The Untold Story of ‘Tears of a Clown’ by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles

Introduction

When it comes to iconic Motown hits, “Tears of a Clown” by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles stands out as a masterpiece that transcends generations. Released in 1970, this timeless track continues to captivate music lovers worldwide with its irresistible melody and heartfelt lyrics. In this article, we’ll delve into the enchanting world of “Tears of a Clown” and explore some fascinating insights about the artist behind it.

Did You Know?

1. Motown Royalty: Smokey Robinson & The Miracles were an integral part of the Motown Records roster. Smokey Robinson himself is often referred to as the “King of Motown” for his immense influence on the label’s success.
2. Hidden Brilliance: “Tears of a Clown” is a unique song that was initially released as a B-side to “I Second That Emotion.” Surprisingly, it was initially overlooked, but radio DJs recognized its magic and flipped the record to play the B-side, turning it into a massive hit.
3. Stevie Wonder’s Touch: What many may not know is that the musical genius Stevie Wonder co-wrote and played harmonica on this track, adding an extra layer of musical genius to the song.
4. A Chart-Topping Success: “Tears of a Clown” is not just a beloved classic; it also climbed the charts, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1970, making it one of Smokey Robinson & The Miracles’ most celebrated songs.
5. Enduring Legacy: With its infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Tears of a Clown” has been covered and sampled by numerous artists over the years, solidifying its place in the annals of music history.

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Lyrics: Tears of a Clown

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 hurtin’ so bad
Like a clown I pretend to be glad

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

Oh yeah, baby

Now if I appear to be carefree
It’s only to camouflage my sadness
In order to shield my pride I’ve tried
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
Oh, I need you so
I’m hurt and I want you to know
But for others I put on a show

Oh, there’s some sad things known to man
But there 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 sadness hid
Smiling in the public eye
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
Really, I’m sad
Hurtin’ so bad