About the song
“You Got It” stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Roy Orbison. Released in 1989, it became a posthumous chart-topper, a bittersweet culmination of Orbison’s artistic journey. Though credited as a solo single, the song’s origins are steeped in camaraderie. Orbison co-wrote “You Got It” with his fellow Traveling Wilburys, Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne, marking their first collaborative songwriting effort.
Composed during the 1987 Christmas season, the song’s warmth and sentimentality resonate deeply. Recorded in Mike Campbell’s Los Angeles garage, “You Got It” took shape in a casual, creative environment. Interestingly, the track featured contributions from not only Orbison, Petty, and Lynne, but also the legendary George Harrison, though he remained uncredited.
Released on January 3, 1989, the single served as the A-side with “The Only One” as its B-side. Tragically, Orbison had passed away from a heart attack just weeks prior on December 6, 1988. Despite these somber circumstances, “You Got It” soared commercially, reaching number nine on the US Billboard Hot 100 and becoming Orbison’s first top 10 hit in a quarter-century. Even more impressive, the song claimed the number one spot on the Adult Contemporary chart. Internationally, “You Got It” enjoyed similar success, reaching number three on the UK Singles Chart and landing within the top five in ten other countries.
The song’s music video incorporated footage of Orbison’s sole public performance of “You Got It” at the Diamond Awards Festival in Antwerp, Belgium, a mere 17 days before his passing. This poignant visual adds another layer of depth and emotion to the song’s message of unwavering devotion. A later version released in 2014 included additional footage of rehearsals and practice sessions, offering a glimpse into the creative process behind this timeless ballad.
Musically, “You Got It” showcases Orbison’s signature powerful yet nuanced vocals. The instrumentation, featuring electric and acoustic guitars, bass, synthesizer, piano, and drums, creates a lush soundscape that perfectly complements Orbison’s heartfelt delivery. “Cash Box” magazine aptly described the song as highlighting “Orbison’s distinctive vocal charge,” praising the “exotically melodic lift to the chorus.”
“You Got It” stands as a remarkable chapter in Roy Orbison’s career. It’s a song brimming with affection, a testament to the power of collaboration, and a poignant farewell from a musical icon. Even in its bittersweet context, the song’s enduring popularity speaks volumes about its enduring emotional resonance and Orbison’s unwavering place in music history.
Video
Lyrics
Every time I look into your loving eyes
I see a love that money just can’t buy
One look from you, I drift away
I pray that you are here to stayAnything you want, you got it
Anything you need, you got it
Anything at all, you got it, babyEvery time I hold you, I begin to understand
Everything about you tells me I’m your man
I live my life to be with you
No one can do the things you doAnything you want, you got it
Anything you need, you got it
Anything at all, you got it, babyAnything you want
(You got it)
Anything you need
(You got it)
Anything at all
(You got it)I’m glad to give my love to you
I know you feel the way I doAnything you want, you got it
Anything you need, you got it
Anything at all, you got it, babyAnything you want, you got it
Anything you need, you got it
Anything at all, you got it, babyAnything at all
Baby, you got it