About the song
“Cry to Me” by Solomon Burke is a timeless classic that captures the raw emotion and soulful depth of early rhythm and blues. Released in 1962, this song has cemented itself as a staple in the genre, thanks to Burke’s powerful delivery and the song’s evocative lyrics. Written by the prolific songwriter Bert Berns, “Cry to Me” showcases Burke’s extraordinary vocal prowess and emotional intensity.
Solomon Burke, often referred to as the “King of Rock ‘n’ Soul,” was known for his ability to convey deep emotion through his voice. “Cry to Me” is a perfect example of this talent. The song was released under Atlantic Records, a label renowned for its impressive roster of soul and R&B artists. Burke’s rendition of “Cry to Me” became one of his signature hits, highlighting his ability to bridge the gap between gospel fervor and secular themes.
The song itself is a heartfelt plea for comfort and companionship. With lines like “When your baby leaves you all alone / And nobody calls you on the phone,” the lyrics immediately resonate with anyone who has ever felt the sting of loneliness. Burke’s voice, filled with both sorrow and warmth, invites the listener to find solace in shared sorrow. This universal theme of seeking comfort in times of distress is what makes “Cry to Me” so enduring.
“Cry to Me” achieved significant commercial success, reaching number 5 on the Billboard R&B charts and number 44 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its impact was not just limited to the charts; the song became a beloved track that would go on to influence countless artists and be featured in various films and television shows. Notably, it gained renewed popularity when it was featured in the iconic 1987 film “Dirty Dancing,” introducing it to a new generation of listeners.
The production of “Cry to Me” is equally notable, featuring a blend of lush instrumentation and a steady, gospel-influenced rhythm. The arrangement complements Burke’s vocal performance, creating a rich, immersive listening experience. The song’s arrangement, with its gentle piano, emotive strings, and soulful backing vocals, amplifies the emotional weight of the lyrics.
In the broader context of Solomon Burke’s career, “Cry to Me” stands out as one of his most memorable and impactful songs. Burke, who was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001, left a lasting legacy in the world of music. His influence can be heard in the work of many contemporary soul and R&B artists.
In summary, “Cry to Me” by Solomon Burke is more than just a song; it’s a poignant expression of human emotion that continues to resonate with audiences across generations. Its combination of heartfelt lyrics, soulful delivery, and timeless appeal ensures that it remains a beloved classic in the annals of soul music.
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Lyrics
When your baby leaves you all alone
And nobody calls you on the phone
A-don’t you feel like a-cryin’?
Don’t you feel like cryin’?
Well, here I am, a-honey
A-come on, well, cry to me
When you’re all alone in your lonely room
And there’s nothing but the smell of her perfume
A-don’t you feel like a-cryin’?
A-don’t you feel like cryin’?
A-don’t you feel like a-cryin’?
A-come on, come on, cry to me
Whoa
Nothing can be sadder than a glass of wine alone
Loneliness, loneliness, such a waste of your time, oh yes
You don’t ever have to walk alone, you see
A-come on, take my hand, and baby, won’t you walk with me?
Whoa yeah
When you’re waitin’ for a voice to come
In the night, but there’s no one
A-don’t you feel like a-cryin’? (Cry to me)
Don’t you feel like cryin’? (Cry to me)
A-don’t you feel like a-c-cry, c-cry, c-cry-cry (cry to me)
Cry, c-cry, c-cry-cry, cryin’? (Cry to me)
A-don’t you feel like a-cry, c-cry, c-cry-cry (cry to me)
C-cry, c-cry, c-cry-cry, cryin’? (Cry to me)