About the song
“End of the Line” stands as a vibrant testament to the collaborative spirit and musical genius of the Traveling Wilburys, a British-American supergroup that brought together some of the most influential artists of the late 20th century. The song, featured as the final track on their debut album *Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1*, was released as a single in January 1989, following the album’s October 1988 release. It captures the unique essence of the group, blending the distinct voices and talents of George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison, and Tom Petty, while Bob Dylan, despite not singing lead on this track, contributed to the backing vocals and acoustic guitar.
Written primarily by George Harrison, “End of the Line” reflects the collaborative ethos of the Wilburys project, with all five members receiving songwriting credits. The track showcases the group’s distinctive sound, featuring Harrison, Lynne, and Orbison taking turns on the chorus, while Tom Petty delivers the verses with his characteristic flair. This arrangement highlights each member’s individual style while maintaining a cohesive group dynamic.
In terms of chart performance, “End of the Line” achieved notable success, peaking at No. 63 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching No. 2 on the Album Rock Tracks chart in the United States. In the UK, the song climbed to No. 52 on the UK Singles Chart. Despite these moderate chart positions, the song’s infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences, solidifying its place in the hearts of fans.
The accompanying music video, directed by Willy Smax, features a whimsical and nostalgic setting—a moving passenger car pulled by a steam locomotive—symbolizing the journey and camaraderie of the Wilburys. The video cleverly includes a tribute to Roy Orbison, who had passed away before its filming, by showing a guitar in a rocking chair and a photograph of him during his vocals.
“End of the Line” has enjoyed a lasting presence in popular culture. It was used in the final episode of the British sitcom *One Foot in the Grave*, as well as in the American comedy *Parks and Recreation*. Its upbeat, feel-good nature has made it a popular choice for various media, including the trailers for *The Terminal* and *Knocked Up*, and even a tribute in the parody song “No Where Near the End of My Time” by Bob Rivers.
The song’s enduring appeal is also evident in its live performances, including Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ rendition during their 2008 North American tour. Its use in the 2016 Australian film *Red Dog: True Blue* and the 2023 Tom Hanks movie *A Man Called Otto* further attests to its timeless quality and widespread resonance.
“End of the Line” encapsulates the essence of the Traveling Wilburys—celebrating friendship, collaboration, and the joy of music—making it a fitting conclusion to their groundbreaking debut album.
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