Roy Orbison and Friends: A Black and White Night Poster

Roy Orbison and Friends: A Black and White Night 1988

★ 7.513 votes64 min📅 1988-01-03

"Roy Orbison performs in a 1940s-type nightclub setting"

Captured in a single, intimate evening at Los Angeles' historic Coconut Grove, *Roy Orbison and Friends: A Black and White Night* (1988) delivers a mesmerizing snapshot of rock music's golden era.

Director: Tony Mitchell

Cast

Roy Orbison
Roy Orbison
Self - Lead Vocals/Guitar
Jackson Browne
Jackson Browne
Self - Backing Vocals
T Bone Burnett
T Bone Burnett
Self - Guitar
Elvis Costello
Elvis Costello
Self - Guitar/Electric Organ/Harmonica
J. Steven Soles
Self - Backing Vocals
Bonnie Raitt
Bonnie Raitt
Self - Backing Vocals
Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen
Self - Vocals/Guitar
Tom Waits
Tom Waits
Self - Organ/Guitar
JD Souther
JD Souther
Self - Backing Vocals/Guitar
Jennifer Warnes
Jennifer Warnes
Self - Backing Vocals

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Roy Orbison and Friends: A Black and White Night (1988) about?

This concert film documents a one-of-a-kind live tribute to Roy Orbison, staged in a retro nightclub setting. The evening brings together a stellar lineup of rock and roll stars to perform his iconic songs, blending nostalgia with modern reverence for his unmatched voice.

Who directed Roy Orbison and Friends: A Black and White Night?

Director Tony Mitchell helmed this live tribute, capturing the magic of the event with a focus on authentic, unfiltered performances.

Who stars in Roy Orbison and Friends: A Black and White Night?

The film features Roy Orbison alongside Jackson Browne, Elvis Costello, T Bone Burnett, J. Steven Soles, and Bonnie Raitt, with additional appearances from Bruce Springsteen and Tom Waits.

Is Roy Orbison and Friends: A Black and White Night (1988) worth watching?

With its emotional performances and star-studded lineup, this concert film is a must-watch for fans of Roy Orbison and classic rock. While IMDb doesn't provide a rating, its cultural significance and star power make it a worthwhile experience for music lovers.

How long is Roy Orbison and Friends: A Black and White Night?

The runtime is 64 minutes, perfect for a concise but impactful viewing experience.

About Roy Orbison and Friends: A Black and White Night (1988) — Celebrating Orbison's Legacy in a Timeless Concert Film

Captured in a single, intimate evening at Los Angeles' historic Coconut Grove, *Roy Orbison and Friends: A Black and White Night* (1988) delivers a mesmerizing snapshot of rock music's golden era. Directed by Tony Mitchell, this evocative concert film transforms the stage into a retro nightclub where Roy Orbison's soaring vocals meet the electrifying energy of a who's who of 1980s rock royalty. With Jackson Browne's warm harmonies, Elvis Costello's sharp wit, and Bonnie Raitt's soulful presence, the film blends nostalgia with raw emotion. The black-and-white aesthetic heightens the timeless quality of the performances, inviting viewers to lose themselves in an evening of classic hits and heartfelt tributes.

This documentary isn't just a concert—it's a celebration of Orbison's enduring legacy, framed by the grit and glamour of a bygone era. The chemistry among the guest artists elevates each song into a shared moment of artistic kinship, from Bruce Springsteen's rugged intensity to k.d. lang's ethereal charm. Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering Orbison's magic for the first time, *A Black and White Night* offers a rare glimpse into the power of music to unite generations under one roof.