About the song
“I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” is a timeless classic by the legendary country music singer Hank Williams. Released in 1949, this song has been etched into the hearts of listeners for decades, capturing the essence of melancholy and heartache. Hank Williams, known for his profound influence on country music, penned this song himself, showcasing his remarkable songwriting talent.
The song was initially released as a B-side to “My Bucket’s Got a Hole in It,” yet it quickly outshone its A-side counterpart, resonating deeply with audiences. The haunting lyrics and somber melody paint a vivid picture of solitude and sorrow. With lines like “The silence of a falling star lights up a purple sky, and as I wonder where you are, I’m so lonesome I could cry,” Williams crafts an atmosphere of profound loneliness that transcends time.
Despite not being released as a standalone single, “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” gained significant popularity. It has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and B.J. Thomas, further cementing its status as a quintessential piece of American music. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universal theme of heartache and its ability to convey deep emotions with simple yet poignant lyrics.
Hank Williams’ performance of the song is raw and emotional, highlighting his unique ability to connect with listeners on an intimate level. “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” is part of the album “Moanin’ the Blues,” released in 1952, which features other notable tracks that showcase Williams’ distinctive style.
Over the years, the song has achieved critical acclaim and has been featured in various “greatest songs” lists. Its influence is evident in its continued presence in popular culture and the music industry. For many, “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” remains a definitive representation of classic country music and a testament to Hank Williams’ enduring legacy.
Video
Lyrics
Awful pretty song
I think one of the prettiest things that I ever had the pleasure of comin’ up with
I’m So Lonesome, I Could Cry
Hear that lonesome whippoorwill
He sounds too blue to fly
The midnight train is whining low
I’m so lonesome, I could cry
I’ve never seen a night so long
And time goes crawling by
The moon just went behind the clouds
To hide its face and cry
Did you ever see a robin weep
When leaves begin to die?
Like me, he’s lost the will to live
I’m so lonesome, I could cry
The silence of a falling star
Lights up a purple sky
And as I wonder where you are
I’m so lonesome, I could cry
That’s a good one
It’s a lonesome song, ain’t it?
Ain’t that lonesome, woo
Now you can’t get any much lonesome right, can you?
Want to whip a will so lonesome it can’t fly
He done got lonesome, man
He needs some company, bad