About the song
“The Tracks of My Tears” stands as an iconic testament to the creative genius of Smokey Robinson and his fellow Miracles members Pete Moore and Marv Tarplin. Released in 1965 on Motown’s Tamla label, this R&B masterpiece quickly ascended the charts, becoming one of the group’s most beloved and enduring hits.
Crafted from the heartfelt collaboration of Robinson, Moore, and Tarplin, the song’s origins are rooted in Tarplin’s evocative guitar melody, which Robinson skillfully molded into a poignant lyrical narrative. Its introspective lyrics delve into themes of heartbreak and emotional turmoil, conveyed through Robinson’s soulful vocals and supported by the harmonious backdrop of The Miracles.
Upon its release, “The Tracks of My Tears” captivated audiences worldwide, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard R&B chart and No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its impact transcended mere chart success, earning accolades such as induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame and recognition by the Recording Industry Association of America and The National Endowment for the Arts among the greatest songs of the 20th century.
Critically acclaimed for its innovative blend of pop, R&B, and orchestral elements, the song’s enduring appeal is underscored by its continued presence on numerous “best of” lists in the music industry. Rolling Stone, for instance, hailed it as the 50th greatest song of all time and later as the greatest Motown song ever recorded.
Beyond its commercial success, “The Tracks of My Tears” remains a touchstone in cultural history, preserved in the United States Library of Congress for its significant cultural, historical, and aesthetic contributions. Its impact on subsequent generations of musicians is profound, evidenced by its frequent covers and tributes over the decades.
With its rich tapestry of musical talent, including contributions from The Miracles, the Funk Brothers, and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, “The Tracks of My Tears” epitomizes the Motown sound at its pinnacle. From its poignant lyrics to its unforgettable melodies, the song continues to resonate, reaffirming its place as a timeless classic that transcends generations and genres alike.
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Lyrics
Tu do do do, tu do do do, tu do do do, tu do do do do do do
People say I’m the life of the party
‘Cause I tell a joke or two
Although I might be laughing loud and hearty
Deep inside I’m blue
So take a good look at my face
You’ll see my smile looks out of place
If you look closer, it’s easy to trace
The tracks of my tears
I need you (need you), need you (need you)
Since you left me if you see me with another girl
Seeming like I’m having fun
Although she may be cute
She’s just a substitute
Because you’re the permanent one
So take a good look at my face
Oh, you’ll see my smile looks out of place
If you look a little bit closer, it’s easy to trace
Oh, the tracks of my tears
Oh, I need you (need you), need you (need you)
Hey yeah, outside I’m masquerading
Inside my hope is fading
Just a clown oh yeah
Since you put me down
My smile is my make up
I wear since my break up with you
Baby, take a good look at my face
Oh, you’ll see my smile looks out of place
Yeah, just look closer, it’s easy to trace
The tracks of my tears, baby baby, baby, baby, baby, baby
Baby, take a good look at my face
Yeah, you’ll see my smile looks out of place
Ooh, look a little bit closer, it’s easy to trace