“Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain”: The Song That Helped Willie Nelson Get Back On His feet after a Breakup . “When I recorded this song, I was going through divorce, failure, loss… I just sang exactly what I was living.” And maybe that’s why it became his first hit as a solo artist — because the pain was real, and everyone who heard it recognized it.

Introduction

“Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” is a poignant country ballad written by Fred Rose and first recorded by Roy Acuff in 1947. Over the years, it has been interpreted by numerous artists, including Hank Williams Sr., Elvis Presley, and Olivia Newton-John. However, it was Willie Nelson’s 1975 rendition that brought the song widespread acclaim and commercial success.

Nelson included the track on his concept album Red Headed Stranger, which tells the story of a fugitive preacher dealing with the loss of his wife. The album’s minimalist production and Nelson’s emotive delivery allowed the song’s themes of love and loss to resonate deeply with listeners. This version became Nelson’s first number-one hit as a singer and earned him a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male.

The success of “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” marked a turning point in Nelson’s career, transitioning him from a songwriter to a leading figure in the outlaw country movement. The song’s enduring popularity is evident in its inclusion in various compilations and its continued presence in Nelson’s live performances.

In 1986, a music video was produced to promote the film adaptation of Red Headed Stranger, further cementing the song’s place in country music history.

“Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” remains a testament to the power of simplicity and heartfelt storytelling in music, solidifying its status as a classic in the country genre.

Video

Lyrics

In the twilight glow I see
Blue eyes crying in the rain
When we kissed goodbye and parted
I knew we’d never meet again
Love is like a dying ember
And only memories remain
And through the ages I’ll remember
Blue eyes crying in the rain
Some day when we meet up yonder
We’ll stroll, hand in hand again
In a land that knows no parting
Blue eyes crying in the rain