Don’s baritone voice focussed on the melody while Phil had to watch onstage so he would know when to come in.
“It’s like playing tennis with someone who is really great,” the latter said. “You can’t let your mind wander for even a microsecond, or you’ll be left behind.”
Tributes have been puring in for Don online. The late Roy Orbison’s official account posted: “Roy Orbison loved them as friends and looked up to them as musicians.
“They helped Roy become a songwriter, move to Nashville and much, much more. Thank You Don Everly #doneverly.”
US writer David Wild continued: “So sad to hear about the passing of #DonEverly. Without #TheEverlyBrothers, the Beatles sound and much of Rock History seems unimaginable. Don wrote this song and I like to think he & Phil are reunited & singing together in a better place tonight.”