Did Roy Orbison Join The Traveling Wilburys with George Harrison, Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, and Jeff Lynne?

Often, questions arise regarding the membership and history of The Traveling Wilburys, a supergroup consisting of George Harrison, Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, Jeff Lynne, and Roy Orbison. Despite its fame, Roy Orbison was not a member of the band in the sense that the others were. However, Orbison was indeed part of the group's formation and contributed significantly to its early success. This article explores the truth behind Roy Orbison's involvement in The Traveling Wilburys and delves into the unique circumstances surrounding its creation.

Formation and Initial Success

The Traveling Wilburys came into being in 1988, when George, Tom, Bob, and Jeff gathered at Bob Dylan's home. The gathering was initially about borrowing and returning a guitar needed for the next day. It quickly transformed into a jam session that produced a b-side song. This happened in Dylan's garage or studio, and the song became the nucleus of the group's first album, "Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1," which was a significant success.

Roy Orbison's Contribution

Roy Orbison played a vital role in the group's initial formation. He was approached by Jeff Lynne, who had a deep admiration for Orbison and wanted to collaborate with him. Unfortunately, Orbison passed away in December 1988, just after the album's release. Despite his untimely death, his contributions were significant, and he provided vocals and songwriting for several tracks. Without Orbison, the group did not reassemble for their second album, which was released in 1990 with a replacement for his role.

Myth and Fact

There are a few myths that need debunking regarding the band. For instance, it's sometimes claimed that a dobjurok or "stunt double" stood in for Roy Orbison. This is an incorrect assumption. Orbison's absence was due to his passing, not a replacement or stunt double.

Posthumous Legacy

Orbison's legacy in The Traveling Wilburys is honored in a way that reflects his unique contributions. The band decided not to proceed with a second album without him, perhaps recognizing the significance of his early involvement. Some have even pondered about the possibility of the group being even greater with Orbison participating. It is a testament to his influence and the respect his companions had for him during this creative moment.

Conclusion

While Roy Orbison was part of the initial formation of The Traveling Wilburys, he tragically passed away before the band's full project could be completed. His contribution to the group is remembered and celebrated through their first album. The Traveling Wilburys' legacy is one of collaboration and creative genius, with Orbison's role being a crucial part of its early history. Understanding the true story behind the band not only enriches our knowledge of its formation but also highlights the profound impact of each member's involvement, even those who could not complete the journey together.