About the song
I’M SO LONESOME I COULD CRY (1949) by Hank Williams is one of the most iconic and melancholic country songs ever written. Composed and performed by the legendary Hank Williams, the song captures the deep pain of loneliness and heartbreak, resonating universally with listeners. The simplicity of its lyrics paired with its haunting melody has cemented its place as a cornerstone in the history of country music. Its emotional depth reflects Williams’ own troubled life, making it as much a personal expression as a universal lament.
I’M SO LONESOME I COULD CRY was released in 1949 as the B-side to “My Bucket’s Got a Hole in It,” yet it far surpassed the A-side in emotional resonance and impact. Despite being released before the Billboard Country Singles chart was established (in 1958), the song became one of Williams’ most beloved and enduring hits. Its profound lyrics vividly evoke images of despair, including mourning whipperwills and fading sounds of midnight trains. Country legend Johnny Cash once described it as “the saddest song” he’d ever heard.
Though I’M SO LONESOME I COULD CRY predates the Grammy Awards by several years (with the awards introduced in 1959), it has received significant posthumous recognition. In 1983, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, honoring its enduring influence. The song is also featured on Rolling Stone’s list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” further solidifying its legacy. It has been covered by countless artists, including Elvis Presley and B.J. Thomas, who brought the song into the pop consciousness in later decades.
With its sparse arrangement and timeless theme of sorrow, I’M SO LONESOME I COULD CRY (1949) by Hank Williams is more than a song—it’s a piece of American musical history, a testament to the enduring artistry of Williams, and a vivid portrait of heartache.
Video
Lyrics
updating
