Roy Orbison (April 23, 1936 – December 6, 1988) was an American singer-songwriter known for his distinctive voice, complex song structures, and emotionally charged ballads. Born in Vernon, Texas, he rose to fame in the 1960s with hits like "Only the Lonely," "Crying," "In Dreams," and "Oh, Pretty Woman." His music blended rock, pop, and country with a unique operatic style, characterized by his powerful, wide-ranging voice and dark, introspective lyrics.

Orbison's early career included work with Sun Records in the 1950s, alongside artists like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash, but he found major success with Monument Records in the 1960s. His songs often explored themes of heartbreak and longing, delivered with a vulnerable yet commanding vocal style. Despite personal tragedies, including the loss of his first wife, Claudette, in a 1966 motorcycle accident and two of his children in a 1968 house fire, Orbison continued to create music that resonated deeply with audiences.

In the 1980s, he experienced a career resurgence, collaborating with the Traveling Wilburys, a supergroup featuring Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, and Tom Petty. His 1987 live performance, Roy Orbison and Friends: A Black and White Night, showcased his enduring talent. Orbison's music influenced artists across genres, from Bruce Springsteen to k.d. lang.

He died of a heart attack at 52, but his legacy endures through his timeless songs and inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1987) and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. His work continues to be celebrated for its emotional depth and innovative style.