About the song
“It’s Time to Cry” is a poignant ballad written and performed by the renowned singer-songwriter Paul Anka. Released in October 1959, this song stands as a testament to Anka’s ability to capture the deep emotions associated with love and heartbreak. At two minutes and twenty-four seconds long, the song is composed in the key of D sharp / E flat major and has a tempo of 74 beats per minute, perfectly setting the tone for its heartfelt lyrical content.
The lyrics of “It’s Time to Cry” delve into the sorrow and loneliness that follow a breakup. Anka poignantly expresses the inevitable pain that comes when a relationship ends, describing this moment as “the time to cry” for both partners involved. His words resonate with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet sting of lost love, making the song deeply relatable.
Critics at the time praised “It’s Time to Cry” for its emotional depth and musical composition. A writer from Billboard described the song and its B-side as “strong ballad efforts, read in hit style, nicely chanted over lush chorus and orchestra backing.” This lush musical arrangement adds to the song’s dramatic effect, enhancing Anka’s sincere vocal performance. Cashbox also lauded the song, suggesting it would easily follow the success of Anka’s previous hit, “Put Your Head on My Shoulder,” due to its heartfelt sincerity and superb orchestral support.
Upon its release, “It’s Time to Cry” quickly gained traction on the charts. It debuted at number 8 on Billboard’s Bubbling Under Hot 100 chart for the week of November 23, 1959. The following week, it entered the main Hot 100 at number 74 and eventually peaked at number 4, maintaining a presence on the chart for a total of 15 weeks. This impressive performance underscored the song’s widespread appeal and enduring popularity.
The song’s success was not limited to the United States. It also made significant impacts internationally, reaching number 28 in the United Kingdom, number 5 in Canada, number 18 in Australia, and an impressive number 2 in Italy. Such global acclaim highlights Anka’s universal appeal and the song’s resonance with audiences around the world.
In terms of year-end rankings, “It’s Time to Cry” was recognized as one of the standout songs of 1960. Billboard ranked it as the 66th biggest song of the year, while Cashbox placed it even higher at number 46. These accolades reflect the song’s lasting impact and the emotional connection it forged with listeners.
“It’s Time to Cry” remains a significant entry in Paul Anka’s illustrious career. Its heartfelt lyrics, coupled with a lush musical arrangement and Anka’s sincere delivery, create a timeless ballad that continues to evoke the bittersweet emotions of heartbreak. The song’s chart success and critical acclaim further cement its status as a classic, showcasing Anka’s talent for crafting deeply emotional and relatable music.
Video
Lyrics
When somebody leaves you
That’s the time to cry
When you know you’re lonely
You’re not the one and only who will cry
When your heart is broken
That’s the time to cry
When you know she’s left you
You’ll know that she has left you
So you can cry
Happiness is what I long for
Loneliness is why I cry
For you have made my heart a slave
And now it’s up to you
When somebody leaves you
That’s the time to cry
When you know she’s left you
You’ll know that she has left you
So you can cry