About the Song
Roy Orbison, the man with the velvet voice. We all remember him for those powerful ballads, his voice soaring over lush orchestration, pouring his heart out about love and loss. Today, we’re going to take a listen to a lesser-known gem from his catalogue, a song called “The Crowd”.
Released in 1962, this was a time when Orbison was truly hitting his stride. He’d already had some success with songs like “Crying” and “Only the Lonely,” and his signature dramatic style was captivating audiences. “The Crowd” might not be one of his biggest hits, but it’s a fascinating song that gives us a glimpse into a different side of the Orbison persona.
This isn’t a heart-wrenching ballad. Instead, it’s a more uptempo, rock-tinged number. Orbison’s voice still has that power, but it’s used with a bit more grit here. The lyrics paint a picture of a performer lost in the sea of faces before him, questioning the connection with the adoring crowd. It’s a thought-provoking contrast to the usual Orbison themes of devotion and heartbreak.
So, if you’re familiar with Roy Orbison’s greatest hits, but you’re looking to explore a bit deeper, then “The Crowd” is a perfect place to start. It’s a song that showcases his incredible vocal talent in a fresh light, and it offers a glimpse into the complex emotions that might have swirled beneath that iconic persona.
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