Roy Orbison, the bespectacled Texan crooner with the operatic voice, gifted the world with a catalog of emotionally charged ballads, and among them, “Crying” stands as a monumental testament to his artistry. Released in 1961, this iconic track cemented Orbison’s status as a master of heartbreak, soaring to number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and establishing him as a leading figure in the burgeoning rock and roll scene. Orbison’s success wasn’t limited to “Crying”; he amassed numerous top-ten hits throughout his career, earning him a Grammy Award and induction into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, accolades that underscore his profound impact on music.
“Crying” isn’t just a song; it’s a visceral experience. Its heart-wrenching lyrics delve into the profound pain of unrequited love, chronicling the agonizing realization that the object of one’s affection has moved on. The listener is drawn into the narrator’s vulnerability as he witnesses his former lover with someone new, forcing him to confront the raw emotions he had desperately tried to suppress. The song’s power lies in its universality; the themes of heartbreak and loss resonate deeply with listeners, allowing them to connect with the narrative on a personal level.
The public’s reaction to “Crying” was overwhelmingly positive, resonating with audiences across generations. Its enduring popularity is evidenced by countless covers by other artists, including a duet version with k.d. lang, further solidifying its place in the musical canon. Listeners consistently praise Orbison’s powerful vocal performance, highlighting the raw emotion he conveys through his voice. “Crying” continues to evoke a sense of nostalgic longing and remains a timeless anthem for anyone who has experienced the sting of heartbreak.