The Joke
Brandi Carlile
Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer
You're feeling nervous, aren't you, boy? With your quiet voice and impeccable style Don't ever let them steal your joy And your gentle ways, to keep 'em from running wild They can kick dirt in your face Dress you down, and tell you that your place Is in the middle, when they hate the way you shine I see you tugging on your shirt Trying to hide inside of it and hide how much it hurts Let 'em laugh while they can Let 'em spin, let 'em scatter in the wind I have been to the movies, I've seen how it ends And the joke's on them You get discouraged, don't you, girl? It's your brother's world for a while longer We gotta dance with the devil on a river To beat the stream Call it living the dream, call it kicking the ladder They come to kick dirt in your face To call you weak and then displace you After carrying your baby on your back across the desert I saw your eyes behind your hair And you're looking tired, but you don't look scared Let 'em laugh while they can Let 'em spin, let 'em scatter in the wind I have been to the movies, I've seen how it ends And the joke's on them Let 'em laugh while they can Let 'em spin, let 'em scatter in the wind I have been to the movies, I've seen how it ends And the joke's on them
Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!
Written by: Brandi M. Carlile, David W. Jr. Cobb, Phillip John Hanseroth, Timothy Jay Hanseroth
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
12 facts about this song
Artist Background"The Joke" is a song by American singer-songwriter, Brandi Carlile, known for her folk and Americana music style.
|
Song ReleaseThe song was released as the lead single from her sixth studio album, "By The Way, I Forgive You" in November 2017.
|
Song Background"The Joke" is considered a powerful ballad dedicated to those feeling marginalized.
|
Recognition and AcclaimIn 2019, "The Joke" won the Grammy Awards for Best American Roots Song and Best American Roots Performance.
|
ImpactThe track has been praised for its lyrics that contain messages of strength and resilience, providing hope and support for those needing it.
|
Chart PerformanceThe song also had chart success, peaking at number 4 on the Billboard Adult Alternative Songs chart.
|
Music VideoThe music video for “The Joke” comprises of close-up shots of various people, reflecting the message in Carlile's lyrics and highlighting individuals from diverse backgrounds.
|
Song InterpretationThe track particularly dedicates its verses to children, immigrants, and women rising beyond societal expectations.
|
CollaboratorsThe album, which includes the song, was produced by Dave Cobb and Shooter Jennings.
|
Live PerformancesBrandi Carlile delivered a memorable live performance of "The Joke" at the 61st Annual Grammy Awards. The performance drew widespread acclaim with many considering it one of the standout performances of the night.
|
Lyrics InspirationIn an interview, Carlile revealed that the song lyrics were inspired by her encounter with gender stereotypes in her youth.
|
Critical Acclaim"The Joke" was universally praised by music critics and fellow artists. Singer Adele even included it on her playlist of songs that inspired her.
|
Citation
Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:
Style:MLAChicagoAPA
"The Joke Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 3 Jun 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/35948713/Brandi+Carlile/The+Joke>.
Discuss the The Joke Lyrics with the community:
Report Comment
We're doing our best to make sure our content is useful, accurate and safe.
If by any chance you spot an inappropriate comment while navigating through our website please use this form to let us know, and we'll take care of it shortly.
Attachment
You need to be logged in to favorite.
Log In