About the song
“End of the Line” stands as a poignant testament to the collaborative genius of the Traveling Wilburys, a British-American supergroup formed in the late 1980s. Released in October 1988 as the final track on their debut album, “Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1,” the song quickly became a defining piece of their musical legacy. Comprising rock legends George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison, Tom Petty, and Bob Dylan, the Wilburys embodied a unique blend of talent and camaraderie.
The song features a distinctive arrangement where each member takes turns singing lead vocals: George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, and Roy Orbison harmonize on the choruses, while Tom Petty handles the verses. Written primarily by George Harrison, the composition was credited to all five Wilburys, underscoring their collaborative ethos.
Upon its release, “End of the Line” made waves on both sides of the Atlantic. In the United States, it reached No. 63 on the Billboard Hot 100 and soared to No. 2 on the Album Rock Tracks chart. Its heartfelt lyrics and upbeat melody resonated with audiences, despite facing tough competition from other chart-topping hits.
The music video, directed by Willy Smax and filmed in Los Angeles, features a nostalgic journey aboard a passenger car pulled by a steam locomotive. Notably, the video pays tribute to Roy Orbison, who had passed away before its production. Orbison’s absence is poignantly represented by a guitar resting in a rocking chair and a photograph during his vocal segments.
Beyond its initial success, “End of the Line” has left an enduring legacy. It was prominently featured in various films and television shows, including the British sitcom “One Foot in the Grave” and the American comedy “Parks and Recreation.” Covers and parodies of the song have further cemented its place in pop culture.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers performed “End of the Line” live during their 2008 North American tour, keeping its spirit alive for a new generation of fans. Its inclusion in trailers for films like “The Terminal” and “Knocked Up” underscore its timeless appeal and universal resonance.
Today, “End of the Line” remains a cherished classic, symbolizing not just the culmination of a musical era but also the enduring friendship and artistic brilliance of the Traveling Wilburys. Its melodic charm and heartfelt lyrics continue to captivate listeners, ensuring its place among the great anthems of rock history.
Video
Lyrics
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 hand
You can sit around and wait for the phone to ring (at the end of the line)
Waiting for someone to tell you everything (at the end of the line, of the line)
Sit around and wonder what tomorrow will bring (at the end of the line)
Maybe a diamond ring
Well, 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, every day is Judgment Day
Maybe somewhere down the road aways (at the end of the line)
You’ll think of me and wonder where I am these days (at the end of the line, of the line)
Maybe somewhere down the road when somebody plays (at the 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 (at the end of the line)
I’m just glad to be here, happy to be alive (at the end of the line, of the line)
It don’t matter if you’re by my side (at the 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 (all right), riding around on the breeze
Well, it’s all right (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 (all right), we’re going to the end of the line