10 Covers Of Hank Williams’ “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry”

Hank Williams’ “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” has been covered by countless artists – here are the 10 best!

Hank Williams‘ timeless ballad, “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry,” is a poignant masterpiece that captures the essence of heartache and solitude. Released in 1949, this country classic continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

The song’s mournful lyrics and Williams’ soulful delivery paint a vivid picture of loneliness, evoking a profound emotional response. Lines like “Did you ever see a night so slow?” and “The silence of a falling star lights up a purple sky” convey a sense of isolation and yearning that’s universal.

“I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” has been covered by countless artists, cementing its status as a standard in American music. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to touch the depths of human emotion, making it a timeless masterpiece in the world of country music.

Let’s take a look at 10 covers of the incredible hit song.

Sara Evans

Sara Evans teamed up with Old Crow Medicine Show for her 2020 album Copy That, which included covers of songs by Kenny Loggins, the Bee Gees, and John Mayer.

BJ Thomas

The “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ On My Head” singer performed “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” for the program Country Family Reunion A Grand Ole Time.

Fortune/Walker/Rogers/Isaacs

In 2020, Jimmy Fortune, Bradley Walker, Mike Rogers, and Ben Isaacs teamed up for an album titled Brotherly Love. They filmed a live special at Rory Feek’s barn/studio in Tennessee.

Randy Travis

Because of the success of Randy Travis’ debut single – and its follow up – he was invited to make his Grand Ole Opry Debut on March 7, 1986, three months before his very first album, Storms of Life, was even released. Little Jimmy Dickens introduced the young singer, who had to be extremely nervous. Singing the heartbreaking Hank Williams song “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry,” Travis showed off his ability to channel the right emotions necessary to sing this heart-wrenching song.

Glen Campbell

Steve Hardin’s chilling harmonica nearly stole the show from Glen Campbell as they performed “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” on the old Ryman Theater in Nashville, Tennessee.

Dolly Parton

When Dolly Parton performed at the Ryman Auditorium January 30, 2020, she sang an impromptu rendition of “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry.” It was so impromptu that her band didn’t even play with her. She sang it a cappella!

Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley sang the iconic Hank Williams song during his Aloha from Hawaii Concert. While introducing it, Elvis called it, “the saddest song I’ve ever heard in my life, so bear with me.” While his emotions were very apparent, and it looks as though he is actually crying while singing it, that tear drop on his face is actually sweat!

Sam Williams

Sam Williams is proving that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. The son of Hank Williams Jr., Sam took to the Opry stage on October 23rd, 2021 and performed his late grandfather’s song. The audience appreciated that he wasn’t trying to imitate his grandfather and sung it like himself. Well done!

Tom Hiddleston

In the 2015 film I Saw The Light, actor Tom Hiddleston portrayed Hank Williams, and even sang on the soundtrack. Listen to his take on “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry.”

Hank Williams, Jr.

The only son of Hank Williams, Hank Williams Jr. began his career imitating his father’s songs. He eventually made a name for himself and has countless hits to his name. Watch him perform “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” back in 1972.

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