What makes The Sky Is Crying by Elmore James notable?

This album is notable for its influence on the electric blues sound that would shape rock music in the following decades. The title track has been covered by numerous artists, showcasing its lasting impact on the genre and solidifying Elmore James' legacy as a cornerstone of modern blues. Released in 1959, The Sky Is Crying was Elmore James' final studio album before his untimely death in 1963. At this point in his career, he had already established himself as a pivotal figure in the blues genre, known for his slide guitar technique and passionate performances. This album encapsulates his signature style, blending traditional blues with a burgeoning rock and roll sensibility.

How many songs are on The Sky Is Crying?

The Sky Is Crying has 2 tracks, running approximately 5 minutes.

The Sky Is Crying

Elmore James · 1959

5 min · 2 tracks · blues

Raw electric blues guitar intertwines with heartfelt vocals, creating a soundscape steeped in sorrow and longing.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
The Sky Is Crying — The title track features an iconic guitar riff that exemplifies James’ innovative slide technique while conveying deep emotional resonance through its lyrical themes of loss and longing.
→
Held My Baby Last Night — This track showcases James' powerful vocal delivery paired with energetic instrumentation, reflecting the vibrant rhythm and blues scene of the late 1950s.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 The Sky Is Crying 2:47
2 Held My Baby Last Night 2:50

What to play next

Listen next

I Can't Hold Out

1960

Go back to

Blues After Hours

Full Elmore James discography Artists like Elmore James

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata