About the song
“The Great Pretender” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that has resonated with audiences for generations. Released in 1955, this timeless ballad by The Platters offers a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of human emotion. With its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, the song has secured its place in the pantheon of American popular music.
Penned by Buck Ram, the song’s composer and the Platters’ manager, “The Great Pretender” is a masterclass in songwriting. The lyrics, filled with evocative imagery and a sense of melancholy, delve into the themes of deception and unrequited love. Ram’s decision to write the song in a matter of minutes during a hotel stay is a testament to his songwriting prowess.
The Platters’ rendition of the song, featuring the soulful vocals of Tony Williams, perfectly captures the song’s emotional depth. The arrangement, with its lush harmonies and understated instrumentation, creates a timeless atmosphere that has captivated listeners for decades. The song’s success can be attributed not only to its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics but also to the Platters’ impeccable performance.
Beyond its commercial success, “The Great Pretender” has had a profound impact on popular culture. The song has been covered by numerous artists, each adding their own unique interpretation to the classic. Freddie Mercury’s powerful rendition, for instance, brought a fresh perspective to the song, while Sam Cooke’s version is said to have inspired Chrissie Hynde to name her band The Pretenders.
“The Great Pretender” is a song that continues to resonate with listeners today. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to connect with people on a deep emotional level. The song’s inclusion in the Grammy Hall of Fame and its placement on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time further solidify its status as a musical masterpiece.”
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Lyrics
Oh-oh, yes I’m the great pretender
Pretending that I’m doing well
My need is such I pretend too much
I’m lonely but no one can tellOh-oh, yes I’m the great pretender
Adrift in a world of my own
I’ve played the game but to my real shame
You’ve left me to grieve all aloneToo real is this feeling of make-believe
Too real when I feel what my heart can’t concealYes, I’m the great pretender
Just laughin’ and gay like a clown
I seem to be what I’m not, you see
I’m wearing my heart like a crown
Pretending that you’re still aroundToo real is this feeling of make-believe
Too real when I feel what my heart can’t concealYes, I’m the great pretender
Just laughin’ and gay like a clown
I seem to be what I’m not, you see
I’m wearing my heart like a crown
Pretending that you’re still around