by Connie Goranson

Created on: June 12, 2010

There are a few songs that can really make me cry.  Some artists know how to write lyrics and sing them so we just don't listen; our hearts are touched and changed.   Following is my list of the most important to me.  They are all classics, in my opinion.

1.  'Goodbye, My Friend' by Linda Rondstadt.  This is the only song I cannot listen to without crying.  I haven't heard it in years, and have been debating when to purchase it.   Linda's song is the most gut-wrenching for me.  She sings about knowing that she will never see a beloved person again, but that the memories will always be dear to her heart.  The lyrics, to me, are more like a journal or a poetic dedication.

2.  'The Long and Winding Road' by the Beatles.  Written for the 'Let It Be' album, I even prefer it to the album's title song.  Listen to it on the 'Let it Be. . .Naked' album/CD; Paul's voice conveys the deep feelings of this song. and needs no orchestral accompaniment.  Roads do lead us to people and destinies. 

3. 'In My Life' by The Beatles.  This beautiful song captures the memories and wistfulness of someone who can never be replaced.  The essence of love befits this song, and it is one of my three favorite Beatles songs.

4. 'Yesterday' by the Beatles.  (Yes, they are my favorite band).  This song can bring tears to my eyes when thinking of certain people and past memories.  The fact that Paul McCartney won The Library of Congress Gershwin award for 'Yesterday' the first week of June, 2010, is a testament to his genius.  And to think that this melody came to him in a dream!  It is the most re-recorded pop song.

3.  'The Song is Over' by The Who.  The haunting beginning notes of this song bring a melancholy feeling before the first word is sung.  The first two lines are so poignant ~ "The song is over.  It's all behind me."  This is my favorite song by The Who and has been overshadowed by so many of their great hits.  As many are used to The Who being 'rockers', I appreciated their stretch into this, more bluesy, genre of music.

4.  'I Will Remember You' by Sarah MacLaughlan.  This song always reminds me of departed family and friends.  The words are very beautiful and I have heard it played at funerals.

5.  'In the Arms of the Angels' by Sarah MacLaughlan.  This is another song by the above artist that can really touch my soul.  It is very comforting to me, and Ms. MacLaughlan talks about finding comfort (here) in the arms of the angels.  

6.  'Wishing You Were Here' by Chicago.  The longing comes through in this song and the background vocals are hauntingly beautiful.  This is one of my favorite songs by this fabulous group.

Learn more about this author, Connie Goranson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.