The Everly Brothers’ “Crying in the Rain”: A Timeless Collaboration of Musical Giants
The Everly Brothers were no strangers to chart-topping hits, but “Crying in the Rain” stands out as a particularly poignant and memorable entry in their illustrious catalog. Released in 1962, this emotionally charged ballad quickly resonated with listeners, climbing to an impressive number six on the US Billboard Hot 100. The song’s success is a testament not only to the duo’s impeccable harmonies but also to the unique collaboration between two of the most talented songwriters of their era, Carole King and Howard Greenfield.
“Crying in the Rain” is more than just a song; it is a powerful blend of lyrical melancholy and melodic beauty that captures the essence of heartache and longing. The Everly Brothers, known for their seamless vocal harmonies, brought an additional layer of depth and emotion to the song. Their delivery is both tender and bittersweet, perfectly complementing the song’s theme of concealed sorrow. The lyrics tell the story of someone hiding their tears in the rain, a metaphor for the emotional pain that one tries to mask from the world. The idea of using rain to hide tears is a simple yet profound image that many listeners could relate to, and it’s this relatability that contributed to the song’s lasting appeal.
What makes “Crying in the Rain” even more intriguing is the story behind its creation. The song was the result of a one-time collaboration between Carole King and Howard Greenfield, both of whom were prominent figures at Aldon Music. In a rather unusual arrangement, the two were paired together for a single day when they decided to swap their usual songwriting partners. King, who typically worked with her then-husband Gerry Goffin, teamed up with Greenfield, who usually collaborated with Jack Keller. The result of this spontaneous partnership was nothing short of magical, yielding a song that has stood the test of time. Despite the success of “Crying in the Rain”, King and Greenfield never collaborated again, making this song a unique and special entry in both of their careers.
The musical arrangement of “Crying in the Rain” also deserves mention. The song’s melody, composed by Carole King, is simple yet haunting, perfectly matching the melancholic tone of the lyrics. The gentle strumming of the guitar, combined with the Everly Brothers’ harmonies, creates a sound that is both soothing and sorrowful, a perfect backdrop for the song’s narrative. It’s a track that captures the listener’s attention from the first note and lingers in the mind long after it has ended.
Over the years, “Crying in the Rain” has been covered by various artists, but it is the Everly Brothers’ version that remains the definitive rendition. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless quality and the emotional connection it has fostered with listeners across generations. For fans of classic pop and rock ‘n’ roll, this song remains a cherished favorite, a reminder of an era when music was not just about sound, but about telling stories that touched the heart.