“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Some songs capture a specific time and place, evoking the nostalgia of a bygone era, and “Cryin’ Again” by The Oak Ridge Boys is one such piece. Released during the peak of the country quartet’s popularity, this song resonates with anyone who has experienced heartbreak and the longing that follows. I remember the first time I heard it – sitting in a small diner, where the soft hum of a jukebox brought life to this melancholic melody. It’s the kind of song that makes you pause and reflect, no matter where you are.
About The Composition
- Title: Cryin’ Again
- Composer: Rafe Van Hoy
- Premiere Date: 1978
- Album/Opus/Collection: Room Service
- Genre: Country
Background
“Cryin’ Again” was composed by Rafe Van Hoy, a renowned songwriter whose work has left a significant mark on the country music landscape. The song was released as part of the Oak Ridge Boys’ 1978 album, Room Service, a collection that saw the group transition fully from gospel to mainstream country. With its soulful lyrics and moving melody, the song became a staple of their live performances and showcased the group’s harmonization and emotive storytelling.
The Oak Ridge Boys were at a transformative point in their career when Room Service was released. Moving away from their gospel roots, they began embracing a more contemporary country sound, which allowed them to appeal to a broader audience. “Cryin’ Again” embodies this shift, maintaining the group’s rich vocal arrangements while exploring themes of love and loss in a way that resonated deeply with listeners of the time.
Musical Style
“Cryin’ Again” is defined by its smooth harmonies and traditional country instrumentation, featuring acoustic guitars, a gentle rhythm section, and a melodic steel guitar that punctuates the song’s emotional highs and lows. The arrangement is simple yet powerful, allowing the vocal harmonies to take center stage. The Oak Ridge Boys’ distinctive blend of baritone and tenor voices creates a lush, resonant sound that perfectly complements the song’s reflective lyrics. The restrained use of instrumentation draws attention to the lyrics, making the listener feel each note of sorrow and longing.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Cryin’ Again” delve into the familiar pain of lost love. It captures the moment when memories resurface, bringing a rush of emotions that feel almost physical. The repeated line “I’m cryin’ again” echoes the inescapable feeling of despair and the yearning that accompanies it. There’s a poignancy to the song’s simplicity, as it reflects a universal experience — the inability to move on when the heart is still bound to someone from the past.
Performance History
Following its release, “Cryin’ Again” quickly became a favorite among Oak Ridge Boys fans. The song has been featured in numerous concerts and live performances, showcasing the group’s harmonization prowess and emotional depth. Its reception was strong, particularly within the country music community, as it marked a successful departure from their earlier gospel-influenced sound.
Cultural Impact
“Cryin’ Again” is often cited as one of the pivotal tracks that helped cement The Oak Ridge Boys’ place in country music. It signaled their complete transition into mainstream country and set the stage for their future hits. While not as widely known as their later chart-toppers, the song holds a special place in the hearts of longtime fans and continues to be celebrated in retrospective collections and performances.
Legacy
The song’s lasting impact lies in its honesty and emotional resonance. Decades after its release, “Cryin’ Again” still speaks to anyone who has experienced heartache, making it a timeless piece in the Oak Ridge Boys’ repertoire. It serves as a reminder of the group’s versatility and ability to convey deep emotion through their music, regardless of genre.
Conclusion
“Cryin’ Again” is a gem from The Oak Ridge Boys’ catalog that deserves more recognition for its lyrical beauty and emotional depth. If you haven’t listened to it yet, I highly recommend starting with their 1978 album Room Service to experience the song in its original context. It’s the kind of track that tugs at your heartstrings and leaves a lasting impression, long after the final note fades away.
Video
Lyrics
You told me that our love was forever
But you never really meant it that way
You said we had a sweet situation
But I’m waking up without you today
Cryin’ again
We’re out of love again
Cryin’ again
Like we’ve nearly always been
Cryin’ again
I wonder when I won’t be cryin’ again
I thought we had a real understanding
But you never understood what I said
The magic didn’t last like we planned it
But we’ve wasted all the feelings instead
Cryin’ again
We’re out of love again
Cryin’ again
Like we’ve nearly always been
Cryin’ again
I wonder when I won’t be cryin’ again
Cryin’ again
We’re out of love again
Cryin’ again
Like we’ve nearly always been
Cryin’ again
I wonder when I won’t be cryin’ again
Cryin’ again
We’re out of love again
Cryin’ again
Like we’ve nearly always been
Cryin’ again
I wonder when I won’t be cryin’ again