Templeman believes he got the idea from a two-note lick Eddie Van Halen played in the song that sounded like someone crying.

[2][8] Classic Rock critic Dave Everley described the lyrics to "Jamie's Cryin'" as being "about the aftermath of a one-night stand that’s surprisingly sympathetic.

'"[12] Joe Charupakorn noted that on the guitar solo Van Halen "could have easily wailed, but instead chose to the play thematically and appropriately to maintain the song's vibe.

"[13] The Morning Call critic Len Righi noted that the song was getting significant radio airplay before the single came out and said that "its sinewy beat, piercing guitar fills and crisp harmonies behind David Lee Roth's husky vocal combine to produce powerful rock.

[16] Guitar World contributor Henry Yates praised the "often-overlooked rhythm chops that underpinned the stalking groove of 'Jamie’s Cryin.

"[19] Guitar World editor-in-chief Brad Tolinski and Chris Gill noted that the song featured "Van Halen's catchiest melody to date" and was a "successful attempt at penning a radio-friendly hit.

"[20][21] "Jamie's Cryin'" was one of five songs included on a sampler EP that Warner Bros. Records put out in advance of the release Van Halen (along with "Runnin' with the Devil", "You Really Got Me", "Eruption" and "Ice Cream Man").

[26] Roth sang a version of "Jamie's Cryin'" on the 2006 tribute album Strummin' with the Devil: The Southern Side of Van Halen.

[29][30] Producer Matt Dike incorporated parts of the intro of "Jamie's Cryin'" as well as some guitar licks into "Wild Thing" in order to give it a "West Coast vibe.

"[29] Van Halen did not originally give permission to sample the song and sued over it, but eventually an out-of-court settlement was reached, apparently for $180,000.