Billy Fury And The Handwritten Setlist That Ended With “If I Cry, You Finish The Song”

April 2, 2025

Billy Fury stood backstage, his heart pounding with anticipation as he looked over the handwritten setlist in his trembling hands. The venue was packed, the air thick with excitement and the heady aroma of young dreams. It was 1961, and Billy was one of the hottest stars in Britain, known for his captivating voice and magnetic presence. Yet, even with all his fame, a wave of nerves washed over him before every performance. Tonight was different—the energy in the room felt electric, and he knew he had to give it everything he had.

As he glanced down at the paper, he could see his own scribbles, each name of the songs etched with the ink of optimism and passion. “Halfway to Paradise,” “Last Night Was Made for Love,” and “I’d Never Find Another You” were just a few titles that could stir the hearts of the audience. But it was the last line that caught his attention, a simple reminder to himself scribbled in the margin: “If I cry, you finish the song.” It was a phrase that had become more than just a note; it was a promise to himself that despite any struggles, he would always rise above.

The lights dimmed, and the roar of the crowd went wild. Billy stepped onto the stage, the spotlight shining down like a warm embrace. As he launched into his first song, he felt the weight of every moment he had ever fought through—the rejections, the loneliness, the sleepless nights writing music. But as he sang, those feelings transformed into fuel. He poured his heart into every note, each lyric a testament to his journey. The audience sang along, their voices weaving together like a tapestry of support.

But as he neared the end of the performance, a wave of emotion bubbled up within him. Memories of his struggles flashed through his mind, and he felt tears beginning to well. He thought of how he had fought through the low times, turning pain into art, and how meaningful this moment was—not just for him, but for everyone who had come to listen. With a deep breath, he remembered that line on the setlist: “If I cry, you finish the song.” It was a challenge he had set for himself, a reminder that music was a shared experience.

As the final notes of his last song rang out, he felt a wave of love wash over him from the audience. The crowd roared, cheering him on like a warm blanket. Billy realized that sharing his vulnerabilities made the music stronger and more impactful. From that night on, he never hesitated to show his true emotions on stage. It became a part of who he was—a passionate artist willing to bare his soul.

Years later, as he looked back on that performance, Billy understood that it had not just been another concert. It was a turning point in his life. He continued to embrace the highs and lows of his career, each song a reflection of his journey. The handwritten setlist, now framed and hanging in his home, served as a constant reminder of that night. It reminded him that sharing vulnerability can create powerful connections and that sometimes, it’s okay to let the audience help you finish the song.