Fool to Cry

Fool to Cry is a song by the Rolling Stones from their 1976 album Black and Blue. The song was written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the band's primary songwriting team.

Background

Black and Blue was the first album to feature Ronnie Wood as a full-time member of the Rolling Stones, although he had played on some tracks of the previous album, It's Only Rock 'n Roll. "Fool to Cry" was released as the lead single from Black and Blue and became a hit, reaching number 6 on the UK Singles Chart and number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.

Composition

"Fool to Cry" is a ballad that features a prominent electric piano played by Billy Preston, who was a frequent collaborator with the Rolling Stones during the 1970s. The song's lyrics reflect a sense of melancholy and introspection, with Jagger singing about personal struggles and emotional vulnerability.

Reception

The song received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its emotional depth and Jagger's vocal performance, while others felt it was too sentimental compared to the band's earlier, more rock-oriented work. Despite the mixed critical reception, "Fool to Cry" was commercially successful and remains a notable track in the Rolling Stones' discography.

Live Performances

"Fool to Cry" has been performed live by the Rolling Stones on several occasions, although it is not as frequently included in their setlists as some of their other hits. The song was notably performed during the band's 1976 tour in support of Black and Blue.

Personnel

• Mick Jagger – lead vocals, electric piano
• Keith Richards – guitar, backing vocals
• Ronnie Wood – guitar
• Bill Wyman – bass guitar
• Charlie Watts – drums
• Billy Preston – electric piano

Chart Performance

• UK Singles Chart: #6
• Billboard Hot 100: #10

See Also

• Rolling Stones discography
• List of songs by the Rolling Stones
• Black and Blue