What makes Crying in the Rain by The Everly Brothers notable?

The title track, 'Crying in the Rain,' became a significant hit for The Everly Brothers, reaching number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. This album is notable for its exploration of more complex emotional narratives compared to their previous work, influencing subsequent artists in both country and pop genres. Crying in the Rain was released in December 1961, marking The Everly Brothers' transition into a more mature sound following their earlier hits in the late 1950s. This album came after their successful run with songs like 'All I Have to Do Is Dream' and showcased their ability to blend rockabilly roots with deeper emotional themes.

How many songs are on Crying in the Rain?

Crying in the Rain has 3 tracks, running approximately 11 minutes.

Crying in the Rain

The Everly Brothers · 1961

11 min · 3 tracks · country music

Melodic harmonies intertwine with poignant lyrics, creating a bittersweet atmosphere of longing and nostalgia.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Crying in the Rain — This song encapsulates the album's theme of emotional vulnerability, featuring haunting melodies that perfectly complement its lyrical content about heartache.
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(Seemingly) Nonstop July — With its upbeat tempo and clever lyrics, this track contrasts the album's overall melancholy while showcasing The Everly Brothers' signature harmonies.
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Cry Wolf — This track dives into themes of deception and heartbreak, using vivid storytelling that highlights the duo’s lyrical sophistication.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong vocal harmonies and emotional depth, though it remains concise with only three tracks.

What we noticed

The title track features a prominent use of harmonies that intertwine throughout the verses, creating a rich vocal texture.
The second track employs a more upbeat tempo with a contrasting lyrical theme, shifting the emotional tone of the record.
The final track returns to a slower pace, mirroring the reflective quality of the first track and providing a sense of closure.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single marked a transition to a more mature sound, enhancing their recognition.
Themes: heartbreak in Nashville· rain-soaked longing
Career context: Crying in the Rain was released in December 1961, marking The Everly Brothers' transition into a more mature sound following their earlier hits in the late 1950s. This album came after their successful run with songs like 'All I Have to Do Is Dream' and showcased their ability to blend rockabilly roots with deeper emotional themes.
Stylistic neighbors: The Louvin Brothers· Simon & Garfunkel· The Byrds