About the song
Gary Lewis & The Playboys, a group synonymous with the British Invasion era, released “Everybody Loves a Clown” in 1967. This upbeat pop song, with its infectious melody and catchy lyrics, quickly became a chart-topping hit. But beneath its cheerful exterior lies a deeper, more poignant theme that resonates with listeners of all ages.
At its core, “Everybody Loves a Clown” is a song about the human condition. The lyrics paint a picture of a world where everyone is putting on a happy face, hiding their true emotions behind a facade of joy. The protagonist, a clown, represents the societal expectation to constantly entertain and make others laugh, even when they themselves are feeling sad or lonely.
The song’s opening lines, “Everybody loves a clown, they laugh at all my funny sounds,” immediately set the tone for the narrative. The clown is portrayed as a figure of amusement, a source of joy for others. However, the repetition of the phrase “everybody loves a clown” suggests a sense of detachment and isolation. It’s as if the clown is a mere object of entertainment, valued only for their ability to make others laugh.
The chorus, “But when the show is over, I’m alone,” further emphasizes the loneliness that lies beneath the surface of the clown’s cheerful persona. The image of the clown standing alone after the show is over is a powerful metaphor for the feeling of being disconnected from others, even in the midst of a crowd.
The song’s bridge, “I’m just a lonely fellow, with a funny, painted face,” reinforces the idea that the clown is more than just a character. They are a real person with real emotions, and their outward appearance masks a deep-seated sadness.
“Everybody Loves a Clown” is a timeless piece of music that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics have ensured its enduring popularity. While the song may seem lighthearted on the surface, it delves into the complexities of human nature and the universal experience of loneliness. It’s a reminder that even the happiest people may be hiding their true feelings behind a mask.
Video
Lyrics
Everybody Loves A Clown
Gary Lewis and the Playboys
Written by Gary Lewis, Snuff Garrett, and Leon Russell
Peak chart position # 4 in 1965
Everybody loves a clown, so why don’t you?
Everybody laughs at the things I say and do
They all laugh when they see me comin’
But you don’t laugh, you just go home runnin’
Everybody loves a clown, so why can’t you?
A clown has feelings, too
I joke around at a party when you are there
But you don’t laugh, you don’t look, you just don’t care
If you wonder why this clown is cryin’
Look a little closer, inside I’m dyin’
It’s not easy to be in love, you see
When you’re a clown like me’
I don’t know how to say that I love you
’cause you would smile and say “Tell a joke or two”
Yes, I’m a clown but I don’t want to be
Why can’tcha see the other side of me?
Guess I’ll be the guy who plays the part
Of a clown with a broken heart
Dreamin’ of your love and not knowing where to start
Dreamin’ of your love and not knowin’ where to start
FADE
Dreamin’ of your love and not knowin’ where to start