Clowns have been a fixture in popular culture for centuries, and have been the subject of many songs over the years. From sad clowns to happy clowns, there’s a song for every type of clown out there. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best songs with “clown” in the title.
One of the most famous songs about clowns is “The Tears of a Clown” by Smokey Robinson and the Miracles.
The song was a #1 hit in the US and UK in 1970, and has since become a classic. The lyrics tell the story of a clown who hides his true feelings behind a smile, but is actually very sad inside.
Another great song about clowns is “Clown” by Emeli Sandé. The song was released in 2012 and is about people who will do anything to become famous, even if it means behaving like a clown. The lyrics are powerful and emotional, and the song has become a fan favorite.
Top 10 Best Songs with Clown in the Title
Clowns have always been a popular subject in music, whether it’s for their playful nature or their darker, more sinister side. Here are the top 10 best songs with “clown” in the title:
Rank | Song Title | Artist |
1 | Tears of a Clown | Smokey Robinson & The Miracles |
2 | Death of a Clown | The Kinks |
3 | Send in the Clowns | Judy Collins |
4 | Clown | Emeli Sandé |
5 | The Tears of a Clown | Iron & Wine |
6 | The Clown | The Hollies |
7 | Be a Clown | Cole Porter |
8 | Clown in the Mirror | Royal Hunt |
9 | Clown Dream | Tom Waits |
10 | Pocket of a Clown | Dwight Yoakam |
At the top of the list is “Tears of a Clown” by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, a classic Motown hit that tells the story of a clown hiding his true feelings behind a smile. The Kinks’ “Death of a Clown” takes a darker turn, exploring the loneliness and isolation that can come with being a performer.
Judy Collins’ “Send in the Clowns” is a beautiful ballad that has been covered by countless artists over the years, while Emeli Sandé’s “Clown” is a more modern take on the subject, exploring the lengths people will go to become famous.
Iron & Wine’s “The Tears of a Clown” is a haunting cover of the Smokey Robinson classic, while The Hollies’ “The Clown” is a catchy pop tune with a memorable chorus. Cole Porter’s “Be a Clown” is a fun, upbeat number from the classic musical “The Pirate,” while Royal Hunt’s “Clown in the Mirror” is a prog-rock epic with soaring vocals and intricate instrumentation.
Tom Waits’ “Clown Dream” is a surreal, atmospheric piece that showcases the singer’s unique style, while Dwight Yoakam’s “Pocket of a Clown” is a country-tinged ballad with a twangy guitar and heartfelt lyrics.
Honorable Mentions
While there are several great songs with “clown” in the title, there are a few that didn’t quite make the top of the list but are still worth mentioning.
- Clowns” by Korn: This heavy metal song explores the darker side of clowns and the fear they can evoke in people.
- Be a Clown” from the movie “The Pirate”: Sung by Gene Kelly and Judy Garland, this classic song is a fun and upbeat tribute to clowns.
Another honorable mention goes to “The Tears of a Clown” by The Miracles, which was the group’s only #1 hit while Smokey Robinson was their lead singer.
While the song doesn’t specifically mention clowns in the title, it explores the idea of hiding one’s true emotions behind a smile, much like a clown.
Overall, these songs may not have made the top of the list, but they still offer unique perspectives on clowns and are worth a listen for any clown enthusiast.
The Meaning Behind the Songs
Clowns have been a popular theme in music for decades, with many songs exploring the complex emotions and experiences of these colorful performers.
Some songs use clowns as a metaphor for the masks we wear in daily life, while others focus on the sadness and loneliness that can come with the clown’s life.
Here are a few examples of some of the best songs with clown in the title and the meanings behind them:
The Tears of a Clown by Smokey Robinson & the Miracles
This classic song, released in 1967, is based on the Italian opera Pagliacci, which tells the story of a clown who must make the audience laugh while he weeps behind his makeup because his wife betrayed him.
The Tears of a Clown explores similar themes of hiding one’s true emotions behind a mask of humor and the pain that can come with that.
Send in the Clowns by Judy Collins
This haunting ballad, written by Stephen Sondheim for the musical A Little Night Music, has been covered by many artists over the years, but Judy Collins’ version remains one of the most popular.
The song is often interpreted as a commentary on the futility of love and the ways in which we can be blinded by our own illusions, much like a clown who puts on a happy face even when he is feeling sad inside.
Circus by Britney Spears
Released in 2008, Circus is a pop anthem that celebrates the glitz and glamour of the circus, with Britney Spears singing about being the ringmaster of her own life.
While the song doesn’t delve into the deeper emotions associated with clowns, it does capture the excitement and energy of the circus world.
The Greatest Show by Hugh Jackman
This song, from the hit movie musical The Greatest Showman, is a rousing tribute to the spectacle and wonder of the circus. While the lyrics don’t specifically mention clowns, the song captures the same sense of awe and magic that draws people to the circus, and the way in which the performers put on a show that is both thrilling and inspiring.
These are just a few examples of the many songs that explore the world of clowns and the emotions they evoke. Whether they are celebrating the joy and excitement of the circus or delving into the deeper, darker aspects of the clown’s life, these songs remind us of the power of music to capture the complexity of the human experience.
Conclusion
When it comes to songs with “clown” in the title, there are certainly plenty of options to choose from. From classic hits like “Tears of a Clown” by Smokey Robinson & the Miracles to more recent tracks like “Clown” by Emeli Sandé, there is something for everyone.
While some of these songs may be lighthearted and fun, others touch on deeper themes like heartbreak and loneliness. Regardless of the tone, however, each of these songs offers a unique perspective on what it means to be a clown.
Whether you’re a fan of country, pop, or rock, there is sure to be a song on this list that speaks to you. So the next time you’re in the mood for some clown-themed tunes, be sure to check out some of these classics.