Roy Orbison

By January 6, 1988, when Roy Orbison made a notable appearance on "Late Night with David Letterman," he was enjoying a resurgence in popularity, particularly due to the release of his album "Mystery Girl" just a few months prior in 1989. This album was significant as it contained the hit single "You Got It," marking a comeback for Orbison after a period of relative obscurity. His collaboration with Jeff Lynne, one of the Traveling Wilburys, also played a crucial role in this revival. During his performance on Letterman, he delivered "Mean Woman Blues," showcasing his timeless vocal prowess and connecting with both longtime fans and a new audience. This episode is particularly interesting as it also highlights Orbison's enduring influence in rock and pop music, exemplified by his recognition and admiration from younger artists like those in The Beatles and his peers in the '60s and '70s.

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