About the Song
In the realm of classic rock and roll, few songs evoke such a raw and emotional response as Roy Orbison’s 1961 masterpiece, “Crying.” With its haunting melody, Orbison’s soaring vocals, and a lyrical tapestry of longing and desperation, “Crying” has become an indelible mark on the musical landscape, captivating listeners for generations.
A Song of Unrequited Love
At the heart of “Crying” lies a tale of unrequited love, a desperate yearning for a connection that seems forever out of reach. Orbison’s impassioned delivery captures the depths of this emotion, his voice trembling with vulnerability as he pleads with his beloved to reciprocate his affections.
The song’s lyrics, penned by Orbison and Joe Melson, paint a vivid picture of the narrator’s emotional journey. The opening lines, “I had to escape / The city was sticky and cruel,” set the stage for a sense of urgency and desperation. The narrator is driven by an overwhelming desire to be with his lover, willing to defy the odds and overcome any obstacle that stands in his way.
As the song progresses, the narrator’s desperation intensifies. He dreams of his lover’s embrace, his desire burning within him like a fever. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Crying to get to you / Is that all right?,” captures the raw desperation of the narrator’s pleas.
Orbison’s Vocal Prowess
Orbison’s vocal performance on “Crying” is nothing short of mesmerizing. His voice, a blend of power and vulnerability, conveys the emotional depth of the lyrics with stunning clarity. He effortlessly navigates the song’s soaring melodies, his voice resonating with an intensity that is both captivating and heartbreaking.
The song’s instrumentation, featuring a lush arrangement of strings, drums, and piano, perfectly complements Orbison’s vocals. The dramatic swells of the strings underscore the narrator’s emotional turmoil, while the driving rhythm of the drums adds a sense of urgency to the song’s message.
A Timeless Classic
“Crying” has endured the test of time, remaining a beloved classic in the world of music. Its powerful lyrics, Orbison’s captivating vocals, and timeless production have made it a staple of rock and roll radio playlists for decades.
The song has also been covered by numerous artists, including Don McLean, whose 1980 version reached number one in the UK charts. However, Orbison’s original rendition remains the definitive version, a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the most iconic singers of all time.
“Crying” is more than just a song; it is an emotional journey, a raw expression of love, loss, and longing. Orbison’s masterful performance and the song’s timeless lyrics have ensured its place among the greatest songs ever written.