About the Song
Roy Orbison, the man with the velvet voice. Remember him? The dark sunglasses, the dramatic gestures, and that powerful voice that could soar and croon with equal intensity. Well, settle in and get ready for a trip down memory lane with one of his most popular tunes, “Trying To Get To You”.
This song came out in 1956, back when rock and roll was just starting to take hold. It wasn’t quite the wild, frenetic energy of some of the other early rockers, but it had a driving beat and a melody that burrowed its way right into your head. Orbison wasn’t afraid to show his emotions in his singing, and “Trying To Get To You” is a prime example.
The song starts right out with a sense of urgency. Orbison sings about traveling “over mountains, even through the valleys too,” “night and day,” “running all the way, baby, trying to get to you”. You can practically hear the train whistle blowing in the background as he races across the country, fueled by the love letters he’s been reading.
There’s a touch of naiveté in the lyrics, a wide-eyed belief in the power of love to conquer all. Those miles don’t seem to matter, because his heart is “singing” and “there were many miles between us…but they didn’t mean a thing.” It’s a sentiment that resonates with anyone who’s ever been young and in love, convinced that nothing can keep them apart.
Of course, Orbison doesn’t just sing the words, he lives them. His voice cracks with emotion, especially in the chorus when he belts out, “Well, since I read your lovin’ letters…then my heart began to sing.” You can feel the desperation, the determination, and the sheer joy of being loved.
“Trying To Get To You” became a signature song for Orbison, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a perfect encapsulation of his style – dramatic, emotional, and full of heart. So, put on your dancing shoes, crank up the volume, and let Roy Orbison take you back to a time when love conquered all, and a train ride could feel like a journey to forever.