SongLink editor David Stark's band the Dave Stark Five were among the specially invited guest artists at the recent Roy Orbison Birthday Bash and iTunes/CD launch, held at the Gibson Studio in London on April 23rd, which would have been Roy's 73rd birthday. The event was organised by Roy's widow Barbara Orbison who introduced the show, along with their two sons Roy Jr. and Alex, who hosted the evening.

The Dave Stark Five backed newcomer Phil Marshall on the Traveling Wilburys' classic "Handle With Care" before closing the show with their version of "Oh, Pretty Woman" - but not before all the acts on the night took to the stage for a rousing reprise of the song, followed by "Happy Birthday" and the cutting of a great cake in the shape of a guitar. Gibson also used the event top launch its new Epiphone "Pretty Woman" 12 string model in honour of Orbison, which will be available in the shops from September.

The show was also filmed and recorded, while almost 30 new versions of Roy Orbison songs have just been released on iTunes under the title "Under The Covers", including tracks by Aruba Red, the Carter Twins, Katie Vogel, Smoke Fairies and others - as well as the Dave Stark's live version of "Oh Pretty Woman", recorded at the Cricketers Club last year. To buy or play samples go to iTunes and search Roy Orbison "Under The Covers" (Various Artists).

Links:

Roy Orbison News

Roy Orbison Birthday Bash

Dave Stark Five at the Roy Tribute

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