Roy Orbison And The Quote He Scribbled On A Studio Wall: “Let Them Feel It, Even If It Breaks Them”

April 2, 2025

In the dimly lit recording studio of Sun Records in 1963, Roy Orbison stood before a blank wall, his heart heavy with emotion. The room was filled with the lively hum of musicians tuning their instruments and the soft, electric buzz of anticipation. But in that moment, all he could feel was the weight of his own struggles. Roy had been through a lot: the tragic loss of his wife and the challenges of the music industry that often seemed unwelcoming. As he took a breath to steady himself, his eyes wandered to the wall, and he picked up a marker. With a swift, determined hand, he wrote the words that would resonate deeply with him, and with countless fans: “Let them feel it, even if it breaks them.”

This quote reflected the essence of Roy’s music. He believed that a song should touch the soul, that it should stir deep emotions in listeners, whether those emotions were joy, sadness, or longing. Music was more than just sounds; it was a way to connect with others and share experiences that words alone could not capture. With his hauntingly beautiful voice, Roy poured every ounce of his heart into his songs, from “Only the Lonely” to “Crying.” Each note was a testament to his belief that vulnerability could be a source of strength. He knew that true artistry meant opening oneself up to the world, regardless of the risk of being hurt.

As he recorded, the studio came alive. Each session became a cathartic release for Roy. He sang with passion, drawing from his own heartbreak and joy. The musicians surrounding him were swept along by his fervor, and the walls of that studio bore witness to the raw emotion spilling forth. Those who heard him could not help but feel the depth of his sincerity. The music that emerged from those sessions was not just popular; it became a lifeline for many listening souls who identified with his pain and triumphs. The bond between Roy and his fans grew stronger, fueled by this shared experience of emotion.

When “Oh, Pretty Woman” was released in 1964, it soared to the top of the charts, catapulting Roy into stardom. But even with success, he remained grounded. Roy understood that fame was fleeting, but the impact of heartfelt music was eternal. His quote, scrawled on that wall, reminded him of his purpose—to let people feel and to create songs that resonated with their own lives. He would often reflect on those words during tough times, when the music industry seemed to shift beneath his feet or when personal challenges threatened to overwhelm him.

Despite facing numerous obstacles throughout his career, including personal losses and changing musical tastes, Roy never wavered in his belief that music could heal. He continued to write and record, turning his pain into art and inspiring others to do the same. Many artists have since cited him as a significant influence, and his legacy is a testament to the power of emotional expression. The music that once flowed from that studio echoed far beyond its walls, proving that vulnerability can indeed create beauty. His journey reminds us all that, even when it feels like we might break, there is strength in our struggles, and we can create something truly wonderful from them.

Roy Orbison’s story is one of resilience and the unwavering belief that music could forge connections across distances and differences. His quote serves as an enduring reminder that it’s okay to feel deeply and to share that feeling with the world. So, let them feel it, even if it breaks them, because through this vulnerability, we can find hope and healing, just as Roy did through his remarkable life and unforgettable songs.