“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Music has a unique ability to immortalize our emotions and memories, capturing moments in time that words alone cannot convey. When Toby Keith penned “Cryin’ for Me (Wayman’s Song),” he wasn’t just writing a song; he was crafting a heartfelt tribute to his close friend, Wayman Tisdale, a former NBA player and jazz musician. This piece stands as a testament to their friendship and the deep impact Tisdale had on Keith’s life. The poignancy of the song resonates with anyone who has experienced loss, making it a universal anthem of remembrance and tribute.
About The Composition
- Title: Cryin’ for Me (Wayman’s Song)
- Composer: Toby Keith
- Premiere Date: October 2009
- Album/Opus/Collection: American Ride
- Genre: Country
Background
“Cryin’ for Me (Wayman’s Song)” was born from a place of profound loss and heartfelt respect. Toby Keith wrote this song following the untimely death of Wayman Tisdale in May 2009. Tisdale, a celebrated jazz bassist and former professional basketball player, had battled cancer before his passing. Keith and Tisdale’s friendship was deeply rooted in mutual admiration and shared experiences, and this song emerged as a way for Keith to process his grief and honor his friend’s memory.
The song’s release on the album “American Ride” brought with it an outpouring of support from fans who were moved by its sincerity and emotional depth. It quickly became a standout track, showcasing Keith’s ability to blend personal experience with universal themes of loss and remembrance.
Musical Style
“Cryin’ for Me (Wayman’s Song)” is characterized by its soulful melody and poignant lyrics. The song features a blend of country and jazz influences, reflecting Tisdale’s musical legacy. The instrumentation includes a soft, steady drumbeat, gentle guitar strums, and a soulful saxophone solo that adds a layer of emotional complexity to the piece. Keith’s vocal delivery is raw and heartfelt, further emphasizing the song’s deeply personal nature. The combination of these musical elements creates a somber yet uplifting tribute, capturing the essence of both Keith’s grief and his celebration of Tisdale’s life.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Cryin’ for Me (Wayman’s Song)” tell a story of loss, reflection, and the enduring impact of friendship. Keith sings about the moments they shared and the sorrow of having to say goodbye. Lines like “Got the news on Friday morning” and “Ain’t afraid to say, I cried” reveal the depth of his emotion, while the recurring refrain “I’m not cryin’ ’cause I feel so sorry for you; I’m cryin’ for me” underscores the personal nature of his mourning. The lyrics are straightforward yet powerful, allowing listeners to connect with the sentiment of the song on a personal level.
Performance History
Since its release, “Cryin’ for Me (Wayman’s Song)” has been performed by Toby Keith at numerous concerts and events, often accompanied by a saxophonist to honor Tisdale’s jazz background. One of the most notable performances was at the ACM Awards, where Keith’s heartfelt rendition brought many in the audience to tears. The song has been embraced by fans for its authenticity and emotional resonance, solidifying its place in Keith’s repertoire as a powerful tribute to his friend.
Cultural Impact
While “Cryin’ for Me (Wayman’s Song)” is a deeply personal tribute, its themes of loss and remembrance have given it a broader cultural impact. The song has been used in various memorial services and tributes, transcending its origin to become a universal anthem for those mourning loved ones. Its blend of country and jazz elements also highlights the genre-crossing appeal of both Keith and Tisdale, bridging the gap between different musical worlds.
Legacy
The enduring importance of “Cryin’ for Me (Wayman’s Song)” lies in its ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. It serves as a reminder of the power of music to heal and memorialize, ensuring that Tisdale’s legacy continues to touch audiences long after his passing. The song remains a staple in Keith’s performances, and its message of heartfelt remembrance continues to resonate with new generations of listeners.
Conclusion
“Cryin’ for Me (Wayman’s Song)” is more than just a song; it’s a poignant tribute to a cherished friend and a testament to the enduring power of music to convey our deepest emotions. Toby Keith’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful delivery make it a timeless piece that resonates with anyone who has experienced loss. For those looking to explore this moving tribute further, I recommend listening to the live performances where Keith’s emotion is palpable, bringing the song’s message of love and remembrance to life.
Video
Lyrics
Got the news on Friday morning
But a tear I couldn’t find
You showed me how I am supposed to live
Now you showed me how to die
I was lost til Sunday morning
I woke up to face my fear
While writing you this good bye song I found a tear
I’m going to miss that smile
I’m going to miss you my friend
Even though it hurts the way it ended up
Id do it all again
So play it sweet in heaven
Cause that’s right where you want to be
I’m not cryin’ cause I feel so sorry for you
I am cryin’ for me
I got up and dialed your number
Your voice came on the line
That old familiar message
I have heard a thousand times
It just said, sorry that I missed you
Leave a message and god bless
I know that you think I am crazy
But I just had to hear your voice I guess
I’m going to miss that smile
I’m going to miss you my friend
Even though it hurts the way it ended up
Id do it all again
So play it sweet in heaven
Cause that’s right where you want to be
I’m not cryin’ cause I feel so sorry for you
I am cryin’ for me
Oh
So play your upsidedown, left handed
Backward bass guitar
I’ll see you on the other side superstar
I’m going to miss that smile
I’m going to miss you my friend
Even though it hurts the way it ended up
I’d do it all again
So play it sweet in heaven
Cause that’s right where you want to be
I’m not cryin’ cause I feel so sorry for you
I am cryin’ for me
I’m still cryin’
I’m cryin’ for me
Oh
I’m still cryin’