The best thing about this group is that they were just friends having fun. Not in it for money or fame. Nothing to prove. Just something they wanted to do.
You're so right - it was all about the joy of making music. That's why it's so great to listen to. It's not about the charts, it's listening to amazing artists having a good time. Always makes me smile. X
@@Pseudonym-aka-alias I doubt Bob needed to be reminded, because, after all, Roy Orbison was there, who they were all in absolute awe of, Dylan included.
That first hit just makes me want to cry. Ohh the flashbacks! I was in like 5th grade when this came out and I was entering a real major phase of just going HAM on learning my own musical preferences, branching out from (but still taught well by) my parents.
Their other big hit 'End Of The Line' is definitely worth checking out too. Much more Jeff Lynne on that one and it was released after Roy Orbison died, so is goosebump worthy.
It's so sad in the video when they show the empty rocking chair that is rocking ... symbolizing missing Roy's presence. And Roy is singing at that point.
As an ELO and Beatles fan, this was like heaven for me. Just to see them together with the other superstars. Roy Orbison's voice was magnificent. Many thanks for this reaction. regards from Chile! :-)
I love their song End of The Line. The video is really appropriately handles Roy Orbison's passing, and the song shows just how genuine Tom Petty's vocals can be.
They’ve proven themselves individually so no need to in this group. What this song demonstrates is how superbly they can deliver a straight forward radio song.
The Traveling Wilbury's performed a song called "Not Alone Anymore" which features Roy Orbison on lead vocals. If you haven't heard it, you should. Orbison's voice soars into the Stratosphere on that track. It is amazing.
I brought this up before, but I read somewhere that when Roy Orbison came in, all the others looked in awe at a guy who could sing like an angel and barely open his mouth.
All four of those guys were serious Orbison fans. You wouldn't think that Dylan, of all people, would fanboy the Big O, but he's never hesitated to say how profoundly Roy's songs moved him when Dylan was a young man.
@@gregsager2062 Tom Petty once said in an interview that after they met Orbison and got him to join the group , he, Dylan and Harrison drove back from the meeting, and the three of them kept jumping up and down and yelling "Roy Orbison's in our band!!!" like little kids.
In the Scorsese’s 2011 documentary about George Harrison called “Living in the Material World” Tom Petty was interviewed about his friendship with Harrison. He talked about how the band came together and how this song came to be. He said that one of the first times that they were all together he said that they had all of these songwriters in one place so “let’s write a song.” Harrison had the riff for this song and when Petty asked Harrison about the song’s name he said that he saw Harrison glance over to a package in the corner of the room and then say “Handle with Care.”
I always heard Jeff and George were hanging out after Jeff produced his album and they decided to get a group together. Jeff recently working with Tom, and George being a Beatle so having connection to Bob and Roy
The initial session was just for a B-side for a George Harrison single, as recounted by George in video I've seen - I think it was in the Wilbury's deluxe CD/DVD package. Apparently, someone at the label was so impressed they asked for a whole album, it was too good to be a B-side. Something to that effect, it' been ages since I saw it.
The song was written mostly by Harrison who takes the main vocal and plays the slide guitar. Probably more that Petty was influenced by Harrison than the other way around. Enjoy the official video! It was a blast when this first came out as a huge nostalgia burst!
Yeah, End of the Line is the next logical one to hit. This one has mostly George Harrison on vocals, but End of the Line definitely has Petty on vocals more. And yeah, I would’ve said to watched the video on this and EotL
I love The End of the Line. "Im just glad to be here, happy to be alive(at the end of the line). Released in October of 1988, Roy Orbison died in December 1988
@@gregghelmberger the sorry I went MIA, my health is precarious. &, writing, & more proficient, George was just extraordinary in his songs. He had a natural way with his ability to never overdo, his songs both v//,w/lyrics ,& melody. His songs were beautiful, & you immediately knew what he meant. Or whatever the subject, you ALWAYS knew what he was trying to convey. Like "Run of the Mill....
@@karenwalker3770 I hope you're feeling better now! My health is the same way. For the last three albums before the Beatles broke up, George was IMO their best and most consistent songwriter. Every song he authored during that period was brilliant -- and that carried over into his post-Beatles career. He was a remarkable talent.
Handle with Care was begun by George Harrison. He was planning to record it as a b-side and asked Lynne to produce it. Lynne was working with Orbison at the time so Harrison invited him to the session. They ended up going to Dylan's studio and Harrison dropped by Petty's house for a particular guitar he wanted to use so he invited Petty. The five of them ultimately finished the writing of the song, but it was principally Harrison's. After Harrison gave the song to his record company, they insisted that it was too good for a b-side and that led to the five recording an entire album. A lot of people here are calling for End of the Line, but I recommend Not Alone Anymore which is a showcase for Orbison that will give you absolute chills.
Jeff Lynne is a phenomenal musician, producer, singer, songwriter and arranger. He creates the best fusion for Rock with Classical instruments. The end result is symphonic Rock and Pop with fabulous harmonies. Long live Jeff Lynne’s Electric Light Orchestra (ELO).
Yes. The reason they thought “Tom Petty” despite the fact that it was a George Harrison song was likely because of Jeff Lynne’s production. Lynne produced, co-wrote, and played on the Petty album “Full Moon Fever” which has some of Petty’s most well known solo songs. 80s ELO as well as the stuff Lynne produced for Roy Orbison and Del Shannon have a similar quality.
I think that's the only song on the album where the lead writer doesn't also sing lead vocals. Jeff Lynne just really wanted to write a song for Roy's voice.
One comment on the video of how this group came to be said: "Something like this can never be duplicated. Legendary musical artists who left their ego's at the door to have some fun and create a little magic that will always live on."
