A host of new and established International singer-songwriters performed many of Roy Orbison’s greatest hits in their own style before a specially invited audience. The tribute concert was hosted by Barbara Orbison, Roy Orbison Jr. and Alex Orbison and held at the Gibson Guitar Studio in London. The concert was timed to mark the birthday of the legendary Roy Orbison (April 23, 1936) and to celebrate his life and legacy. The event was also an opportunity to unveil the new Limited Edition Epiphone Roy Orbison “Oh, Pretty Woman” 12 String acoustic guitar which was played by various artists including Ex-Fleetwood Mac and John Fogerty guitarist Billy Burnett. The tribute concert saw musicians from around the world celebrate Roy’s life and music by recording and performing songs written by the great Roy Orbison. All the songs will be available to download on iTunes from April 27.
The birthday tribute concert opened with a touching introduction from Barbara Orbison who talked openly about the life of Roy Orbison and what the event would have meant to him. She then handed over to her son Alex Orbison who introduced each act onto the stage. Many of Roy Orbison’s classic songs were performed live including “Blue Bayou,” “Paperboy,” “Crying,” “Ooby Dooby,” “Only The Lonely,” “You’ve Got It” and “Oh, Pretty Woman.”
Artists who performed live at the Roy Orbison Birthday Tribute Concert included Mary N'Daiye, Phil Marshall, Vera Bohl, Findlay Brown, Gary Nock, Ginger Redcliff, Honey Ryder, Kaycee Cole, Reid & Stanners, Netsayi, Smoke Fairies, Tone Damli Aagerge, Peter Conway, Katie Vogel, Billy Burnett, Fyfe Dangerfield (The Guillemots), Aruba Red and Dave Stark Five Group.
The night climaxed with Roy’s classic “Oh, Pretty Woman” which saw all the performing artists take to the stage to sing the final verse and chorus. A specially made birthday cake in the shape of the Epiphone Roy Orbison “Oh, Pretty Woman” guitar was cut after everyone sang “Happy Birthday” to Roy. It was a rousing end to a spectacular and memorable show. The Limited Edition Epiphone Roy Orbison “Oh, Pretty Woman” 12 String Acoustic guitar hits shops worldwide in September 2009.
For more information on the Limited Edition Epiphone Roy Orbison “Oh,Pretty Woman” 12 String Acoustic guitar please visit epiphone.com.
For more information on Roy Orbison please visit royorbison.com.
Photo Credit: John Rahim