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Introduction:

Toby Keith’s “I’m So Happy I Can’t Stop Crying” is a standout track from his 1997 album Dream Walkin’, featuring an unexpected collaboration with British rock legend Sting. Originally written and recorded by Sting for his 1996 album Mercury Falling, the song was reimagined in a country context when Toby Keith approached Sting for a duet. Their version highlights the fusion of two distinct musical worlds: Keith’s signature country sound and Sting’s introspective, pop-rock sensibility.

The song explores the complex emotions of a man grappling with a broken family life, where despite his pain, he finds moments of profound happiness, leading to a paradoxical sense of crying for joy. It captures a bittersweet reflection on life’s ups and downs, emphasizing the raw vulnerability in both Keith’s country storytelling and Sting’s poignant lyrics.

Upon its release, the duet gained considerable attention, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. It also earned praise for its cross-genre appeal, with critics and fans appreciating the seamless blend of Keith’s heartland country and Sting’s introspective artistry. This collaboration demonstrates the emotional depth that transcends musical boundaries, making it a favorite among both artists’ fanbases.

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Lyrics:

“I’m So Happy I Can’t Stop Crying”
(feat. Sting)

Seven weeks have passed now since she left me,
She shows her face to ask me how I am
She says the kids are fine and that they miss me
Maybe I could come and baby-sit sometimeShe says, “are you o.k? I was worried about you.
“Can you forgive me? I hope that you’ll be happy.”
I’m so happy that I can’t stop crying
I’m so happy I’m laughing through my tears

I saw a friend of mine. he said, “I was worried about you
I heard she had another man, I wondered how you felt about I
I’m so happy that I can’t stop crying
I’m so happy I’m laughing through my tears

Saw my lawyer, Mr. good news, he got me
Joint custody and legal separation
I’m so happy that I can’t stop crying
I’m laughing through my tears,
I’m laughing through my tears

I took a walk alone last night.
I looked up at the stars
To try to find an answer in my life

I chose a star for me, I chose a star for him
I chose two stars for my kids and one star for my wife
Something made me smile.
Something seemed to ease the pain
Something about the universe and how it’s all connected

The park is full of sunday fathers, and melted ice cream
We try to do the best, within the givin time
A kid should be with his mother, everybody knows that
What can a father do but baby-sit sometimes?

I saw that friend of mine, he said, “you look different somehow.”
I said, “everybody’s got to leave this darkness sometime.”
I’m so happy that I can’t stop crying,
I’m laughing through my tears,
I’m laughing through my tears
I’m so happy that I can’t stop crying
I’m laughing through my tears,
I’m laughing through my tears