I love this album start to finish. This song, which opens the album, and the closer - End of the Line - feature all five prominently. Other songs have a more distinct stamp of one of the WIlburys. There are Bob songs, Jeff songs, George songs, and Roy songs in addition to this Pettyesque one. It would be a great Patreon album. Also - do you want to feel a thousand years old? When this album came out, it was like "oh cool - these old guys got together and made an album, and it's great." Their ages at the time it was released: Petty: 37 Dylan: 47 Harrison: 45 Lynne: 41 Orbison: 52
I always felt this band was created for the members and for the fans who love them. It’s showcases all of the different styles in different songs and they come together in a really pleasant way. I love each one of these artists individually and I love this band.
This was a George Harrison song. Interesting back story to this group is how they formed in the first place which I’m sure you will research. Jeff Lynne produced both Tom Petty’s solo album and George Harrison’s Cloud Nine albums. George had this song and wanted to record at Bob Dylan’s home studio. It just so happened that Roy Orbison was staying there at the time. The rest is history
I agreed "Tom Petty" song feel but did the Wiki: George Harrison wrote this song before the group was formed and apparently it was gonna be a bonus track for a album at the time but it was deemed too good to waste which actually led to the formation of the Travelling Wilbury's group and was their opening track. Kinda straight forward song but when you put five legends in a group and mix then together this well I gotta say A+ at least -just cuz.
True. George was all set, & just wanted a group of friends to make music with & not to have to fight to get a song on an album with!!! He was about sick of that!!! Who could blame him??? Sheesh!!!
There is no one like Roy Orbison. The second he sings you know who it is, and if you listen to the vocals again, you can hear the texture he adds. Vocally the others are similar, but he's one of a kind.
Long time coming for this one, boys. When this came out it was a big time resurgence of Roy Orbison fans and we all wore black to High school when we heard about his death.
The Traveling Wilburys consist of Nelson, Otis, Lefty, Charlie T. and Lucky Wilbury. For Volume 3 it was Spike, Clayton, Muddy and Boo Wilbury taking over. Buster Sidebury helped out with drums and percussion and Ayrton Wilbury did some overdubs on a couple tracks.
These guys came together and made a 10 song album in days, writing the songs as they went. George asked his buds to help on a single (this song) and the results made them continue for nine more songs. There is a documentary that shows their process... very loose and democatic. This album has one of Dylan's best and most "get it in the first listening" songs, "Tweeter And The Monkey Man".
You guys should check out Boz Scaggs, whose name alone should pique your interest. His "Silk Degrees" album is worth a full album review, but you might want to start with "Lowdown." or "Lido Shuffle." Or "Georgia."
Yup,I’ve been listening to Boz Skaggs and Jackson Browne a lot lately,just missed Browne and James Taylor concert the other week in Victoria,would have been a good show. Hello from British Columbia
End of the Line Fo Sho!!! This song was written as they stood around at Bob Dylan’s house and Harrison says, “Ok boys, let’s write a song. They went around the room taking turns shouting out lines and it would either be accepted at that moment or rejected and then the next guy goes. When they asked each other what should they call it, apparently either George or Tom Petty saw a box at the house where they were writing that said Handle With Care. The rest is history!
Jeff Lynne produced and wrote songs for George Harrison, Roy Orbison and Tom Petty. So the Wilburys sound is more Jeff Lynne than Tom. But all their voices and instruments were blended so well. It was unique!
At 67 this band touches my heart. Major,major players. Countless years of super-duper stardom (yes I said that). When this came out and I watched the video I was a little overcome. And the group was gone so fast. Mercy. What a pleasurable treat.
After George broke free from the Beatles, he seemed MUCH HAPPIER when he handpicked friends to become the Traveling Wilburies. They've got some great songs. I'd suggest you watch the video of End of the Line next.
@@loosilu I completely agree! They had such fun, & he didn't have to beg to get a song on an album! Incredible the way he was horrifically underappreciated in the Beatles. It's no wonder he wanted out!!! Don't get me wrong, I'm a lifer Beatles fan of course, but ESPECIALLY love George. His lyrics are always interesting, & he was a musical genius!!
@@karenwalker3770 I love Gorge too, but there was a reason his songs were a lower priority. John and Paul wrote hit songs. That's where the money was. They were the ones under the pressure to make more hits, because a lot of people at EMI were living off those hits.
All 5 of them are credited as the songwriters for this song. But the Petty/Harrison influence is obvious and Orbison's voice iconic. And of course the classic Dylan harmonica at the end, so each of them stood on their own. There is a live recording on RUclips you may want to watch to get the full flavor of each of their contributions.
I would love to hear your take on “Tweeter and the Monkeyman”. Not just for the music, but also because of the lyrical content and the story that is told in the song. I would be very interested to see what your thoughts are.
Story goes George was recording a b-side with Jeff Lynne producing, he had left a guitar at Tom Petty's house, and Dylan was touring at the time with Petty, while Jeff was producing Roy Orbison's comeback album.
My favorite Wilbury anecdote -- so apparently when it came time to release the follow-up, George was aware of a bootleg someone had released of the outtakes from the first album that was called Volume 2, so he suggested they name the second album Volume 3 as a joke. So they did.
