The Traveling Wilburys – End Of The Line

Introduction

End of the Line by The Traveling Wilburys is a feel-good anthem that closes out their debut album with a powerful message: life goes on, and everything will be all right. Released in 1988, the song features the voices of some of the biggest names in rock history—George Harrison, Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne, Bob Dylan, and Roy Orbison. It’s a bittersweet, uplifting track that celebrates life, friendship, and music.

Who Were The Traveling Wilburys?

The Traveling Wilburys were a rock supergroup formed in the late 1980s. The lineup was legendary:

• George Harrison (The Beatles)

• Jeff Lynne (Electric Light Orchestra)

• Roy Orbison (“Oh, Pretty Woman”)

• Tom Petty (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers)

• Bob Dylan (“Like a Rolling Stone”)

The group began as a casual collaboration but quickly became something bigger. Their chemistry was undeniable, and their music radiated fun, creativity, and mutual respect.

The Meaning Behind End of the Line

Despite its title, End of the Line is not a song about death or despair. Quite the opposite—it’s a song of acceptance, resilience, and optimism. The lyrics speak to life’s journey, suggesting that even when things don’t go as planned, “it’s all right.” Each member takes turns singing lines, adding their own unique voice and personality to the track.

One of the most touching aspects of the song is its subtle nod to the inevitable passage of time. It acknowledges life’s ups and downs, but assures the listener that things will work out in the end.

A Special Tribute to Roy Orbison

By the time the End of the Line music video was filmed, Roy Orbison had sadly passed away from a heart attack in December 1988. In the video, a rocking chair with a guitar is shown during his vocal parts—a poignant tribute to the “Big O.” It was a subtle but powerful way of honoring his memory and contributions to the band.

Chart Performance and Legacy

End of the Line was released as a single in 1989 and reached the Top 40 in several countries, including the U.S., U.K., and Canada. The song received critical acclaim for its heartfelt lyrics, harmonies, and the seamless blending of the artists’ voices.

Today, End of the Line remains one of The Traveling Wilburys’ most recognizable and enduring tracks. It’s often used in films and television to evoke a sense of reflection, closure, or even peaceful celebration.

Why This Song Still Matters

In a world that often feels uncertain, End of the Line offers comfort and reassurance. It’s a reminder that no matter where you are in life, you’re not alone—and that it’s okay to keep moving forward with hope.

For fans of classic rock, this song is a perfect example of what happens when legendary musicians come together for the pure joy of creating. It’s not just a song; it’s a celebration of life, legacy, and the unbreakable bond of music.

Conclusion

End of the Line is a testament to the timeless appeal of The Traveling Wilburys. With its heartfelt lyrics, iconic harmonies, and powerful sense of camaraderie, it captures the magic of five musical giants coming together at the right time. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or revisiting an old favorite, this song reminds us that at the end of the line, it’s all going to be all right.

End of the Line by The Traveling Wilburys is a feel-good anthem that closes out their debut album with a powerful message: life goes on, and everything will be all right. Released in 1988, the song features the voices of some of the biggest names in rock history—George Harrison, Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne, Bob Dylan, and Roy Orbison. It’s a bittersweet, uplifting track that celebrates life, friendship, and music.

Who Were The Traveling Wilburys?

The Traveling Wilburys were a rock supergroup formed in the late 1980s. The lineup was legendary:

• George Harrison (The Beatles)

• Jeff Lynne (Electric Light Orchestra)

• Roy Orbison (“Oh, Pretty Woman”)

• Tom Petty (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers)

• Bob Dylan (“Like a Rolling Stone”)

The group began as a casual collaboration but quickly became something bigger. Their chemistry was undeniable, and their music radiated fun, creativity, and mutual respect.

The Meaning Behind End of the Line

Despite its title, End of the Line is not a song about death or despair. Quite the opposite—it’s a song of acceptance, resilience, and optimism. The lyrics speak to life’s journey, suggesting that even when things don’t go as planned, “it’s all right.” Each member takes turns singing lines, adding their own unique voice and personality to the track.

One of the most touching aspects of the song is its subtle nod to the inevitable passage of time. It acknowledges life’s ups and downs, but assures the listener that things will work out in the end.

A Special Tribute to Roy Orbison

By the time the End of the Line music video was filmed, Roy Orbison had sadly passed away from a heart attack in December 1988. In the video, a rocking chair with a guitar is shown during his vocal parts—a poignant tribute to the “Big O.” It was a subtle but powerful way of honoring his memory and contributions to the band.

Chart Performance and Legacy

End of the Line was released as a single in 1989 and reached the Top 40 in several countries, including the U.S., U.K., and Canada. The song received critical acclaim for its heartfelt lyrics, harmonies, and the seamless blending of the artists’ voices.

Today, End of the Line remains one of The Traveling Wilburys’ most recognizable and enduring tracks. It’s often used in films and television to evoke a sense of reflection, closure, or even peaceful celebration.

