Introduction
While the title might suggest a duet between Willie Nelson and Shania Twain, “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” actually has two separate histories to untangle.
Willie Nelson’s original:
- Released in 1975 on his iconic album “Red Headed Stranger,” the song is a melancholic ballad about lost love.
- Its haunting melody and Nelson’s signature raspy vocals paint a vivid picture of heartbreak and enduring memories.
- The song became a cornerstone of Nelson’s outlaw country sound and a fan favorite, reaching no. 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart.
- Interestingly, the song wasn’t written by Nelson himself, but by Fred Burch and Curly Putman.
Shania Twain’s connection:
- In 2000, Twain joined Nelson for a live performance of “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain” at his 70th birthday celebration.
- Their rendition, captured on the “Live and Kicking” DVD, became a fan-loved moment, showcasing the contrasting yet powerful vocal styles of two country music legends.
So, when you hear “Willie Nelson & Shania Twain, ‘Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain’,” you’re actually experiencing two different encounters with the song:
- One, the original 1975 version by Willie Nelson, a timeless country ballad etched in heartbreak.
- Two, a live performance magic moment, where Nelson and Twain’s voices intertwine, breathing new life into the classic.
Which version you’ll hear depends on the context. Regardless, you’re guaranteed a powerful dose of country music history and emotion, wrapped up in the poignant story of “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain.”