The two of you not only have the most informed, and in-depth reactions, but it is also apparent you have loved listening to the vast majority of the music. The authenticity combined with the knowledge you have brought to your channel has equaled well-deserved success. Thanks, guys.
re: "George Harrison-flavored" Tom Petty. Not a bad description. The sound of the song and what you came away with it is pretty apt. Jeff Lynne had produced George Harrison's record "Cloud 9" in 1987...he proceeded to help Tom Petty with his first solo record, "Full Moon Fever," beginning in 1987...and Lynne helped produce Roy Orbison's last recordings. Dylan had the studio available to them. George needed to pick his guitar up over at Tom Petty's house. The production sound is all Jeff Lynne. The song was supposed to be a B-side, but it was too good to be a B-side. All of the guys in the band pitched in on lines in the song. All Harrison had was the chord progression. Per Wikipedia: In another contemporary interview, Harrison recalled that he had the opening line, "Been beat-up and battered around", but otherwise, the lyrics were the result of a group effort. Harrison asked Dylan, who had been tending a barbecue for the musicians, to "Give us some lyrics, you famous lyricist." When Dylan asked for a title for the song, Harrison looked around the garage and said, "Handle with Care", after a label on a box. The rest of the album kind of has each member write/sing a song or two apiece. It's all collaboration. Everyone helps out. The Orbison song, "Not Alone Anymore," has some pretty soaring, Roy-Orbison-like vocals, tailor made for his voice. "Heading For The Light" is a great George Harrison song. "End of the Line" is another great single where they all pitch in on vocals. I don't know if the album sounds more like a Tom Petty record or a Jeff Lynne produced-Tom Petty record. There IS a difference. It was a minor miracle that all of these friends, these rock gods convened for a week or two and pushed out an album without any ego, without any duff tracks, with no expectations and without any hang-ups. It won't shatter your world, but it would definitely add to your collection.
I agree with you, and I think the sound has a lot to do with Jeff Lynne's production, along with the Wilbury's themselves, as at that time they were all playing to some extent on each others songs and albums, which were being produced by Jeff. And I guess that's just their sound!
Awe you guys shame you didnt get the video that goes along with this stellar song. so you can see all the players involved just such huge talents. Cheers!
"You're Not Alone" is a great song. The entire band had a recording, but they weren't too happy with it. Overnight, by himself, Jeff Lynne rewrote the chord progressions, replayed instruments, and by the next morning, the band came in and heard the final package. They were perplexed, how a song with vocals already recorded could have an entire song chord progression changed and not just work, but work better.
I feel privileged to have been a small part of your musical education. This album is gold dust. The way George & Roy alternate the vocals with all five on the chorus makes this tune special. You are right it was retro in 1988, I was 37 with 2 kids, & it was a breath from the past to hear these four super-stars play & sing together.
On Jeff Lynne's 2019 tour George Harrison's son was the opening act, then he came back during ELO's set to sing his dad's parts on this tune. I can't say I really heard much of a George influence on his son's songs, but wow, on this number that voice was uncanny.
You gotta listen to "End Of The Line" and "Heading For The Light" next. ELO also did a great live version of "Handle With Care" recently and released it on DVD.
You guys are on the right track with TW. Not breaking any new ground, but more just having fun together. I think the “younger” guys also enjoyed bringing Roy Orbison to more people as he was a hero to them. As you listen to songs on the albums, you really can pick out who likely was the main writer, especially the Dylan songs. And, everything impeccably produced by Jeff Lynne.
Weird how they got together. Jeff Lynne was producing both Roy's and George's solo albums at the time. The three had lunch when Roy was invited to sing on a George song. They contacted Dylan to use his home studio, and apparently stopped by Petty's house to borrow a guitar and that night had "Handle With Care" written.
They got the name for the band when Harrison and Lynne were mixing a Harrison album, and whenever there was a mistake in one of the takes, they'd say "we'll bury it in the mix." So they later formed a super group and called it the "Wilburys."
Jeff Lynne has been highly underrated. He has not only had dozens of his own hits, he has helped many others write or produce or improve their work. He has a knack for making music audiences enjoy listening to.
Handle With care was mainly written by George Harrison and produced by Jeff Lynne. George and Jeff created the group and asked Dylan , Orbison and Petty to join.
Jeff Lynne and George Harrison produced this, and Lynne produced some of Petty's work too. That layered acoustic sound is heard a lot in Petty's work, that's probably why it reminds you mostly of him.
Now that's a SUPER Group. I love Tom Pettys voice, and all their voices meld well together. They were all super fans of Roy. Too bad Orbison didn't get to enjoy the bands success. He died of a heart attack in the Winter of 1988. "End Of The Line" next.
It wasn't a single, but "Tweeter and the Monkey Man" would be my suggestion for a Wilburys follow up. It's very much a blend of Petty and Dylan's styles.
I had never heard of that song before, so I had to go listen to it right away. I listened to it twice through, and I think it is great. I think A&A would love it.
To get more Bob you should check out: ”Tweeter and the monkey man”, it’s my favorite by them and if you want more of jeff lynne you should check out: ”At the end of the line”. Both are must listens but I wouldnt mind either one of them again soon.
It does have a little bit of a Petty feel, but it is a Harrison song (at least, the initial version of it, before others joined in and reshaped it). Harrison does lead vocals and slide guitar; Orbison sings the bridge parts; all play acoustic guitars and harmonies, obviously Dylan on harmonica, and, as he is want to do, Lynne plays everything else, including bass and drums. There's a nice, clean video of this you might enjoy; fun to see them all performing together.
@@davidzenner7040 You're right. Lynne put down a rough track on the original pre-Wilbury demo, but it was Keltner who was the actual Wilbury drummer on the record; which makes sense since he played on many Beatle solo albums. Good catch.
Alex nailed reason we loved the Wilburys so much when this came out. Because they didn’t try to do too much. The group came together organically, it wasn’t planned and it wasn’t some half baked idea by the record company. It was just a bunch of aging rockers doing what they do best. Now delve into “Tweeter and the Monkey Man.”
Nice. This is a great song. You should also give You Got It by Roy Orbison a listen. It features Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne, it's post Wilburys if I remember right. Great great song.
