Direct Answer: Who Sings “Cry Me a River”
“Cry Me a River” is performed by Justin Timberlake, released in 2002 as the second single from his debut solo studio album, Justified. The song was written by Timberlake, Timothy “Timbaland” Mosley, and Scott Storch, and it was produced by Timbaland and Timberlake. It marked a pivotal moment in Timberlake’s transition from boy band member to solo artist and became a defining song of the early 2000s era. Below is a detailed profile of the song, its background, and its lasting impact.
Song Profile: “Cry Me a River”
“Cry Me a River” is a pop and R&B track that blends electronic, jazz, and hip-hop influences. Its production features a syncopated beat, processed vocals, and a melodic bassline. Lyrically, the song addresses betrayal and heartbreak, widely interpreted as a response to a past relationship. Since its release, it has been recognized as one of the defining songs of the 2000s and a cornerstone of Justin Timberlake’s catalog.
Key Details and Verified Information
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Artist | Justin Timberlake | Official releases, label catalog |
| Featured Writer(s) | Justin Timberlake, Timbaland, Scott Storch | BMI/ASCAP credits |
| Producer(s) | Timbaland, Justin Timberlake | Label credits, liner notes |
| Release Date | November 2002 (single), March 2002 (album Justified) | Label announcements, RIAA |
| Label | Jive Records | Music databases (Discogs, AllMusic) |
| Chart Peak | #3 on Billboard Hot 100 | Billboard chart archives |
| Certification | Platinum (digital single) in the U.S. | RIAA certification database |
Song Breakdown and Musical Context
Musically, “Cry Me a River” is built around a sample of the prominent 1970s track “Think (About It)” by Lyn Collins, specifically its drum break. Timbaland’s production combines chopped vocal samples, a steady kick-drum pattern, and atmospheric synths. Timberlake’s vocal delivery ranges from smooth crooning to controlled falsetto, emphasizing the song’s emotional arc. The structure includes verses, a pre-chorus that tightens tension, and a chorus designed for sing-along familiarity.
Lyrical Themes and Interpretation
While Timberlake has not specified a single real-life inspiration in detail, public narrative and interviews point toward references of a betrayed relationship. Lines such as “You were my everything, and now you’re nothing” and “Cry me a river, cry me a river, tears are falling down” convey a tone of wounded pride and emotional distance. The song’s confessional style helped bridge pop and R&B audiences, contributing to its broad appeal.
Reception and Legacy
“Cry Me a River” earned critical acclaim for its production and vocal performance. It received extensive airplay, strong digital sales, and notable awards attention, including Grammy nominations. The song remains a staple in pop retrospectives and is frequently cited as influential in shaping the sound of 2000s mainstream R&B and pop. Its music video, directed by Francis Lawrence, also contributed to the song’s iconic status, featuring cinematic storytelling and memorable imagery.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
- Peaked at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of Timberlake’s highest-charting solo singles.
- Certified Platinum by the RIAA, denoting substantial digital sales and streaming equivalent units.
- Widely sampled and referenced in popular culture, underscoring its reach beyond original release.
- Earned Grammy Award nominations, recognizing its songwriting and production impact.
Context and Influence
“Cry Me a River” was instrumental in establishing Justin Timberlake as a viable solo artist beyond *NSYNC. Its success demonstrated Timberlake’s ability to merge contemporary R&B with mainstream pop, paving the way for subsequent albums such as FutureSex/LoveSounds. The song’s distinctive production and candid lyricism influenced a wave of pop and R&B tracks in the early 2000s, making it a frequently referenced touchstone in discussions about the era’s music.
Closing Summary
“Cry Me a River” is unequivocally performed by Justin Timberlake and stands as one of his most recognizable solo works. Released in 2002 under Jive Records, the song blends innovative production with emotionally resonant lyrics, securing its place in pop history. With verified credits, strong chart performance, and enduring cultural relevance, the song continues to be a definitive part of Timberlake’s artistic legacy.