Roy Orbison, the bespectacled crooner with the impossibly powerful and haunting voice, cemented his place in music history with his operatic and emotionally raw ballads. Born in Texas in 1936, Orbison’s distinctive style, a blend of country, rock and roll, and classical influences, earned him numerous accolades including a Grammy Award and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His music resonated deeply with audiences worldwide, propelling hits like “Only the Lonely,” “Oh, Pretty Woman,” and, of course, the devastatingly beautiful “Crying.”
Released in 1961, “Crying” is perhaps one of Orbison’s most recognizable and emotionally charged performances. The song’s distinctive arrangement, featuring soaring strings and Orbison’s signature vibrato, creates a palpable atmosphere of heartbreak and despair. “Crying” is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and the profound sadness that accompanies seeing a former lover with someone new. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man struggling to maintain composure as he witnesses the happiness he can no longer share. He masks his pain with a smile, but inwardly, he is “crying, crying, crying, crying” over the loss.
“Crying” topped charts internationally upon its release, solidifying Orbison’s reputation as a master of the heartbreak ballad. Beyond its commercial success, the song resonated deeply with listeners who found solace and understanding in Orbison’s raw portrayal of emotional vulnerability. Audience feedback consistently highlights the song’s powerful emotional impact, with many citing its ability to evoke feelings of sadness, longing, and empathy. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its universal theme of lost love and the enduring power of Orbison’s unmatched vocal delivery, making “Crying” a cornerstone of his legendary career and a lasting testament to the human experience of heartbreak.