4 Fantastic and Unforgettable Album-Closers by Electric Light Orchestra

Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) created one of the most distinguished catalogs in classic rock, featuring remarkable album-ending tracks. Their unique blend of rock with classical influences, guided by Jeff Lynne's creative vision, set them apart in the 1970s and 1980s.

Jeff Lynne’s Signature Style and Production

Lynne’s talent as a producer and songwriter ensured ELO consistently delivered exceptional material. Across 15 studio albums, the band produced several memorable closing songs that left lasting impressions.

Epic Closing of Out Of The Blue: "Wild West Hero"

Out Of The Blue is a wildly diverse double album bursting with memorable tracks, born from a brief creative surge after Lynne overcame severe writer’s block. The closing song, “Wild West Hero,” ends the album on an epic note.

“Wild West Hero” centers on a theme close to Lynne’s heart: the everyday person who dreams of a more exciting life. This idea also shaped ELO’s acclaimed 1974 album Eldorado.

The track features saloon-style piano played by Melvyn Gale, usually the band's cellist. The song gradually builds from gentle verses to powerful, storming choruses, with Lynne’s vocals surrounded by a swirling musical storm.

Humorous Note on Discovery

At the time, fans joked that the album Discovery should have been titled “Disco-Very,” reflecting the disco influences present in parts of the record.

Author’s summary: ELO’s fusion of classical and rock elements, coupled with Jeff Lynne’s creative genius, led to iconic album closers that remain vivid highlights in rock history.

American Songwriter — 2025-11-07