Sunday, March 20, 2011

Ray Charles, Barbra Streisand: Cryin' Time

by Len Hart

Crying Time is often thought of as a Country and Western song; indeed, it was written by the legendary Buck Owens in 1964. Owens recorded a version of his song, but it failed to reach the music charts; but the 'cover' by Ray Charles was a huge hit on several charts, most notably the Billboard Hot 100 where it reached the No. 6 and number 5 on the R&B chart.

Typical of Ray Charles' talent, his version retains the C&W flavor yet does not compromise his unique approach to soul. It was a huge hit. Just as interesting is his televised duet with Barbara Streisand. The Ray Charles' version of "Crying Time" won two Grammy Awards in 1967 --Best R&B Recording and Best R&B Solo Performance.

Charles considered his version to be an homage to the 'Country and Western' style. Among other recordings of C&W songs is his hit with "I Can't Stop Loving You".

Following are two of the 'same' video. I believe the top one has better audio quality but the bottom embed is of higher quality video. Your choice.


Ray Charles, Barbra Streisand: Cryin' Time

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