Imagine a supergroup so legendary, it could have redefined rock and roll history. George Harrison, a Beatle, envisioned the Traveling Wilburys, a band brimming with musical giants. But who else did he think should have joined this all-star lineup? Let's dive in!
When George Harrison first dreamt up the Traveling Wilburys, it felt almost too good to be true. The idea of a band composed of some of the greatest rock and roll artists ever assembled seemed like a fantasy. Yet, despite the immediate camaraderie among the original members, Harrison believed there was room for more talent in the mix.
For Harrison, the Wilburys were a fun side project. He wasn't keen on being a solo artist, so with Roy Orbison and Bob Dylan in the group, he could share the spotlight, as heard in songs like 'Handle With Care' and 'End of the Line.' Harrison never wanted to limit the possibilities of who could join the band.
He even expressed to Tom Petty his wish that John Lennon had lived long enough to become a member. But the tragic loss of Orbison cast a shadow over everything before their next album. Orbison's voice was one of the best the world had ever known, and while they considered new members, replacing Orbison was never an option.
Their second album did feature special guests behind the scenes, such as Gary Moore. This might have been due to Harrison's close relationship with the guitar legend. Any musician joining the band needed to understand the essence of real rock and roll.
Many of their greatest songs used the same blues progressions Harrison had used before The Beatles. Since Petty and Jeff Lynne understood this music, Harrison felt that only those who had taught them the ropes could join.
But here's where it gets controversial... When discussing potential new members, Harrison stated he preferred his favorite musicians over contemporary legends. He said that Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis could be Wilburys, but Hall and Oates couldn't. Keith Richards could, but not George Michael. This decision seemed to be based more on their musical styles than their talent.
While Michael and Hall & Oates had written great songs, their music didn't share the same roots as the Wilburys. They were more influenced by soul music, and while Harrison appreciated artists like Smokey Robinson, it wasn't the sound the Wilburys were after. The Wilburys were storytellers, and it's hard to imagine Daryl Hall fitting in with the group's style, as seen in the 'End of the Line' video.
And this is the part most people miss... Harrison's idea of expanding the group was reminiscent of his desire to collaborate with others, like his attempts to get Bob Dylan in a band during the 'Get Back' project. If he could achieve that dream, why not invite Little Richard to add some excitement?
What do you think? Do you agree with Harrison's choices? Who else do you think would have been a great addition to the Traveling Wilburys? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
