Introduction
Cry of the Whippoorwill” is a poignant bluegrass song co-written by Rhonda Vincent and bluegrass journalist Terry Herd. Released in 2001 as the opening track of Vincent’s album The Storm Still Rages, the song delves into themes of love, loss, and the haunting presence of a past relationship.
The inspiration for the song emerged during Vincent’s commute between her home in Missouri and Nashville. Struggling to find a compelling opening track for her upcoming album, she began crafting “Cry of the Whippoorwill” in her car. However, she found herself unable to complete it on her own. During a performance in Texas, Vincent met Terry Herd, who, upon hearing her unfinished song, offered to help. The next morning, Herd presented her with five verses, which Vincent felt were too lengthy. Despite her initial reservations, the song was included in its entirety on the album.
Musically, “Cry of the Whippoorwill” embodies the traditional bluegrass style, featuring Vincent’s distinctive vocals accompanied by the mandolin, fiddle, and banjo. The song’s lyrics evoke vivid imagery, likening the narrator’s emotional turmoil to the mournful cry of a whippoorwill, a bird known for its haunting call. This metaphor underscores the depth of the narrator’s sorrow and the lingering impact of the lost love.
Upon its release, “Cry of the Whippoorwill” received acclaim for its heartfelt storytelling and musical craftsmanship. The song’s success further solidified Rhonda Vincent’s reputation as a leading figure in the bluegrass genre.
For those interested in experiencing “Cry of the Whippoorwill,” the song is available on various music platforms, including Spotify.
In essence, “Cry of the Whippoorwill” stands as a testament to Rhonda Vincent’s storytelling prowess, capturing the universal themes of love and loss through the evocative metaphor of the whippoorwill’s call.
To listen to “Cry of the Whippoorwill,” you can watch the following video:
Video
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