Introduction:
Ricky Van Shelton, a prominent figure in the country music scene of the late 1980s and early 1990s, was celebrated for his rich, traditional vocal style and his ability to convey deep emotion. Among his many recordings, the poignant ballad “Sometimes I Cry In My Sleep” stands as a testament to his capacity for delivering songs that resonate with the profound sadness and vulnerability of the human heart. This particular track, co-written by Shelton himself with Rory Bourke, offers a raw and unvarnished glimpse into the private anguish of a soul wrestling with unspoken sorrow.
Released as the B-side to his chart-topping single “I’ll Leave This World Loving You” in August 1988, “Sometimes I Cry In My Sleep” appeared on Shelton’s highly successful album, Loving Proof. While not released as a standalone A-side single, its inclusion as the flip side to a number one hit ensured it received significant airplay and attention from fans of country music. The album Loving Proof itself was a substantial achievement, reaching the top of the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and solidifying Shelton’s status as a leading male vocalist in the genre.
The song’s genre is firmly rooted in country music, characterized by its traditional instrumentation and lyrical focus on heartfelt storytelling. “Sometimes I Cry In My Sleep” is a classic example of a country ballad, utilizing a slow tempo, a prominent steel guitar, and a somber melody to underscore its melancholic theme. Shelton’s vocal performance is central to the song’s impact; his voice, with its inherent warmth and vulnerability, perfectly captures the quiet desperation conveyed by the lyrics. He sings with a sincerity that makes the listener believe every word, drawing them into the solitary world of the narrator.
The lyrics delve into the often-hidden sorrow that individuals carry, suggesting a grief or heartache so profound that it manifests even in the subconscious state of sleep. The imagery of crying in one’s sleep paints a picture of a pain that is too overwhelming or too personal to express openly in waking hours, a silent struggle that continues even when the conscious mind is at rest. This theme of unspoken sorrow and the private battles we face resonates deeply with listeners, touching upon the universal experience of enduring hidden burdens.
While “Sometimes I Cry In My Sleep” did not chart independently as an A-side, its association with the immensely successful “I’ll Leave This World Loving You” ensured its widespread recognition. Its enduring presence on Loving Proof, a critically and commercially acclaimed album, further cemented its place as a significant track in Shelton’s discography. It remains a cherished song for fans who appreciate the depth of emotion and authentic storytelling that defined much of Ricky Van Shelton’s distinguished career.