About the song
In the annals of pop music, few songs have captured the raw emotion and universal experience of heartbreak as poignantly as Paul Anka’s “It’s Time to Cry.” Released in 1959, this timeless ballad quickly resonated with audiences of all ages, solidifying Anka’s status as a rising star and a master of heartfelt songwriting.
Anka, a Canadian-American singer and songwriter, was known for his youthful exuberance and his ability to connect with young audiences. However, with “It’s Time to Cry,” he demonstrated a maturity beyond his years, delving into the depths of emotional pain with a haunting vulnerability. The song’s lyrical content explores themes of loss, regret, and the enduring ache of unrequited love.
The opening lines, “I’m walking down a lonely street, where shadows meet,” immediately set the melancholic tone of the song. Anka’s voice, filled with a mix of sorrow and resignation, conveys the profound sadness of the protagonist. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a desolate figure wandering through a city that feels both familiar and alien.
As the song progresses, the protagonist’s longing for their lost love intensifies. Anka’s crooning vocals emphasize the pain of separation, as he sings lines like, “I’m thinking of the days we had, the laughter and the fun.” The nostalgic undertones evoke a sense of bittersweet longing, reminding listeners of their own cherished memories.
The bridge of the song introduces a glimmer of hope amidst the despair. The protagonist acknowledges the possibility of healing and moving forward, but the sentiment is tinged with a lingering sadness. The lyrics, “Maybe someday, I’ll find a way to forget you,” suggest that while time may offer solace, the memory of the lost love will always hold a special place in their heart.
The song concludes with a powerful repetition of the title phrase, “It’s time to cry.” This refrain serves as a cathartic release, allowing the protagonist and the listener to acknowledge and embrace their grief. Anka’s emotive delivery conveys a sense of finality, as if the tears that have been held back for so long can finally flow freely.
“It’s Time to Cry” remains a poignant and enduring testament to Paul Anka’s songwriting prowess. Its timeless themes of love, loss, and heartbreak continue to resonate with audiences of all generations. The song’s ability to evoke deep emotions and provide comfort in times of sorrow has solidified its place in the pantheon of classic pop music.
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Lyrics
When somebody leaves you
That’s the time to cry
When you know you’re lonely
You’re not the one and only who will cry
When your heart is broken
That’s the time to cry
When you know she’s left you
You’ll know that she has left you
So you can cry
Happiness is what I long for
Loneliness is why I cry
For you have made my heart a slave
And now it’s up to you
When somebody leaves you
That’s the time to cry
When you know she’s left you
You’ll know that she has left you
So you can cry