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Reevaluating Roy Orbison's "Sun Years."

Rock historian Ed Ward looks back on Roy Orbison's early career at Sun Records. Ed says that early work shows that Orbison was a more versatile performer that his big hits would indicate.

06:52
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Other segments from the episode on November 21, 1989

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, November 21, 1989: Interview with Johnny Otis; Commentary on Roy Orbison's early career; Interview with Jerry Orbach; Review of Wole Soyinka's memoir "Isara."
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22:22

Rhythm and Blues Pioneer Johnny Otis.

Bandleader, singer, songwriter, and talent scout Johnny Otis. His musical career spans the big band era, rhythm and blues, and rock and roll. In the 40's he played and traveled with the big bands, with the Ink Spots and Louis Jordan. Later, with a pared down band, he was on the forefront of the rhythm and blues. He's credited with discovering Etta James, Big Mama Thornton, Jackie Wilson and Ernestine Anderson.

Interview

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06:00

Remembering Roy Orbison

Orbison had a legendary, operatic voice. He was shy by nature; years after weathering the tragic deaths of his wife and children, Orbison had recently started coming out of his shell, and joined the all-star band the Traveling Wilburys. He died of heart failure on December 6th.

Obituary

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