What makes Cussin', Cryin' & Carryin' On by Ike & Tina Turner notable?

The album is significant for its reflection of the tumultuous personal and professional dynamics between Ike and Tina Turner, encapsulated in raw, emotive performances. It received positive reviews and contributed to their growing presence on the charts, setting the stage for future hits during the early '70s. Additionally, the album's themes resonate with the civil rights movement, as songs like 'Thinking Black' highlight social issues relevant to African American culture at the time. In 1969, Ike & Tina Turner were on the cusp of mainstream recognition, following their breakout hit 'Proud Mary' which would come just a year later. 'Cussin', Cryin' & Carryin' On' was their third studio album, showcasing their energetic fusion of rhythm and blues with rock influences while solidifying their reputation as a dynamic live act. This release came at a crucial time when the duo was transitioning from primarily regional popularity to national fame.

Who is Cussin', Cryin' & Carryin' On for?

Cussin', Cryin' & Carryin' On works well if you're into concise energetic flow throughout, raw emotion in every track and for lively gatherings.

How many songs are on Cussin', Cryin' & Carryin' On?

Cussin', Cryin' & Carryin' On has 11 tracks, running approximately 27 minutes.

Cussin', Cryin' & Carryin' On

Ike & Tina Turner · 1969

27 min · 11 tracks · blues

Soulful melodies and gritty blues combine with Tina Turner's powerhouse vocals in this electrifying exploration of love and heartache.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Cussin’, Cryin’, & Carryin’ On — The title track serves as an anthem of emotional release, blending soulful instrumentation with Tina's powerful vocal delivery that embodies the album's thematic essence.
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So Blue Over You — This track showcases a hauntingly beautiful melody paired with poignant lyrics expressing deep sorrow, highlighting Tina's ability to convey vulnerability through her voice.
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I’m Fed Up — With its driving rhythm and assertive lyrics, this song captures a moment of defiance and empowerment, reflecting Tina's struggle and strength within her tumultuous relationship.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

52 /100

Foothills

Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong performances but has uneven pacing and composition.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features a call-and-response structure between Tina's vocals and the backing instruments, setting an energetic tone.
Several tracks incorporate prominent horn sections that accentuate the bluesy feel, particularly in 'You Got What You Wanted' and 'Make ’em Wait'.
The pacing varies significantly; after the mid-tempo opener, tracks like 'I’m Fed Up' and 'Thinking Black' shift to slower, more reflective tempos, creating emotional contrast.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

concise energetic flow throughout
raw emotion in every track
for lively gatherings
engaging sing-along moments
short bursts of catharsis

Maybe skip if you

prefer longer immersive experiences
seek extended introspective moods

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Released just before their mainstream hit, it showcases their emerging sound and dynamics.
Themes: emotional release· soulful heartbreak· defiant empowerment
Career context: In 1969, Ike & Tina Turner were on the cusp of mainstream recognition, following their breakout hit 'Proud Mary' which would come just a year later. 'Cussin', Cryin' & Carryin' On' was their third studio album, showcasing their energetic fusion of rhythm and blues with rock influences while solidifying their reputation as a dynamic live act. This release came at a crucial time when the duo was transitioning from primarily regional popularity to national fame.
Stylistic neighbors: James Brown· Aretha Franklin· Sly and the Family Stone

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Thinking Black

The narrative shifts from personal reflection to a broader commentary on racial identity, intertwining personal pain with societal issues.

This transition from introspection to social critique enriches the song’s message, making it not only a personal lament but also a call for awareness and change.