About the song
There are few voices in music as instantly recognizable or as emotionally resonant as that of Roy Orbison. His unique baritone, with its rich, tremulous quality, has captivated audiences for generations. One song, in particular, stands as a testament to Orbison’s ability to convey raw, unfiltered emotion: “Crying.”
Released in 1961, “Crying” quickly became a signature tune for Orbison and a staple of the rock and roll era. The song is a masterclass in simplicity and effectiveness. With its straightforward melody and heartfelt lyrics, it paints a vivid picture of a man consumed by heartbreak. The song’s title, “Crying,” is repeated throughout, becoming a haunting refrain that lingers long after the final note.
What makes “Crying” so special? It’s a combination of factors:
- Orbison’s vocal performance: His voice is the star of the show. It’s filled with a raw vulnerability that makes it impossible not to empathize with the character he’s portraying. The way he delivers the lyrics, with such intensity and emotion, is simply breathtaking.
- The simplicity of the lyrics: The lyrics are deceptively simple, but they convey a depth of feeling that is truly remarkable. The song is about a man who is completely consumed by his heartbreak. He is unable to move on, and he is haunted by the memory of his lost love.
- The arrangement: The arrangement is sparse and understated, allowing Orbison’s voice to take center stage. The use of strings adds a touch of melancholy, perfectly complementing the theme of the song.
“Crying” is a song that has been covered countless times by artists from all genres. However, it’s Orbison’s original version that remains the definitive one. His performance is so powerful and moving that it’s difficult to imagine anyone else doing it justice.
Why does “Crying” continue to resonate with listeners today? Perhaps it’s because the pain of heartbreak is a universal experience. We’ve all been there, and we can all relate to the feelings that Orbison expresses in this song. Or maybe it’s simply the timeless quality of the music. Whatever the reason, “Crying” is a song that will continue to touch hearts for generations to come.
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Lyrics
I was alright for a while, I could smile for a while
Then I saw you last night, you held my hand so tight
When you stopped to say, “Hello”
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 true, 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,
Crying, crying, over you
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