About the song
## The Tears of a Clown: A Timeless Ballad of Heartbreak
**Smokey Robinson & The Miracles**’ “The Tears of a Clown” is a timeless classic that has resonated with audiences for decades. Released in 1965, this heartfelt ballad explores the depths of heartbreak and the enduring pain of loss. Robinson’s soulful vocals, coupled with the Miracles’ impeccable harmonies, elevate this song to a masterpiece of Motown music.
The song’s introspective lyrics delve into the emotional turmoil of a man who is consumed by grief. He describes his heart as “a broken toy” and his tears as “a clown’s parade.” This imagery paints a vivid picture of the protagonist’s despair, as he grapples with the overwhelming sadness of losing someone he loves. Robinson’s vocal delivery is both tender and powerful, capturing the raw emotion of the song’s subject matter.
The melody of “The Tears of a Clown” is both haunting and beautiful. The minor key creates a sense of melancholy, while the rhythmic complexity adds depth and interest. The song’s arrangement is sparse, allowing Robinson’s vocals to take center stage. The backing vocals provide a subtle counterpoint, enhancing the overall emotional impact of the piece.
The song’s bridge is a particularly poignant moment. Here, Robinson sings about the futility of trying to forget his pain. He acknowledges that time may heal his wounds, but the memory of his lost love will always remain with him. This section is delivered with a sense of resignation, as if the protagonist has accepted the inevitability of his sorrow.
“The Tears of a Clown” is a testament to the enduring power of music. It is a song that has touched the hearts of millions of people, regardless of their age or background. Robinson’s performance is a masterclass in vocal expression, and the Miracles’ harmonies add a layer of richness and complexity to the piece. This timeless ballad is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates great music.
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Lyrics
Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah
Now if there’s a smile on my face
It’s only there trying to fool the public
But when it comes down to fooling you
Now honey that’s quite a different subject
But don’t let my glad expression
Give you the wrong impression
Really I’m sad, oh, I’m sadder than sad
You’re gone and I’m hurting so bad
Like a clown I appear to be glad (sad, sad, sad, sad)
Now, there’s some sad things known to man
But ain’t too much sadder than
The tears of a clown when there’s no one around, mm
Oh, yeah, baby
Now if I appear to be carefree
It’s only to camouflage my sadness
In order to shield my pride, I try
To cover this hurt with a show of gladness
But don’t let my show convince you
That I’ve been happy since you
Decided to go (why did you go?)
Oh, I need you so (I need you so)
I’m hurt and I want you to know (want you to know)
But for others, I put on a show, ooh, oh (it’s just a show)
There’s some sad things known to man
But ain’t too much sadder than
The tears of a clown, when there’s no one around, oh, yeah
Just like Pagliacci did
I try to keep my surface hid
Smiling in the public, I
But in my lonely room, I cry
The tears of a clown
When there’s no one around, oh, yeah, baby
Now if there’s a smile on my face
Don’t let my glad expression
Give you the wrong impression
Don’t let this smile I wear
Make you think that I don’t care
When really, I’m sad
Hurtin’ so bad