Why This Song Still Matters

In a world that often feels uncertain, End of the Line offers comfort and reassurance. It’s a reminder that no matter where you are in life, you’re not alone—and that it’s okay to keep moving forward with hope.

For fans of classic rock, this song is a perfect example of what happens when legendary musicians come together for the pure joy of creating. It’s not just a song; it’s a celebration of life, legacy, and the unbreakable bond of music.

Conclusion

End of the Line is a testament to the timeless appeal of The Traveling Wilburys. With its heartfelt lyrics, iconic harmonies, and powerful sense of camaraderie, it captures the magic of five musical giants coming together at the right time. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or revisiting an old favorite, this song reminds us that at the end of the line, it’s all going to be all right.

End of the Line by The Traveling Wilburys is a feel-good anthem that closes out their debut album with a powerful message: life goes on, and everything will be all right. Released in 1988, the song features the voices of some of the biggest names in rock history—George Harrison, Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne, Bob Dylan, and Roy Orbison. It’s a bittersweet, uplifting track that celebrates life, friendship, and music.

Who Were The Traveling Wilburys?

The Traveling Wilburys were a rock supergroup formed in the late 1980s. The lineup was legendary:

• George Harrison (The Beatles)

• Jeff Lynne (Electric Light Orchestra)

• Roy Orbison (“Oh, Pretty Woman”)

• Tom Petty (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers)

• Bob Dylan (“Like a Rolling Stone”)

The group began as a casual collaboration but quickly became something bigger. Their chemistry was undeniable, and their music radiated fun, creativity, and mutual respect.

The Meaning Behind End of the Line

Despite its title, End of the Line is not a song about death or despair. Quite the opposite—it’s a song of acceptance, resilience, and optimism. The lyrics speak to life’s journey, suggesting that even when things don’t go as planned, “it’s all right.” Each member takes turns singing lines, adding their own unique voice and personality to the track.

One of the most touching aspects of the song is its subtle nod to the inevitable passage of time. It acknowledges life’s ups and downs, but assures the listener that things will work out in the end.

A Special Tribute to Roy Orbison

By the time the End of the Line music video was filmed, Roy Orbison had sadly passed away from a heart attack in December 1988. In the video, a rocking chair with a guitar is shown during his vocal parts—a poignant tribute to the “Big O.” It was a subtle but powerful way of honoring his memory and contributions to the band.

Chart Performance and Legacy

End of the Line was released as a single in 1989 and reached the Top 40 in several countries, including the U.S., U.K., and Canada. The song received critical acclaim for its heartfelt lyrics, harmonies, and the seamless blending of the artists’ voices.

Today, End of the Line remains one of The Traveling Wilburys’ most recognizable and enduring tracks. It’s often used in films and television to evoke a sense of reflection, closure, or even peaceful celebration.

Why This Song Still Matters

In a world that often feels uncertain, End of the Line offers comfort and reassurance. It’s a reminder that no matter where you are in life, you’re not alone—and that it’s okay to keep moving forward with hope.

For fans of classic rock, this song is a perfect example of what happens when legendary musicians come together for the pure joy of creating. It’s not just a song; it’s a celebration of life, legacy, and the unbreakable bond of music.

Conclusion

End of the Line is a testament to the timeless appeal of The Traveling Wilburys. With its heartfelt lyrics, iconic harmonies, and powerful sense of camaraderie, it captures the magic of five musical giants coming together at the right time. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or revisiting an old favorite, this song reminds us that at the end of the line, it’s all going to be all right.

Lyrics: End Of The Line 

Well it’s all right, riding around in the breeze
Well it’s all right, if you live the life you please
Well it’s all right, doing the best you can
Well it’s all right, as long as you lend a handYou can sit around and wait for the phone to ring (End of the Line)
Waiting for someone to tell you everything (End of the Line)

Sit around and wonder what tomorrow will bring (End of the Line)
Maybe a diamond ringWell it’s all right, even if they say you’re wrong
Well it’s all right, sometimes you gotta be strong
Well it’s all right, As long as you got somewhere to lay
Well it’s all right, everyday is Judgment Day 

Maybe somewhere down the road aways (End of the Line)
You’ll think of me, wonder where I am these days (End of the Line)
Maybe somewhere down the road when somebody plays (End of the Line)
Purple haze

Well it’s all right, even when push comes to shove
Well it’s all right, if you got someone to love
Well it’s all right, everything’ll work out fine
Well it’s all right, we’re going to the end of the line

Don’t have to be ashamed of the car I drive (End of the Line)
I’m just glad to be here, happy to be alive (End of the Line)
It don’t matter if you’re by my side (End of the Line)
I’m satisfied

Well it’s all right, even if you’re old and gray
Well it’s all right, you still got something to say
Well it’s all right, remember to live and let live
Well it’s all right, the best you can do is forgive

Well it’s all right, riding around in the breeze
Well it’s all right, if you live the life you please
Well it’s all right, even if the sun don’t shine
Well it’s all right, we’re going to the end of the line