Ok. I have refrained from pulling out the age card on you guys, that is until now. I'm 69, I grew up and spent all of my life listening to these guys. The correct call for any song that includes Jeff Lynne, Tom Petty, George Harrison, Bob Dylan, and freaking Roy Orbison is an S tier song. They could sing the phone book (look up phone book) and make it sound better than most other bands. Thanks for posting.
This is 5 legends having fun and making music. With the great Jim Kelton on drums as the unofficial 6th Wilbury. George was making an album, had a single, needed a b side. Was working with Jeff Lynn, it all led to this song. Instead of a b side George said let’s make an album. For your next wilbury song try “MY BABY” it was recorded after Roy died I think, all four remaining wilburys sing on it. Also has heavier guitar work on it by Gary Moore. You’ll like it.
You're reaction is pretty much spot on. This is a group that had achieved their own goals and careers and took the opportunity to put together a "jam band" just to have some fun, and put out some tunes. They all knew each other and they knew what they each brought to the table, so they were able to give each other the room to put their stamp on knowing it wouldn't claim the whole song. Just for the fun of it.... an attitude you can have when you have nothing to prove and don't need to compete with each other.
This was a George song actually, with all the members throwing lines in here and there. That is how they wrote the whole album. George had something to record and he ran into him, who needed to get his guitar from his place, and go to his house to record.......It all happened accidentally.
And they were all in the same room. Also, it works because you know all the voices -- wonderful recognition factor. It is a "fun" song. They were having fun and decided to share it with us.
Andy nailed it when he said how he could imagine this song being heard in all kinds of different places. I think you'd enjoy listening to the whole album more than cherry picking songs and listening to them over a long period of time.
The best thing about this group is that they were just friends having fun. Not in it for money or fame. Nothing to prove. Just something they wanted to do.
It made me so happy that Roy Orbison was able to have a last bit of appreciation from his peers and fans.
You're so right - it was all about the joy of making music. That's why it's so great to listen to. It's not about the charts, it's listening to amazing artists having a good time. Always makes me smile. X
Exactly
I did read somewhere that George said to Bob ( leave your ego at the door) when they got together??.
@@Pseudonym-aka-alias I doubt Bob needed to be reminded, because, after all, Roy Orbison was there, who they were all in absolute awe of, Dylan included.
There is a sixth legend in this group - The tremendous session drummer Jim Keltner
Yes!
I've heard Ringo say "now that's a drummer" about Jim Keltner.
YES - Jim Keltner - say his name! I had to look him up!
The great Jim Keltner. He played drums in MC Squared back in the late 60s.
Buster Sidebury, best session drummer in the business
Roy Orbison singing that bridge is EVERYTHING!!! 🙌🏻
One of my favorite musical lines ever.
Morning Allison! Happy Monday!!! PERFECT SONG TODAY!
@@paulspillman9413 mine, too, without a doubt!
Hey @@Shadowrider1872! Happy Monday to you, too! Hope you have a wonderful week!
That first hit just makes me want to cry. Ohh the flashbacks! I was in like 5th grade when this came out and I was entering a real major phase of just going HAM on learning my own musical preferences, branching out from (but still taught well by) my parents.
A&A, you'll love their "End of the Line" !! edit- you have to see the videos guys!
End of the line is their best song easy🔥🔥👍🏼👍🏼
@@RyneMurray23 One of the best songs period
THat also sounds like a Tom Petty song, doesn't it? NEver thought about this before.
@@loosilu Wait till they hear End Of The Line, Tom has most of the vocals!
@@loosilu For me it will always sound like a Roy song.
Their other big hit 'End Of The Line' is definitely worth checking out too. Much more Jeff Lynne on that one and it was released after Roy Orbison died, so is goosebump worthy.
End of The Line is a great song. Probably the best one on the album
I go back and forth between the two songs as to which one is better. They’re both great.
It's so sad in the video when they show the empty rocking chair that is rocking ... symbolizing missing Roy's presence. And Roy is singing at that point.
Roy was alive when End of the Line was released as it was part of their first album. But he died before they did music video for song.
Especially the music video where they put a portrait of Roy on a chair so he's still there.
As an ELO and Beatles fan, this was like heaven for me. Just to see them together with the other superstars. Roy Orbison's voice was magnificent.
Many thanks for this reaction.
regards from Chile! :-)
Very well said!
I love their song End of The Line. The video is really appropriately handles Roy Orbison's passing, and the song shows just how genuine Tom Petty's vocals can be.
They’ve proven themselves individually so no need to in this group. What this song demonstrates is how superbly they can deliver a straight forward radio song.
Roy Orbinson’s voice -iconic and so unique. Even sounds legendary.
It's like an angel kept swooping down from heaven to sing those lines.
@@johndonovan758 Dwight Yoakum described Orbison's voice perfectly: "The cry of an angel falling backward through an open window."
@@gregsager2062 Wow, thanks for sharing that description!
@@johndonovan758 Sure is! Honestly, he stands out, even amongst other legends.
The Traveling Wilbury's performed a song called "Not Alone Anymore" which features Roy Orbison on lead vocals. If you haven't heard it, you should. Orbison's voice soars into the Stratosphere on that track. It is amazing.
I brought this up before, but I read somewhere that when Roy Orbison came in, all the others looked in awe at a guy who could sing like an angel and barely open his mouth.
All four of those guys were serious Orbison fans. You wouldn't think that Dylan, of all people, would fanboy the Big O, but he's never hesitated to say how profoundly Roy's songs moved him when Dylan was a young man.
@@gregsager2062 Tom Petty once said in an interview that after they met Orbison and got him to join the group , he, Dylan and Harrison drove back from the meeting, and the three of them kept jumping up and down and yelling "Roy Orbison's in our band!!!" like little kids.
