About The Song
“California Blue” is a heartfelt song by Roy Orbison, a legendary American singer-songwriter known for his emotive voice and profound lyrics. Released in 1989 as part of his final studio album, Mystery Girl, “California Blue” was co-written by Orbison, Jeff Lynne (of Electric Light Orchestra), and Tom Petty, both of whom contributed to the album’s production. The song’s creation was part of Orbison’s remarkable career resurgence in the late 1980s, following his involvement with the supergroup Traveling Wilburys. Tragically, Orbison passed away in December 1988, just months before the album’s release, lending an even deeper poignancy to its tracks, including “California Blue.”
The song encapsulates a longing for home and a sense of melancholic nostalgia, as it narrates the story of someone yearning for California’s sunlit skies and warm breezes. With lines like “Still miss the warmth of the sun,” Orbison’s unparalleled voice conveys a bittersweet blend of hope and sorrow. The dreamy, mid-tempo melody, bolstered by Lynne’s signature production style, features rich harmonies and a blend of acoustic and electric instrumentation, giving it a timeless quality.
“California Blue” didn’t become a significant chart-topping hit in the United States, but it garnered considerable airplay and appreciation in Europe. The Mystery Girl album itself was a commercial success, peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 chart and achieving Platinum certification in several countries. Though “California Blue” wasn’t released as a single in the U.S., it charted modestly in other regions, contributing to the album’s overall acclaim.
The song has been celebrated as one of Orbison’s late-career gems, often viewed as a testament to his enduring talent. Its themes of longing and nostalgia resonate universally, making it a standout track that complements other hits on Mystery Girl, such as the globally successful “You Got It.” Today, “California Blue” remains a cherished piece of Orbison’s legacy, highlighting his ability to connect deeply with listeners through his music, even during his final days.
Video
Lyric
Working all day and the sun don’t shine
Trying to get by and I’m just killing time
I feel the rain fall the whole night through
Far away from you California blueCalifornia blue dreaming all alone
Nothing else to do California blue
Everyday I pray I’ll be on my way
Saving love for you California blueOne sunny day, I’ll get back again
Somehow, someway but I don’t know when
California blue, California blueLiving my life with you on my mind
Thinking of things that I left far behind
It’s been so long doing all I can do
To get back to you California blueCalifornia blue
(California blue)
Dreaming all alone
(California blue)Nothing else to do
(California blue)
California blue
Everyday I pray I’ll be on my way
Saving love for you California blueOne sunny day I’ll get back again
Somehow, someway but I don’t know when
California blue, California blueStill missing you California blue
Still missing you California blue
Still missing you California blue
One of the best voices e
Ever
He’s always been one of my favorite singers. When I was young and still is now that I’m not young. I do not remember this song. Wish I did. I love it.