Oh, where do I even start with “The Great Pretender”? This song is an absolute classic, a gem from the golden age of rock and roll. Imagine yourself in the 1950s, a time when music was all about raw emotion and soul. This song, performed by The Platters and released in 1955, captures that era’s essence perfectly.
“The Great Pretender” is all about the bittersweet experience of putting on a brave face while hiding inner turmoil. Haven’t we all been there at some point? It’s about pretending everything is okay when you’re actually heartbroken inside. The song’s lyrics, “Oh yes, I’m the great pretender / Pretending that I’m doing well,” speak to anyone who’s ever had to put on a smile and push through tough times. It’s so relatable, even decades after its release.
What makes this song truly special is not just its relatable theme, but also its captivating melody and powerful vocal delivery. Tony Williams’ lead vocals are simply mesmerizing. He had this incredible ability to convey deep emotion, making you feel every word he sang. The harmony of The Platters is like a warm embrace, perfectly complementing Tony’s voice and adding to the song’s emotional depth.
And then there’s the backstory. Written by Buck Ram, the group’s manager and producer, the song was born out of a need for a follow-up hit after “Only You (And You Alone).” Buck Ram penned it in about 20 minutes, inspired by his own experiences and the struggles he observed in others. It quickly resonated with audiences, climbing to the top of the charts and solidifying The Platters’ place in music history.
Listening to “The Great Pretender” is like taking a journey back in time. You can almost picture the dimly lit dance halls and the swaying couples lost in the music. It’s a song that transcends generations, reminding us that no matter how much things change, some feelings are universal.
So, next time you’re feeling a bit down, give “The Great Pretender” a listen. Let Tony Williams’ voice wash over you, and remember that you’re not alone in your pretense. We’ve all been there, and sometimes, sharing that experience—even through a song—can make it a little easier to bear
Video
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’ve played a game but to my real shame
You’ve left me to dream all alone.
Too real is this feeling of make-believe
Too real when I feel what my heart can’t conceal.
Oh-oh yes I’m the great pretender
Just laughing and gay like a clown
I seem to be but I’m not, you see
I’m wearing my heart like a crown
Pretending that you’re still around.
Oh-oh-oh yes I’m the great pretender (Ooh-ooh)
Pretending that I’m doing well (Ooh-ooh)
My need is such I pretend too much
I’m lonely but no one can tell.
Too real is this feeling of make-believe
Too real when I feel what my heart can’t conceal.
Oh-oh yes I’m the great pretender (Ooh-ooh)
Just laughing and gay like a clown (Ooh-ooh)
I seem to be but I’m not, you see
I’m wearing my heart like a crown
Pretending that you’re still around
Still around…