In the Scorsese’s 2011 documentary about George Harrison called “Living in the Material World” Tom Petty was interviewed about his friendship with Harrison. He talked about how the band came together and how this song came to be. He said that one of the first times that they were all together he said that they had all of these songwriters in one place so “let’s write a song.” Harrison had the riff for this song and when Petty asked Harrison about the song’s name he said that he saw Harrison glance over to a package in the corner of the room and then say “Handle with Care.”
true story but it was in Petty's garage by what I heard.
@@tmage7042 yes, this event happened in a garage…. it happened in Bob Dylan’s garage where they had gathered to record the album.
I always heard Jeff and George were hanging out after Jeff produced his album and they decided to get a group together. Jeff recently working with Tom, and George being a Beatle so having connection to Bob and Roy
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Handle_with_Care_(song)
The initial session was just for a B-side for a George Harrison single, as recounted by George in video I've seen - I think it was in the Wilbury's deluxe CD/DVD package. Apparently, someone at the label was so impressed they asked for a whole album, it was too good to be a B-side. Something to that effect, it' been ages since I saw it.
This whole album is great. The track Roy sings lead on, "Not Alone Anymore" is a perfect example of his range and unique vocal ability.
He's got a voice that can make you weep instantly.
The song was written mostly by Harrison who takes the main vocal and plays the slide guitar. Probably more that Petty was influenced by Harrison than the other way around. Enjoy the official video! It was a blast when this first came out as a huge nostalgia burst!
George Harrison spotted a box in Dylan’s studio that had ‘Handle With Care’ printed on it. That was the inspiration for the song.
Couldn’t be happier that you guys finally got around to the Wilburys! You must do End of the Line, and you must see the video. Please and thank you!
All that talent in one album. It’s an A+ for me.
Yeah, End of the Line is the next logical one to hit. This one has mostly George Harrison on vocals, but End of the Line definitely has Petty on vocals more. And yeah, I would’ve said to watched the video on this and EotL
Man, that video. So bittersweet.
I love The End of the Line. "Im just glad to be here, happy to be alive(at the end of the line). Released in October of 1988, Roy Orbison died in December 1988
@@gregghelmberger the sorry I went MIA, my health is precarious. &, writing, & more proficient, George was just extraordinary in his songs. He had a natural way with his ability to never overdo, his songs both v//,w/lyrics ,& melody. His songs were beautiful, & you immediately knew what he meant. Or whatever the subject, you ALWAYS knew what he was trying to convey. Like "Run of the Mill....
@@karenwalker3770 I hope you're feeling better now! My health is the same way.
For the last three albums before the Beatles broke up, George was IMO their best and most consistent songwriter. Every song he authored during that period was brilliant -- and that carried over into his post-Beatles career. He was a remarkable talent.
I agree that it has a Tom Petty vibe. But I think the melody and chord progressions are pure George Harrison.
Agree 100 percent....this is all George.
@@Mike-ky9jz Yep. 100% Harrison.
I think that's why he was the main singer. He wrote most of it, apparently first intending a version for a solo effort.
This is Jeff Lynne's baby. He produced Harrison's Cloud Nine, Orbison's Mystery Girl, and Petty's Full Moon Fever, all released around that time.
His lead vocal (mostly), his slide guitar, mostly his writing.
They didn't just sound like they were in the same room, they WERE in the same room! Organic.
Keep listening. The TW’s have a whole lot more to enjoy. Do “End of the Line” or “Tweeter and the Monkey Man”.
Handle With Care, Margarita, Rattled, Dirty World, Last Night, Inside Out ... lots of good follow ups to listen to, But Tweeter needs to be the next.
Oh My God, shout out for Tweeter and the Monkey Man!!!
Both of those are great!
Yes, Tweeter and the Monkey Man is a great one!
Handle with Care was begun by George Harrison. He was planning to record it as a b-side and asked Lynne to produce it. Lynne was working with Orbison at the time so Harrison invited him to the session. They ended up going to Dylan's studio and Harrison dropped by Petty's house for a particular guitar he wanted to use so he invited Petty. The five of them ultimately finished the writing of the song, but it was principally Harrison's. After Harrison gave the song to his record company, they insisted that it was too good for a b-side and that led to the five recording an entire album.
A lot of people here are calling for End of the Line, but I recommend Not Alone Anymore which is a showcase for Orbison that will give you absolute chills.
Jeff Lynne is a phenomenal musician, producer, singer, songwriter and arranger. He creates the best fusion for Rock with Classical instruments. The end result is symphonic Rock and Pop with fabulous harmonies. Long live Jeff Lynne’s Electric Light Orchestra (ELO).
This is a Harrison song . NOT Lynn.
Who said that Yankee?@@nonrepublicrat
Yes. The reason they thought “Tom Petty” despite the fact that it was a George Harrison song was likely because of Jeff Lynne’s production. Lynne produced, co-wrote, and played on the Petty album “Full Moon Fever” which has some of Petty’s most well known solo songs. 80s ELO as well as the stuff Lynne produced for Roy Orbison and Del Shannon have a similar quality.
"Not Alone Anymore" with awesome lead vocals by Roy
I think that's the only song on the album where the lead writer doesn't also sing lead vocals.
Jeff Lynne just really wanted to write a song for Roy's voice.
One comment on the video of how this group came to be said: "Something like this can never be duplicated. Legendary musical artists who left their ego's at the door to have some fun and create a little magic that will always live on."
The multiple voices work because these are some of the greatest musicians ever born.
Finally someone listening to the traveling wilburys. One of my favorite bands.
I love this album start to finish. This song, which opens the album, and the closer - End of the Line - feature all five prominently. Other songs have a more distinct stamp of one of the WIlburys. There are Bob songs, Jeff songs, George songs, and Roy songs in addition to this Pettyesque one. It would be a great Patreon album.
