on the Billboard singles chart, establishing him as a significant force in rock music. Between 1960 and 1965, he delivered nine Top 10 hits, including iconic tracks like "Crying," "It's Over," and "Oh, Pretty Woman," further solidifying his reputation as an innovative songwriter and performer.

Success and Achievements in Music

Roy Orbison’s musical career took flight after signing with Monument Records in 1960, where he began to refine the distinctive sound that would define his legacy. His big break came with the release of "Only the Lonely," which showcased his operatic vocal style and unique songwriting approach. This track soared to No. 2 on the Billboard singles chart, setting the stage for a series of hits that included "Crying," "It's Over," and the iconic "Oh, Pretty Woman." Over the next five years, he amassed a remarkable catalog, with nine Top 10 hits and another ten landing in the Top 40. His songs often broke traditional song structures, emphasizing his innovative approach to music composition.

Despite facing personal tragedies, including the loss of his wife and two sons, Orbison made a triumphant return to the music scene in the 1980s. His performance alongside the Eagles on their "Hotel California" tour and the Grammy-winning duet with Emmylou Harris, "That Lovin' You Feeling Again," reestablished his connection with fans. Orbison also achieved renewed popularity when Van Halen covered "Oh, Pretty Woman," which introduced his work to a new generation. By the late 1980s, he had joined the supergroup The Traveling Wilburys and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, cementing his place in music history right before his untimely death in 1988.

Personal Life: Married Life and Children

Roy Orbison experienced profound joys and devastating tragedies throughout his personal life. He married his first wife, Claudette Frady, in 1957. The two initially met when Claudette was a teenager, and their relationship became a significant influence on Orbison's music. She inspired Orbison’s hit song, "Claudette." Sadly, their marriage faced a tragic turn when Claudette was killed in a motorcycle accident in 1966, an event that deeply affected Orbison both personally and professionally. This loss marked the beginning of a difficult period in his life, impacting his music career and emotional well-being.

Orbison's family life was further complicated when tragedy struck again in 1968, as he lost his two eldest sons, Roy Jr. and Anthony, in a house fire. These heart-wrenching experiences shadowed his personal life, contributing to the emotional depth of his music while leaving him in a prolonged state of grief. Despite these hardships, Orbison would later find love again. He married his second wife, Barbara, in 1969, and they had two sons together, whom he raised with deep affection. His family became an essential support system that helped him endure the trials and tribulations he faced throughout his life.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary Details

Roy Orbison, an iconic figure in rock and pop music, amassed considerable wealth during his illustrious career. His unique distinct vocals, songwriting talent, and contributions to the music industry have made him a lasting influence. While specific numbers surrounding his net worth at the time of his passing in 1988 are challenging to ascertain, estimates suggest it ranged in the millions. Revenue streams were generated not only from his record sales, which included classics like "Oh, Pretty Woman" and "Crying," but also from various publishing deals and royalties.

In addition to his commercial success, Orbison's collaborations with other artists, such as his memorable duet with Emmylou Harris and his role in the supergroup The Traveling Wilburys, showcased his enduring appeal. This not only revived interest in his music but also contributed to his earnings. His comeback album, "Mystery Girl," posthumously reached No. 5 on the charts, illustrating his enduring legacy and continued profitability. At the time of his death, Orbison's lasting influence and popular catalog positioned him well within the industry, allowing for ongoing revenue from his musical contributions.