About the song
“Cry” is a classic pop ballad by Lesley Gore, released in 1963. The song, which became one of her biggest hits, showcases her powerful, emotional voice and solidified her place in the pop music landscape of the early 1960s. Part of her debut album I’ll Cry If I Want To, “Cry” is a heart-wrenching reflection on loss, heartbreak, and emotional vulnerability. Written by the prolific songwriting duo Mann and Weil, the song explores the feeling of being left behind and the sorrow that accompanies unrequited love.
Lesley Gore was known for her ability to convey complex emotions through her music, and “Cry” is a prime example of this. The song’s lyrics are simple yet deeply poignant. In it, Gore sings about the pain of seeing someone she loves walk away, while also acknowledging that, despite the hurt, the power to heal remains within. The phrase “I’ll cry, cry, cry” is repeated throughout the song, symbolizing both the immediate sadness and the eventual release of those feelings.
Musically, “Cry” is a standout track from the era, characterized by lush orchestration and a tender piano accompaniment, which complements Gore’s emotive delivery. The arrangement was typical of many early 1960s pop songs, combining elements of girl group pop with sophisticated orchestral arrangements, a style that became synonymous with the era. The song has a timeless quality, not only because of its melodic structure but also because of its lyrical themes, which resonate with listeners of all ages.
The social and cultural impact of “Cry” lies in its ability to articulate feelings of emotional vulnerability that many people, especially young women, could identify with. At a time when much of popular music was dominated by upbeat, feel-good songs, “Cry” stood out by addressing the complexities of romantic relationships and the emotional toll of heartbreak. Its success reflected a growing interest in music that explored the full range of human emotions, paving the way for future pop ballads and empowering artists to tackle deeper, more introspective themes in their work.
Furthermore, “Cry” holds a special place in pop music history for its influence on Lesley Gore’s career and her role in shaping the sound of 1960s pop music. Gore was one of the first female artists to achieve mainstream success in the early 1960s who wasn’t just confined to the typical “teen idol” mold. While she was undoubtedly known for her hits like “It’s My Party”, “Cry” showed a different side of her, proving that she was not just a performer of catchy pop tunes but also an artist capable of delivering more emotional, mature material.
The song’s legacy extends beyond its initial release, as it has been covered by various artists in different genres over the years. It has been embraced by several generations, resonating with those who have experienced heartbreak, loss, or longing. The simple, yet profound message of “Cry” is universal: even in the depths of sorrow, there is a path toward healing, and the raw expression of pain through tears can be cathartic. This timeless theme has made the song an enduring classic.
In conclusion, “Cry” by Lesley Gore is a powerful ballad that showcases her remarkable vocal talent and emotional depth. Released in 1963, the song is part of the album I’ll Cry If I Want To, and it explores themes of heartbreak, vulnerability, and the emotional complexities of love. Its blend of poignant lyrics, rich orchestration, and Gore’s heartfelt delivery made it a standout track of the era. The song’s cultural impact is still felt today, and it remains a quintessential example of the 1960s pop ballad. “Cry” continues to be a symbol of the enduring power of music to express the most intimate human emotions.
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Lyrics
It’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want toCry if I want to, cry if I want toYou would cry too if it happened to youNobody knows where my Johnny has goneJudy left the same timeWhy was he holding her handWhen he’s supposed to be mine?It’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want toCry if I want to, cry if I want toYou would cry too if it happened to youPlayin’ my records, keep dancing all nightBut leave me alone for a while‘Til Johnny’s dancing with meI’ve got no reason to smileIt’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want toCry if I want to, cry if I want toYou would cry too if it happened to youJudy and Johnny just walked through the doorLike a queen with her KingOh, what a birthday surpriseJudy’s wearin’ his ringIt’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want toCry if I want to, cry if I want toYou would cry too if it happened to youOh, it’s my party, and I’ll cry if I want toCry if I want to, cry if I want toYou would cry too if it happened to you