All I Could Do Was Cry
Etta James
The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com
I heard church bells ringing, I heard a choir singing. I saw my love walk down the aisle. On her finger, he placed a ring, oh, oh. I saw them holding hands She was standing there with my man. I heard them promise 'til death do us part. Each word was a pain in my heart. Oh. All I could do, all I could do was cry. All I could do was cry. I was losing the man that I loved, and all I could do was cry. And now the wedding is over, rice has been thrown over their heads. For them, life has just begun but mine is at an end Oh. All I could do, all I could do was cry. All I could do was cry. I was losing the man that I loved, And all I could do was cry.
The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com
Written by: BERRY JR GORDY, GWENDOLYN GORDY FUQUA, ROQUEL DAVIS
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Artist Background"All I Could Do Was Cry" is one of the most popular songs recorded by Etta James, a famous American singer. She is known for her soulful, bluesy voice and dynamic performances.
|
Song BackgroundThe song was released in 1960, as part of James' debut studio album "At Last!". The album marks the beginning of her prominent career in the music industry.
|
Song CompositionIt was crafted by Billy Davis, Berry Gordy, and Gwen Gordy. Berry Gordy later became the founder of the Motown record label.
|
Lyrics and ThemeThis melancholic song is noted for its raw emotion and delicate balance of pain and acceptance over a lover's wedding to another woman. Etta’s powerhouse voice brings the song’s heartbreaking lyrics to life.
|
Chart Performance"All I Could Do Was Cry" peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot R&B Sides chart, and it also reached number 33 on the Billboard Hot 100.
|
Critical ReviewWith its deep lyrics and exceptional vocal delivery, the song has been critically acclaimed for exemplifying the oft-employed theme of heartbreak in rhythm and blues music.
|
Cover VersionsVarious artists have performed cover versions of the song, celebrating its enduring influence. Notably, singer Beyoncé performed "All I Could Do Was Cry" in the 2008 film "Cadillac Records," portraying Etta James.
|
Song in MoviesThe song appeared in the repertoire of the character Chess Records in the biographical drama film "Cadillac Records," which narrates the story of the Chicago-based record label that produced blues and R&B music during the 1950s.
|
Musical Style“All I Could Do Was Cry” is characterized by a musical blend of rhythm and blues, soul, and gospel, which were Etta James' signature styles.
|
LegacyDespite the success of her other songs, "All I Could Do Was Cry" remains one of Etta James's most recognized and enduring performances, contributing to her iconic status within the music industry.
|
Citation
Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:
Style:MLAChicagoAPA
"All I Could Do Was Cry Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 21 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/7596328/Etta+James/All+I+Could+Do+Was+Cry>.
Discuss the All I Could Do Was Cry Lyrics with the community:
Report Comment
We're doing our best to make sure our content is useful, accurate and safe.
If by any chance you spot an inappropriate comment while navigating through our website please use this form to let us know, and we'll take care of it shortly.
Attachment
You need to be logged in to favorite.
Log In