Also - do you want to feel a thousand years old? When this album came out, it was like "oh cool - these old guys got together and made an album, and it's great." Their ages at the time it was released:
Petty: 37
Dylan: 47
Harrison: 45
Lynne: 41
Orbison: 52
"End Of The Line" is a great tune! That should be your next one to check out.
I always felt this band was created for the members and for the fans who love them. It’s showcases all of the different styles in different songs and they come together in a really pleasant way. I love each one of these artists individually and I love this band.
This was a George Harrison song. Interesting back story to this group is how they formed in the first place which I’m sure you will research. Jeff Lynne produced both Tom Petty’s solo album and George Harrison’s Cloud Nine albums.
George had this song and wanted to record at Bob Dylan’s home studio. It just so happened that Roy Orbison was staying there at the time. The rest is history
I agreed "Tom Petty" song feel but did the Wiki: George Harrison wrote this song before the group was formed and apparently it was gonna be a bonus track for a album at the time but it was deemed too good to waste which actually led to the formation of the Travelling Wilbury's group and was their opening track. Kinda straight forward song but when you put five legends in a group and mix then together this well I gotta say A+ at least -just cuz.
It's always felt more like George than Petty to me.
@@tedmaire1599
Feels like Harrison to me too. Petty was influenced by George.
And Tom Petty was strictly background vocals on this particular song, you had to strain to hear him
True. George was all set, & just wanted a group of friends to make music with & not to have to fight to get a song on an album with!!! He was about sick of that!!! Who could blame him??? Sheesh!!!
There is no one like Roy Orbison. The second he sings you know who it is, and if you listen to the vocals again, you can hear the texture he adds. Vocally the others are similar, but he's one of a kind.
I agree and think they need to listen to more Roy solo.
@@boscokid9524 absolutely
"Rattled" is a straight banger, and "Dirty World" is pure fun with Dylan actually singing with maximum effort.
I think that Rattled is great fun! Especially when Roy growls! 😄
Heading for the light is fabulous as well.
Long time coming for this one, boys. When this came out it was a big time resurgence of Roy Orbison fans and we all wore black to High school when we heard about his death.
The Traveling Wilburys consist of Nelson, Otis, Lefty, Charlie T. and Lucky Wilbury. For Volume 3 it was Spike, Clayton, Muddy and Boo Wilbury taking over. Buster Sidebury helped out with drums and percussion and Ayrton Wilbury did some overdubs on a couple tracks.
Some excellent Decca early 50s wax. I still dig through the bargain bins looking for their fourth album.
Don't forget Ken Wilbury who plays lead guitar on She's My Baby
These guys came together and made a 10 song album in days, writing the songs as they went. George asked his buds to help on a single (this song) and the results made them continue for nine more songs.
There is a documentary that shows their process... very loose and democatic.
This album has one of Dylan's best and most "get it in the first listening" songs, "Tweeter And The Monkey Man".
ruclips.net/video/SUQ_gj-biIc/видео.html
I’ll admit I didn’t know “Tweeter and the Monkey Man” was a Dylan song. I knew it was a cover, but I first heard it done by Headstones.
Dylan’s homage to Bruce Springsteen. I was obsessed with that song when I was 9.
@@EQSATUB yeah, all the Jersey references and the Thunder Road line.
I can listen to it on repeat.
You guys should check out Boz Scaggs, whose name alone should pique your interest. His "Silk Degrees" album is worth a full album review, but you might want to start with "Lowdown." or "Lido Shuffle." Or "Georgia."
Yup,I’ve been listening to Boz Skaggs and Jackson Browne a lot lately,just missed Browne and James Taylor concert the other week in Victoria,would have been a good show. Hello from British Columbia
End of the Line Fo Sho!!! This song was written as they stood around at Bob Dylan’s house and Harrison says, “Ok boys, let’s write a song. They went around the room taking turns shouting out lines and it would either be accepted at that moment or rejected and then the next guy goes. When they asked each other what should they call it, apparently either George or Tom Petty saw a box at the house where they were writing that said Handle With Care. The rest is history!
Jeff Lynne produced this album and also Petty’s Full Moon Fever just a year before. That also helps account for the Petty comparison
It's like they just got together one Sunday afternoon to just jam and have some fun. It's so relaxed. They were all so great!
Jeff Lynne produced and wrote songs for George Harrison, Roy Orbison and Tom Petty. So the Wilburys sound is more Jeff Lynne than Tom. But all their voices and instruments were blended so well. It was unique!
At 67 this band touches my heart. Major,major players. Countless years of super-duper stardom (yes I said that). When this came out and I watched the video I was a little overcome. And the group was gone so fast. Mercy. What a pleasurable treat.
After George broke free from the Beatles, he seemed MUCH HAPPIER when he handpicked friends to become the Traveling Wilburies. They've got some great songs. I'd suggest you watch the video of End of the Line next.
And he recruited another friend, Eric Idle of Monty Python fame, to write the very funny liner notes.
I think it was ythe first band he was in that he considered "his."
@@loosilu I completely agree! They had such fun, & he didn't have to beg to get a song on an album! Incredible the way he was horrifically underappreciated in the Beatles. It's no wonder he wanted out!!! Don't get me wrong, I'm a lifer Beatles fan of course, but ESPECIALLY love George. His lyrics are always interesting, & he was a musical genius!!
@@karenwalker3770 I love Gorge too, but there was a reason his songs were a lower priority. John and Paul wrote hit songs. That's where the money was. They were the ones under the pressure to make more hits, because a lot of people at EMI were living off those hits.
I second watching the End Of The Line video just to see how much fun they're having. It adds a lot to the song.
When LEGENDS get together!!!
