About the Song
Roy Orbison. That name conjures up a powerful voice, soaring melodies, and a signature style that dominated the airwaves in the 1960s. Known for his dramatic ballads and operatic vocals, Orbison carved out a unique space in rock and roll, influencing countless singers with his emotive delivery. But Orbison’s career wasn’t confined to a single decade. Even later in his life, he continued to explore new sounds and themes, and that’s exactly what we find in his 1989 song, In the Real World.
Released on his album Mystery Girl, In the Real World marked a bit of a departure for Orbison. While still retaining his signature soulful voice, the song incorporates a more contemporary production style, with elements of synth and a driving beat. But fear not, Orbison fans! The heart of the song remains true to his core. The lyrics grapple with themes of love, loss, and the bittersweet contrast between dreams and reality.
In the Real World isn’t a heart-wrenching ballad like “Crying” or a defiant anthem like “Oh, Pretty Woman.” Instead, it offers a more mature contemplation on love and life’s inevitable challenges. It’s a song that resonates with those who have experienced the joys and heartbreaks that come with growing older. So, if you’re looking for a Roy Orbison song that reflects on the complexities of love and the passage of time, then In the Real World is a hidden gem waiting to be rediscovered.