The Sound of Your Cry: Elvis Presley's Melodic Reflection on Love and Longing
(watch the video below)
"The Sound of Your Cry" is one of Elvis Presley's lesser-known gems, tucked away in his extensive discography. Released in 1970 as part of his album "That's the Way It Is," this heartfelt ballad showcases Presley's vocal prowess and emotional depth, yet it often remains overshadowed by his more iconic hits. However, within its melodies and lyrics lies a narrative rich with longing, yearning, and the complexities of love.
The song opens with a haunting melody, carried by soft piano chords and gentle strings. Presley's voice, warm and tender, enters with the opening lines, setting the tone for the introspective journey ahead. From the first notes, listeners are drawn into a world of melancholy and desire, where the sound of one's cry echoes through the night.
At its core, "The Sound of Your Cry" is a reflection on the pain of separation and the longing for a lost love. Presley's emotive delivery captures the rawness of these emotions, evoking a sense of empathy and understanding from the listener. Each verse is infused with longing and regret, as the narrator grapples with the memories of a past romance.
Throughout the song, Presley's vocals soar and dip, mirroring the ebb and flow of emotions that accompany love and loss. His voice is both powerful and vulnerable, conveying the depth of feeling behind each lyric. As the chorus swells, accompanied by lush instrumentation, the intensity of the narrator's longing becomes palpable.
One of the most poignant aspects of "The Sound of Your Cry" is its portrayal of vulnerability. Despite Presley's status as a cultural icon, the song strips away any facade, revealing the man behind the legend. In his delivery, there is a rawness and sincerity that resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level. It is as if Presley is baring his soul, unafraid to expose his own heartache and longing.
The lyrics themselves are beautifully crafted, offering a poetic exploration of love and its aftermath. Lines such as "I can't believe that it's true / Am I really losing you" convey the narrator's disbelief and despair in the face of separation. Each word is carefully chosen to evoke a specific emotion, creating a vivid tableau of heartbreak and longing.
Beyond its lyrical and vocal merits, "The Sound of Your Cry" is also notable for its musical arrangement. The orchestration, arranged by Glen D. Hardin, is lush and evocative, providing the perfect backdrop for Presley's vocals. From the delicate piano melodies to the sweeping strings, every element of the instrumentation serves to enhance the emotional impact of the song.
In many ways, "The Sound of Your Cry" exemplifies Elvis Presley at his most introspective and emotionally resonant. While he is often celebrated for his energetic performances and charismatic persona, this song reminds us of his ability to convey vulnerability and depth. It is a testament to his artistry that he could imbue even a lesser-known ballad with such profound emotion and meaning.
Despite its relative obscurity, "The Sound of Your Cry" remains a cherished gem in Elvis Presley's vast musical legacy. Its timeless themes of love and longing continue to resonate with listeners, offering solace and companionship in moments of heartache. In the end, perhaps the true beauty of the song lies in its ability to evoke the universal experience of love and loss, reminding us that even the greatest icons are not immune to the pains of the heart.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics !
The clock by the bed is ticking too loud in the quiet night
I lie in the darkness thinking I must go before it's light
Before you open up your eyes and you beg me to stay
I'll leave 'cause I can't stand to see you hurt this way
Sleep my love as I kiss you goodbye
Then I won't hear the sound of your cry
Though I knew the time was coming and our love would end somehow
I just couldn't bear to tell you exactly just when or how
I know we can't go on, that it was wrong to start
But if you wake up crying now, you know you'll break my heart
Sleep my love as I kiss you goodbye
Then I won't hear the sound of your cry
Sleep my love as I kiss you goodbye
Then I won't hear the sound of your cry
Ohhhh, sleep my love as I kiss you, kiss you, kiss you goodbye
Then I won't hear the sound of your cry
Ohhhh, sleep my love as I kiss you goodbye
Then I won't hear oh no, the sound of your cry
Ohhhh, sleep my love as I kiss you goodbye
Then I won't hear the sound of your cry
Oh ooh ooh ooh, sleep my love as I kiss you goodbye
Then I won't hear the sound of your cry
Sleep my love as I kiss you goodbye
Then I won't hear the sound of your cry
