Introduction:
Country music icon Toby Keith released “Cryin’ For Me (Wayman’s Song)” in October 2009. This poignant ballad, the second single from his album American Ride, became a powerful testament to friendship and the enduring impact of loss.
The song wasn’t just another track on Keith’s extensive discography. It served as a deeply personal tribute to Wayman Tisdale, a longtime friend and fellow musician who passed away from cancer earlier that year. Tisdale, a renowned bassist known for his collaborations with artists like Willie Nelson and Vince Gill, had also played alongside Keith for many years. Their musical bond translated into a deep friendship, making Tisdale’s passing a significant loss for Keith.
“Cryin’ For Me (Wayman’s Song)” wasn’t produced by a single individual but rather a collaborative effort. Keith himself took the lead on production duties, ensuring a personal touch throughout the creative process. He was joined by Paul J. Harris, a frequent collaborator known for his work with Keith on numerous albums, including “Shock’n Y’all” and “Unleashed.” This co-production allowed Keith to weave his artistic vision for the song while benefiting from Harris’ experience in crafting impactful country music.
Released as a single, “Cryin’ For Me (Wayman’s Song)” garnered significant attention within the country music scene. It peaked at number 6 on the US Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, a testament to its emotional resonance with listeners. The song resonated not just for its connection to Tisdale’s passing but also for its universal themes of grief, friendship, and cherishing the moments shared with loved ones.
While the song itself doesn’t include direct lyrics, it’s evident through Keith’s powerful vocals and the melancholic melody that “Cryin’ For Me (Wayman’s Song)” is a deeply personal reflection. It avoids melodrama, instead opting for a raw and honest portrayal of grief, allowing listeners to connect with the emotions it evokes.
“Cryin’ For Me (Wayman’s Song)” stands as a significant entry in Toby Keith’s musical journey. It transcends the realm of a hit single, transforming into a heartfelt tribute to a cherished friend. The song’s success and enduring impact are a testament to the power of music in capturing and conveying emotions, particularly in the face of loss.
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Lyrics:
Got the news on Friday mornin’But a tear I couldn’t findYou showed me how I’m supposed to liveAnd now you showed me how to dieI was lost till Sunday morningI work up to face my fearWhile writing you this goodbye songI found a tearI’m gonna miss that smileI’m gonna miss you my friendEven though it hurts the way it ended upI’d do it all againSo play it sweet in heaven‘Cause That’s right where you want to beI’m not cryin’ cause I feel so sorry for youI’m cryin’ for meI got up and dialed your numberAnd your voice came on the lineWith that old familiar messageI’d heard a thousand times it just saidSorry that I missed youLeave a message and god blessI know you think I’m crazyBut I had to hear your voice againI’m gonna miss that smileI’m gonna miss you my friendEven though it hurts the way it ended upI’d do it all againSo play it sweet in heaven‘Cause That’s right where you want to beI’m not cryin’ cause I feel so sorry for youI’m cryin’ for meSo play your upside down left handedBackwards bass guitarAnd I’ll see you on the other sideSuperstarI’m gonna miss that smileI’m gonna miss you my friendEven though it hurts the way it ended upI’d do it all againSo play it sweet in heaven‘Cause That’s right where you want to beI’m not cryin’ cause I feel so sorry for youI’m cryin’ for meI’m still cryin’I’m cryin’ for meI’m still cryin’