All 5 of them are credited as the songwriters for this song. But the Petty/Harrison influence is obvious and Orbison's voice iconic. And of course the classic Dylan harmonica at the end, so each of them stood on their own. There is a live recording on RUclips you may want to watch to get the full flavor of each of their contributions.
George, from what have read, just loved being in this group. No agenda, just getting together and playing music.
I would love to hear your take on “Tweeter and the Monkeyman”. Not just for the music, but also because of the lyrical content and the story that is told in the song. I would be very interested to see what your thoughts are.
Completely unrelated songs, but I've always looked at it as "Something Big, part 2".
People think Tweeter is a shot at Springsteen.
Dylan and his story telling self
"Congratulations" is pure 90s Dylan too. He was always the best at the aloof smackdown. (See "Positively 4th Street")
Every song the Wilburys did could be sung around a campfire. The great ones are like that, they outlive us all
This is one of my favorites to play on guitar by them👍🏼🔥. What a great band.
Story goes George was recording a b-side with Jeff Lynne producing, he had left a guitar at Tom Petty's house, and Dylan was touring at the time with Petty, while Jeff was producing Roy Orbison's comeback album.
My favorite Wilbury anecdote -- so apparently when it came time to release the follow-up, George was aware of a bootleg someone had released of the outtakes from the first album that was called Volume 2, so he suggested they name the second album Volume 3 as a joke. So they did.
Definitely end of the line is a must...with the video. Released after Roy Orbison passed and it's a great tribute to him.
I love Tweeter and the Monkey Man from their first album. Dylan rocks it on vocals
Good one . My personal favorites are Inside Out and End Of the Line.
I give my vote to Tweeter and the Monkey Man as well
Watch the official video with them all singing together in a circle. You'll be able to see them each singing their individual parts
Don't forget drummer Jim Keltner, another all time great!
The two of you not only have the most informed, and in-depth reactions, but it is also apparent you have loved listening to the vast majority of the music. The authenticity combined with the knowledge you have brought to your channel has equaled well-deserved success.
Thanks, guys.
re: "George Harrison-flavored" Tom Petty. Not a bad description. The sound of the song and what you came away with it is pretty apt. Jeff Lynne had produced George Harrison's record "Cloud 9" in 1987...he proceeded to help Tom Petty with his first solo record, "Full Moon Fever," beginning in 1987...and Lynne helped produce Roy Orbison's last recordings. Dylan had the studio available to them. George needed to pick his guitar up over at Tom Petty's house. The production sound is all Jeff Lynne. The song was supposed to be a B-side, but it was too good to be a B-side. All of the guys in the band pitched in on lines in the song. All Harrison had was the chord progression.
Per Wikipedia: In another contemporary interview, Harrison recalled that he had the opening line, "Been beat-up and battered around", but otherwise, the lyrics were the result of a group effort. Harrison asked Dylan, who had been tending a barbecue for the musicians, to "Give us some lyrics, you famous lyricist." When Dylan asked for a title for the song, Harrison looked around the garage and said, "Handle with Care", after a label on a box.
The rest of the album kind of has each member write/sing a song or two apiece. It's all collaboration. Everyone helps out. The Orbison song, "Not Alone Anymore," has some pretty soaring, Roy-Orbison-like vocals, tailor made for his voice. "Heading For The Light" is a great George Harrison song. "End of the Line" is another great single where they all pitch in on vocals.
I don't know if the album sounds more like a Tom Petty record or a Jeff Lynne produced-Tom Petty record. There IS a difference. It was a minor miracle that all of these friends, these rock gods convened for a week or two and pushed out an album without any ego, without any duff tracks, with no expectations and without any hang-ups. It won't shatter your world, but it would definitely add to your collection.
I agree with you, and I think the sound has a lot to do with Jeff Lynne's production, along with the Wilbury's themselves, as at that time they were all playing to some extent on each others songs and albums, which were being produced by Jeff. And I guess that's just their sound!
Awe you guys shame you didnt get the video that goes along with this stellar song. so you can see all the players involved just such huge talents. Cheers!
Good opportunity to explore the works of these artists, starting with George Harrison, starting with What Is Life from the album All Things Must Pass.
Loved the video with dancers.
The sound is probably due to Jeff Lynne who was the producer for solo albums by Harrison, Petty, and Orbinson
"You're Not Alone" is a great song. The entire band had a recording, but they weren't too happy with it. Overnight, by himself, Jeff Lynne rewrote the chord progressions, replayed instruments, and by the next morning, the band came in and heard the final package. They were perplexed, how a song with vocals already recorded could have an entire song chord progression changed and not just work, but work better.
One thing to note is, Jeff Lynne went on to produce new albums for George, Tom and Roy. His influence is evident on their albums.
Hope you feel better ASAP, Alex!
I feel privileged to have been a small part of your musical education. This album is gold dust. The way George & Roy alternate the vocals with all five on the chorus makes this tune special.
You are right it was retro in 1988, I was 37 with 2 kids, & it was a breath from the past to hear these four super-stars play & sing together.
On Jeff Lynne's 2019 tour George Harrison's son was the opening act, then he came back during ELO's set to sing his dad's parts on this tune. I can't say I really heard much of a George influence on his son's songs, but wow, on this number that voice was uncanny.
I saw ELO in 2019 and that was awesome. Such an amazing concert.
You can also hear the similarity of Julian Lennon to his dad John
I saw it… incredible.
Dhani Harrison and Julian Lennon are SCARY clones of their fathers.
This ALWAYS makes me smile!
You gotta listen to "End Of The Line" and "Heading For The Light" next. ELO also did a great live version of "Handle With Care" recently and released it on DVD.
Absolutely love them all individually. So together they are spectacular!
