A Music Legend Born 90 Years Ago Still Shapes Sound Today

Roy Orbison was born 90 years ago today on April 23, 1936. With his soaring vocals and emotional ballads, Orbison carved out a style that set him apart from his peers and would go on to become one of the most distinctive voices in music history.

He scored a massive global hit in 1964 with "Oh, Pretty Woman," which topped the charts in both the U.S. and the U.K. But that song was just one of many successes. Over the course of his career, Orbison landed more than 20 Top 40 hits in the United States and over 30 in the United Kingdom, building a catalog that continues to resonate decades later.

From Texas Roots to Rock and Roll Fame

Raised in Texas, Orbison began performing as a teenager in a rockabilly and country band. His early talent led him to Sun Records in Memphis, where he joined a roster that helped shape the future of rock and roll.

But it was his ability to blend vulnerability with powerful vocal delivery that truly set him apart, influencing generations of artists across genres.

A Late-Career Supergroup Moment

In the final chapter of his career, Orbison joined the supergroup Traveling Wilburys alongside legends like George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Jeff Lynne. Their 1988 single "Handle With Care" became a standout hit and introduced Orbison to a new generation of listeners.

Orbison died on Dec. 6, 1988, but his influence has never faded. Known for his signature dark sunglasses and unmistakable voice, he remains one of the most iconic and enduring figures in popular music.

Ninety years after his birth, his songs-and the emotion behind them-still strike a chord.

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This story was originally published April 23, 2026 at 12:00 AM.