Introduction
Released in 1955, “The Great Pretender” by The Platters wasn’t just a chart-topping hit, it became a timeless anthem of heartbreak veiled in a smile. Its origins are steeped in music history. The Platters, known for their smooth doo-wop harmonies, needed a follow-up to their debut success, “Only You.” Enter Buck Ram, their producer and a seasoned songwriter himself. Legend has it, with pressure mounting, Ram penned the entire song in a mere 15 minutes, scribbling lyrics in a Las Vegas hotel restroom.
The song’s magic lies in its relatable paradox. The vocalist, Tony Williams, croons of being the “great pretender,” hiding his loneliness behind a mask of cheer. He puts on a brave face, laughing and acting carefree, all while his heart aches for a lost love. The lyrics, a poignant mix of vulnerability and resilience, resonate with anyone who’s ever masked their pain with a song and dance.
Beyond its emotional core, “The Great Pretender” broke ground musically. Its doo-wop roots intertwined with elements of R&B and pop, creating a sound that transcended genres. The Platters’ signature vocal harmonies, led by the unforgettable Zola Taylor, added another layer of depth, transforming the song into a sonic tapestry of bittersweet yearning.
The song’s impact stretched far beyond its initial success. It topped the charts in both the US and UK, becoming a doo-wop cornerstone and influencing countless artists across generations. From Elvis Presley to The Beach Boys, its influence permeated rock and roll, solidifying its place as a musical landmark.
So, when you hear the first notes of “The Great Pretender,” remember its storied past, its emotional honesty, and its genre-bending spirit. It’s more than just a song; it’s a window into the soul of doo-wop, a testament to the power of music to express the complexities of heartbreak, and a reminder that even the “great pretenders” deserve a little sympathy.
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Lyrics
Oh-oh, yes, I’m the great pretenderPretending that I’m doing wellMy need is such, I pretend too muchI’m lonely, but no one can tellOh-oh, yes, I’m the great pretenderAdrift in a world of my ownI played the game but to my real shameYou’ve left me to grieve all aloneToo real is this feeling of make-believeToo real when I feel what my heart can’t conceal(Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh)Yes, I’m the great pretenderJust laughin’ and gay like a clownI seem to be what I’m not, you seeI’m wearing my heart like a crownPretending that you’re still aroundToo real is this feeling of make-believeToo real when I feel what my heart can’t conceal(Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh)Yes, I’m the great pretenderJust laughin’ and gay like a clownI seem to be what I’m not, you seeI’m wearing my heart like a crownPretending that you’re still around(Still around)