Acclaimed singer-songwriter Marshall Crenshaw has long been celebrated for his ability to craft catchy, retro-inspired rock and pop tunes. Now, Crenshaw is paying homage to one of his biggest musical influences with a cover of the Buddy Holly classic “Crying, Waiting, Hoping.”

Released as a single, Crenshaw’s version stays true to the spirit of Holly’s original 1957 recording, capturing the song’s infectious energy and wistful romanticism. Crenshaw’s warm vocals and jangly guitar work evoke the iconic Texan singer-songwriter’s style, while also injecting the track with Crenshaw’s own distinctive flair.

In an interview, Crenshaw discussed his long-standing admiration for Holly, describing him as “the template, the archetype” for the kind of artist Crenshaw has aspired to be. “Buddy Holly was such an influence on me, in terms of his songwriting, his approach to recording, and his whole demeanor,” Crenshaw explained. “Covering one of his songs is a way for me to pay tribute to that legacy.”

Crenshaw’s rendition of “Crying, Waiting, Hoping” has been praised by critics for its ability to both honor the original recording and offer a fresh interpretation. The track’s jangly, guitar-driven sound and Crenshaw’s emotive performance capture the bittersweet longing at the heart of Holly’s composition.

By recording this cover, Crenshaw not only celebrates the enduring brilliance of Buddy Holly’s musical legacy, but also demonstrates his own skill as a performer and songwriter who can skillfully blend classic sounds with his own modern sensibilities. For fans of both artists, Crenshaw’s version of “Crying, Waiting, Hoping” is a must-listen that pays tribute to the past while also pointing the way forward.