About the song
Okay, I’m ready to put on my music aficionado hat and dive deep into Roy Orbison’s “California Blue.” This song, a bittersweet gem from his posthumously released 1989 album Mystery Girl, holds a special place in the hearts of many, and for good reason. Let’s explore why.
First, let’s talk about the man himself. Roy Orbison, with his signature sunglasses and soaring vocals, was a true original. He emerged in the early 1960s, a time of youthful exuberance and rock and roll swagger, yet his music carried a depth of emotion that set him apart. His voice, capable of reaching operatic heights, conveyed a vulnerability and longing that resonated with listeners then and continues to captivate today. Think of classics like “Only the Lonely,” “Crying,” and “In Dreams” – these were songs that explored the dark, shadowy corners of the heart, and Orbison inhabited them completely.
Now, fast forward to the late 80s. Orbison, after experiencing a career resurgence, was tragically taken from us far too soon. Mystery Girl, the album containing “California Blue,” was released just weeks after his death. It’s a testament to his enduring talent and features collaborations with some of the biggest names in music, including Jeff Lynne of Electric Light Orchestra, who produced the track.
“California Blue” itself is a masterpiece of mood and atmosphere. It’s a song about longing, about the ache of distance and the yearning for a place that represents love and happiness. The lyrics, with their evocative imagery of endless sun and rain, paint a picture of someone who feels lost and adrift, dreaming of a return to the California sunshine and the solace it represents.
What makes this song so special? For one thing, Orbison’s vocal performance is simply stunning. Even in his later years, his voice retained its power and expressiveness, and he delivers each line with a heartfelt sincerity that’s impossible to ignore. The melody, too, is both haunting and beautiful, with a melancholic undercurrent that perfectly complements the lyrics. And then there’s the production – Lynne’s touch is evident in the shimmering guitars and layered harmonies, creating a soundscape that’s both lush and atmospheric.
But beyond its musical merits, “California Blue” also holds a certain poignancy due to the circumstances of its release. Knowing that Orbison was nearing the end of his life when he recorded it adds another layer of depth to the song’s themes of longing and loss. It’s a reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of cherishing the moments we have.
In conclusion, “California Blue” is a timeless classic that showcases the very best of Roy Orbison. It’s a song that speaks to the universal human experience of longing and the search for happiness. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his music, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Video
Lyrics
Working all day and the sun don’t shine
Trying to get by and I’m just killing time
I feel the rain fall the whole night through
Far away from you California blueCalifornia blue dreaming all alone
Nothing else to do California blue
Everyday I pray I’ll be on my way
Saving love for you California blueOne sunny day, I’ll get back again
Somehow, someway but I don’t know when
California blue, California blueLiving my life with you on my mind
Thinking of things that I left far behind
It’s been so long doing all I can do
To get back to you California blueCalifornia blue
(California blue)
Dreaming all alone
(California blue)Nothing else to do
(California blue)
California blue
Everyday I pray I’ll be on my way
Saving love for you California blueOne sunny day I’ll get back again
Somehow, someway but I don’t know when
California blue, California blueStill missing you California blue
Still missing you California blue
Still missing you California blue