About the song
There are songs that transcend time, that burrow deep into our souls and stay with us long after the final note fades. Roy Orbison’s “Crying” is undoubtedly one of those timeless classics. Originally released in 1961, this haunting ballad has been covered countless times, but perhaps no version is as memorable as the duet with the incomparable k.d. lang.
Released in 1987, the Orbison-Lang pairing of “Crying” was a match made in musical heaven. Orbison’s signature deep, resonant voice, filled with raw emotion, was the perfect counterpoint to Lang’s soulful and ethereal vocals. Together, they created a version of the song that was both familiar and entirely new.
One of the most striking aspects of this duet is the way in which it blends the old and the new. Orbison, a legend of the rock and roll era, brought a classic sound to the track, while Lang, a rising star of the contemporary music scene, infused it with a fresh energy. The result is a song that feels both timeless and modern.
The lyrics of “Crying” are simple yet evocative, painting a vivid picture of heartbreak and longing. The line “I’ve been crying all night long” is a universal sentiment that has resonated with listeners for generations. And yet, it is the way in which Orbison and Lang deliver these lyrics that truly sets their version apart. Their voices blend seamlessly, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that is both captivating and heartbreaking.
The music video for “Crying” is equally compelling. Shot in black and white, the video features Orbison and Lang performing the song in a dimly lit room. The minimalist setting allows the focus to remain on the singers and their powerful performances.
The duet between Orbison and Lang is a testament to the enduring power of music. It is a song that can move even the most hardened listener, and it is a reminder that great music can transcend generations. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Orbison and Lang or you’re discovering their music for the first time, “Crying” is a must-listen.
Video
Lyrics
I was alright for a while
I could smile for a while
But I saw you last night, you held my hand so tight
As you stopped to say, “Hello”
Oh, you wished me well, you couldn’t tellThat 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
But the touch of your hand
Can start me cryingI 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 beCrying over you
Crying over you
Yes, now you’re gone
And from this moment on
I’ll be crying
Crying
Crying
Crying
Yeah, crying
Crying
Over you