You guys are on the right track with TW. Not breaking any new ground, but more just having fun together. I think the “younger” guys also enjoyed bringing Roy Orbison to more people as he was a hero to them. As you listen to songs on the albums, you really can pick out who likely was the main writer, especially the Dylan songs. And, everything impeccably produced by Jeff Lynne.
Weird how they got together. Jeff Lynne was producing both Roy's and George's solo albums at the time. The three had lunch when Roy was invited to sing on a George song. They contacted Dylan to use his home studio, and apparently stopped by Petty's house to borrow a guitar and that night had "Handle With Care" written.
They got the name for the band when Harrison and Lynne were mixing a Harrison album, and whenever there was a mistake in one of the takes, they'd say "we'll bury it in the mix." So they later formed a super group and called it the "Wilburys."
Jeff Lynne has been highly underrated. He has not only had dozens of his own hits, he has helped many others write or produce or improve their work. He has a knack for making music audiences enjoy listening to.
"The Real History of the Travelling Wilburys," is a must watch.
Bunch of guys who love and respect each other just hanging out and making music together. Jeff and Bob are the only ones left now.
Handle With care was mainly written by George Harrison and produced by Jeff Lynne. George and Jeff created the group and asked Dylan , Orbison and Petty to join.
Jeff Lynne and George Harrison produced this, and Lynne produced some of Petty's work too. That layered acoustic sound is heard a lot in Petty's work, that's probably why it reminds you mostly of him.
An all-time classic.
Great song, really wish you guys watched the video of all of them together singing!
Now that's a SUPER Group. I love Tom Pettys voice, and all their voices meld well together. They were all super fans of Roy. Too bad Orbison didn't get to enjoy the bands success. He died of a heart attack in the Winter of 1988. "End Of The Line" next.
Been requesting this for so long, that was the first request I made in the discord server when it just started. This makes me so happy
It wasn't a single, but "Tweeter and the Monkey Man" would be my suggestion for a Wilburys follow up. It's very much a blend of Petty and Dylan's styles.
That's a great song on its own, but it's also Dlyan playfully parodying Springsteen. That alone would be worth the price of admission.
Probably my favourite
Me too!
I had never heard of that song before, so I had to go listen to it right away. I listened to it twice through, and I think it is great. I think A&A would love it.
End of the line video is a must.
To get more Bob you should check out: ”Tweeter and the monkey man”, it’s my favorite by them and if you want more of jeff lynne you should check out: ”At the end of the line”. Both are must listens but I wouldnt mind either one of them again soon.
Great documentary on the making of this album on youtube, well worth a goo
It does have a little bit of a Petty feel, but it is a Harrison song (at least, the initial version of it, before others joined in and reshaped it). Harrison does lead vocals and slide guitar; Orbison sings the bridge parts; all play acoustic guitars and harmonies, obviously Dylan on harmonica, and, as he is want to do, Lynne plays everything else, including bass and drums. There's a nice, clean video of this you might enjoy; fun to see them all performing together.
I believe it was Jim Keltner on drums.
@@davidzenner7040 You're right. Lynne put down a rough track on the original pre-Wilbury demo, but it was Keltner who was the actual Wilbury drummer on the record; which makes sense since he played on many Beatle solo albums. Good catch.
Just hearing George and Roy singing is an emotional experience for me. Just great happy music, crafted with brilliance
Alex nailed reason we loved the Wilburys so much when this came out. Because they didn’t try to do too much. The group came together organically, it wasn’t planned and it wasn’t some half baked idea by the record company. It was just a bunch of aging rockers doing what they do best. Now delve into “Tweeter and the Monkey Man.”
End of The Line. Another one of theirs. BTW that was George Harrison and Roy Orbison singing. Tom Petty, Jeff Lynn and Bob Dylan sang the Chorus.
Nice. This is a great song. You should also give You Got It by Roy Orbison a listen. It features Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne, it's post Wilburys if I remember right. Great great song.
The Wilburys ended when Orbison died, I thought.
@@loosilu that's probably right.
Ok. I have refrained from pulling out the age card on you guys, that is until now. I'm 69, I grew up and spent all of my life listening to these guys. The correct call for any song that includes Jeff Lynne, Tom Petty, George Harrison, Bob Dylan, and freaking Roy Orbison is an S tier song. They could sing the phone book (look up phone book) and make it sound better than most other bands. Thanks for posting.
This is 5 legends having fun and making music. With the great Jim Kelton on drums as the unofficial 6th Wilbury. George was making an album, had a single, needed a b side. Was working with Jeff Lynn, it all led to this song. Instead of a b side George said let’s make an album. For your next wilbury song try “MY BABY” it was recorded after Roy died I think, all four remaining wilburys sing on it. Also has heavier guitar work on it by Gary Moore. You’ll like it.
You're reaction is pretty much spot on. This is a group that had achieved their own goals and careers and took the opportunity to put together a "jam band" just to have some fun, and put out some tunes. They all knew each other and they knew what they each brought to the table, so they were able to give each other the room to put their stamp on knowing it wouldn't claim the whole song. Just for the fun of it.... an attitude you can have when you have nothing to prove and don't need to compete with each other.
End of Line is a good one
You're excited to hear more Wilburys because the potential is so great. How could they not make great music.
This was a George song actually, with all the members throwing lines in here and there. That is how they wrote the whole album. George had something to record and he ran into him, who needed to get his guitar from his place, and go to his house to record.......It all happened accidentally.
And they were all in the same room. Also, it works because you know all the voices -- wonderful recognition factor. It is a "fun" song. They were having fun and decided to share it with us.
Roy Orbinson went out on top.
Great band of all time 💖
Andy nailed it when he said how he could imagine this song being heard in all kinds of different places. I think you'd enjoy listening to the whole album more than cherry picking songs and listening to them over a long period of time.