Song Details
- Artist
- Smokey Robinson and the Miracles
- Album
- Going to a Go-Go
- Released
- 1965
- Genre
- Motown, Soul
- Length
- 2:55
¶ Deep Analysis
Smokey Robinson is often called America's greatest poet for lyrics like "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."
The Sad Clown
This song is the ultimate "sad clown" anthem, hiding heartbreak behind a smiling public persona. The contrast between the upbeat, doo-wop inspired music and the devastating lyrics creates a tension that is pure Motown magic.
The production is pristine, featuring Marv Tarplin's distinctive opening guitar riff which sets a melancholy yet sweet tone that drives the entire track.
@ History & Impact
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1
Pete Townshend's Obsession
Pete Townshend of The Who was obsessed with the song's "chord substitution" and tried to replicate it in his own songwriting.
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2
Million Airs
It is a multi-million aired song on US radio and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2007.