About the song
“Crying,” a heart-wrenching masterpiece, stands as a testament to the enduring power of music to evoke profound emotions. Penned by the iconic Roy Orbison and Joe Melson, the song first graced the world in 1961, quickly ascending to the number two spot on the US charts. Its impact, however, extended far beyond its initial release.
Orbison’s original version, a poignant exploration of heartbreak and longing, showcased his extraordinary vocal range and emotive delivery. The song’s composition is a masterful blend of country and rock elements, creating a rich and textured soundscape that perfectly complements the raw vulnerability of the lyrics. With its soaring strings, haunting melody, and Orbison’s signature vibrato, “Crying” became a benchmark for dramatic ballads.
The song’s legacy was further solidified in 1980 when Don McLean delivered a powerful cover that topped the UK charts. McLean’s interpretation infused the classic with a contemporary sensibility while preserving its emotional core. His version introduced “Crying” to a new generation, solidifying its status as a timeless anthem of heartbreak.
“Crying” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that has resonated with audiences for decades. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the universal language of emotion and the ability of music to transcend time and trends. Whether it’s Orbison’s original or McLean’s reimagining, “Crying” continues to move listeners and solidify its place as one of the greatest ballads of all time.
Note: This introduction provides a concise overview of the song’s history, highlighting its impact and the enduring appeal of its emotional core.
Video
Lyrics
I was all right for a while, I could smile for a while
But when I saw you last night, you held my hand so tight
When you stopped to say “Hello”
And though you wished me well, you couldn’t tell
That I’d been crying over you, crying over you
Then you said “so long” left me standing all alone
Alone and crying, crying, crying crying
It’s hard to understand that the touch of your hand
Can start me crying
I thought that I was over you but it’s tru-ue, so true
I love you even more than I did before but darling what can I do
For you don’t love me and I’ll always be
Crying over you, crying over you
Yes, now you’re gone and from this moment on
I’ll be crying, crying, crying, crying
Yeah crying, crying, over you