About the song
“The Great Pretender” is a classic song by The Platters, a renowned American vocal group that achieved massive popularity in the 1950s. Released in 1955, this timeless piece was written by Buck Ram, who was not only The Platters’ manager but also a talented songwriter responsible for many of their hits.
The song stands out for its poignant lyrics and the smooth, emotive voice of lead singer Tony Williams. “The Great Pretender” delves into themes of heartache and the facade people often put up to mask their true feelings. The song’s relatable message and melodic charm quickly resonated with audiences, making it a significant hit.
“The Great Pretender” topped the Billboard charts in the United States, reaching the number one position on both the R&B and pop charts. This success marked The Platters as a formidable force in the music industry during that era. The song’s popularity extended beyond the U.S., earning The Platters international acclaim and establishing their legacy as one of the most influential vocal groups in history.
Included in their 1956 album “The Platters,” “The Great Pretender” became a defining track of the group’s career. The song’s enduring appeal has led to numerous covers by artists across various genres, including a notable version by Freddie Mercury in 1987, which brought the song back into the limelight.
The Platters’ unique blend of doo-wop, R&B, and rock and roll, exemplified in “The Great Pretender,” continues to captivate listeners decades after its release. The song remains a testament to the group’s lasting influence and the timeless quality of their music.
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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 played the game but to my real shame
You’ve left me to grieve all alone
Too real is this feeling of make-believe
Too real when I feel what my heart can’t conceal
(Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Yes, I’m the great pretender
Just laughin’ and gay like a clown
I seem to be what I’m not, you see
I’m wearing my heart like a crown
Pretending that you’re still around
Too real is this feeling of make-believe
Too real when I feel what my heart can’t conceal
(Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh)
Yes, I’m the great pretender
Just laughin’ and gay like a clown
I seem to be what I’m not, you see
I’m wearing my heart like a crown
Pretending that you’re still around
(Still around)