About the song
In the realm of music, few songs have managed to transcend the boundaries of time, genre, and cultural context, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of listeners across generations. One such masterpiece is “The Great Pretender,” a timeless classic by the legendary American vocal group, The Platters. Released in 1956, this iconic song has become an integral part of the American musical heritage, its haunting melody and poignant lyrics weaving a spell that continues to captivate audiences to this day.
The Platters, formed in 1952, were one of the most successful and influential vocal groups of the 1950s and 1960s. With their smooth harmonies, stylish choreography, and charismatic stage presence, they dominated the charts, producing a string of hits that included “Only You,” “My Prayer,” and “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes.” However, it is “The Great Pretender” that stands out as a crowning achievement, a song that showcases the group’s remarkable vocal range, precision, and emotional depth.
Written by Buck Ram, the song’s creator, “The Great Pretender” tells the story of a person who, despite being a master of deception, is ultimately unable to conceal their true feelings. The lyrics are a poignant exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of love, loss, and the complexities of the human heart. The song’s narrator, a “great pretender,” is a master of disguise, able to convincingly portray different personas, but ultimately, their true emotions betray them, revealing the depth of their vulnerability.
The song’s arrangement is equally noteworthy, featuring a lush orchestral backing, courtesy of the legendary arranger, Dick Fox. The Platters’ harmonies are, as always, sublime, with lead vocalist Tony Williams delivering a heart-wrenching performance that perfectly captures the song’s emotional intensity. The song’s iconic opening, with its soaring strings and Williams’ plaintive vocals, sets the tone for a hauntingly beautiful ballad that has become synonymous with the group’s signature sound.
Over the years, “The Great Pretender” has been covered by numerous artists, including The Beach Boys, The Carpenters, and Elton John, but The Platters’ original version remains the most beloved and enduring. The song’s timeless appeal lies in its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia, transporting listeners back to a bygone era of elegance, sophistication, and romance. It is a testament to the power of music to transcend time and touch the hearts of generations, a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.
In conclusion, “The Great Pretender” is a masterpiece that embodies the essence of The Platters’ unique sound, a symphony of harmonies, orchestral arrangements, and emotional depth that has become an integral part of American musical heritage. This timeless classic continues to captivate audiences, its haunting melody and poignant lyrics weaving a spell that will forever be etched in the annals of music history.
Video
https://youtu.be/IEzfhclKO8Q
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 tell
Oh-oh, yes, I’m the great pretender
Adrift in a world of my own
I played the game but to my real shame
You’ve left me to grieve all alone
Too real is this feeling of make-believe
Too real when I feel what my heart can’t conceal
(Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Yes, 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
Too real is this feeling of make-believe
Too real when I feel what my heart can’t conceal
(Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Yes, 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
(Still around)