Introduction
The Traveling Wilburys were a British-American supergroup formed in Los Angeles in 1988.
The members were Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison, and Tom Petty. Each member was already a successful and famous musician before joining the group.
Why You Should Listen
The Traveling Wilburys brought together five legendary musicians.
Although they were active for only a short time, they created memorable songs with a relaxed and enjoyable sound.
“End of the Line” is a great example of their unique style and friendship.
Highlights
- Performances by five legendary musicians
- Relaxed and upbeat sound
- Different members sharing lead vocals
- Memorable performance by Roy Orbison
About the Song
“End of the Line” was written by the members of The Traveling Wilburys and produced by Otis Wilbury (Jeff Lynne) and Nelson Wilbury (George Harrison).
The song was included on their debut album, Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1, and was released as a single in January 1989.
It peaked at No. 8 in Canada, No. 12 in Australia, No. 52 in the UK, and No. 63 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US. It also charted in several other countries.
Roy Orbison died in December 1988, before “End of the Line” was released as a single. Because of his death, he did not appear in the music video.
During his vocal part, the video shows a photograph of Orbison and a guitar in a rocking chair as a tribute to him.
About the Artist
The Traveling Wilburys were a British-American supergroup formed in Los Angeles in 1988.
The group began almost by accident. George Harrison originally needed a new song for the B-side of his single “This Is Love.”
He got together with Jeff Lynne, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, and Roy Orbison, and they recorded “Handle with Care.”
The song was considered too good to be used only as a B-side, and this unexpected recording session led to the formation of The Traveling Wilburys.
The five musicians used fictional Wilbury names instead of their real names, adding a playful spirit to the group.
Their debut single, “Handle with Care,” was included on their first studio album, Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1.
The song became a hit in several countries. Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1 was also a major success and won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
After Roy Orbison’s death, the remaining four members recorded their second and final studio album, Traveling Wilburys Vol. 3, released in 1990.
Despite its title, it was actually their second studio album.
Conclusion
The Traveling Wilburys brought together five legendary British and American musicians in one remarkable supergroup.
Although they were together for only a short time, they created memorable music that combined their different styles and personalities.
“End of the Line” is one of the best examples of their relaxed sound, friendship, and musical talent.
It is also a touching reminder of Roy Orbison and his final years as a great rock and pop singer.
Video courtesy of the official YouTube channel.