(Credits: Far Out / Jeff Lynne)
Sun 18 January 2026 9:56, UK
Jeff Lynne is widely recognised as a highly prolific and influential figure in the music industry. Over the course of the past 60 years, his accomplishments and impact have exceeded expectations, not only with Electric Light Orchestra but also through his collaborations with other esteemed artists, including Bob Dylan and George Harrison.
Lynne’s contributions to ELO are exceptional, with chart-toppers such as ‘Mr. Blue Sky’, ‘Don’t Bring Me Down’, and ‘Livin’ Thing’, among numerous others, solidifying their status as one of the most prosperous and impactful bands of the 1970s. Their music subsequently garnered widespread acclaim and garnered a devoted global following.
Lynne and ELO’s diverse style was inspired by their aim to capture the essence of The Beatles’ rock sound while incorporating orchestral elements. They pushed boundaries by exploring various sounds and genres, resulting in a fresh take on pop music. Similarly, Lynne’s musical tastes are equally broad, ranging from The Beatles’ albums to modern anti-folk and 1960s doo-wop.
Many of Lynne’s favourites evoke a comforting wave of nostalgia, like The Who’s Meaty Beaty Big and Bouncy and The Beatles’ Revolver. He also enjoys Roy Orbison’s Greatest Hits, describing the singer as “a beautiful guy” before adding: “He was so sweet. I mean, every song he’s done is my favourite. You can’t go wrong with them.”
Lynne’s ability to be seen as perhaps the ultimate producer can be best seen in his collaboration with Orbison. The gifted singer found a fellow friend who loved melodies and delicacy as much as him. Lynne made a name for himself by producing pristine and electric sounds for those he worked with, whether it was his own band or his later moments working behind the mixing desk instead of in front of the mic.
With Tom Petty, Traveling Wilburys, The Zombies, and The Beach Boys among his top favourites, Lynne’s admiration for Regina Spektor might raise eyebrows for some, especially considering that Far was released considerably later than the albums by the other artists on his list. Nonetheless, while he admits it’s “not an obvious pairing,” he was drawn to Spektor’s vocals, adding, “I just love her voice.”
Spektor became a major force in the early 2000s with her ability to not only bring in unique melodies and a carefully balanced and nuanced vocal tone, but her willingness to shape songs into narrative features, making her a prospect that swaths of every generation were captivated by.
Rather expectedly, however, The Beatles occupy two positions on Lynne’s list. Alongside Revolver, which he described as “tight and beautiful and punchy,” he also deemed ‘I Saw Her Standing There’ from Please Please Me “probably the greatest ever English rock ‘n’ roll song.”
While selections from the 21st century may appear sparse, Lynne’s favourites encompass a broad spectrum, reflecting his appreciation for both Beatles-inspired innovation and the enchanting soundscapes reminiscent of Spektor’s work. As the driving force behind ELO, his attraction to such an eclectic palette is understandable.
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