Songs About Circus
It’s exciting, enjoyable, and fascinating to go to the circus. They come not only for the acts, but also the exciting music. You might be wondering, “are there songs about the circus?” Where did these tunes come from, and how did they come to be inspired by a circus?
Here are some great circus tunes that you may or may not know. It’s possible that the circus served as inspiration for some of these well-known pop songs.
1. “Send in the Clowns” by Judy Collins
Judy Collins’s “Send in the Clowns” is almost certainly going to be the first song that comes to anyone’s mind when they are asked to mention songs about Circus.
This song’s unusual title metaphor originates from the world of the circus, where real clowns are a common sight. It’s a metaphor again, but only within the context of the song. Perhaps the best way to explain what it means in context is to compare it to the expression “isn’t that ironic?” ’
Judy Collins is, in effect, reflecting sarcastically on a love encounter with the recipient that did not turn out as planned. As an alternative, she finds the fact that they are no longer a couple to be humorous in a sardonic way.
The song’s first half suggests that they are ultimately incompatible, despite their best efforts. Or, let’s consider another angle. Since the narrator thought the recipient was the right one, they were addressed directly. It was clear that he had strong feelings for her as well.
But alas, as fate would have it, things didn’t work out that way. Now the singer can’t help but chuckle at the absurdity of the situation.
2. “Circus” by Britney Spears
Britney Spears’ “Circus” can be interpreted in two different ways, each of which is valid depending on the listener’s point of view.
Claude Kelly, the song’s composer, describes Britney Spears’ life at the time the song was written as a “circus” in the media. The mid-2000s were a trying time for Britney, as she dealt with her rising celebrity, pregnancy, and the end of her marriage.
One interpretation of this song is that it’s about how people treated Brit’s life like a circus because of how interesting it was to watch. However, even that claim contains a hint of egotism: The fact that such a level of interest was given to Spears indicates her prominence and power.
When it comes to Britney’s career, though, the word “circus” is more than just a metaphor; it’s a rallying cry. Her confidence in her abilities as an entertainer is bolstered by this, she says. Or, as Spears puts it, in terms of live performances, the benchmark is set by the circus because it “makes people in awe.”
The opening verse and chorus particularly emphasize this theme, which relates to her potential as a performer. The singer describes the excitement she feels when the “spotlight is on her” in the verse before the chorus.
3. Joker by Dax
This song was included in the list because the video shows the artist dressed up as a clown. Somewhere in the song, he even sings, come, join my circus…
The song “Joker” by Dax is a powerful catharsis for anyone who has ever been the target of cyberbullying. When the song begins, it’s calm and undulating, but then he breaks into his “chopper-style” vocals and the intensity is turned up to eleven.
Beautifully arranged, the music features a blend of warm piano and his powerful vocals over an organic groove and a thumping bassline. It’s a great tune with a soothing melody that sinks in just so and makes you stop and pay attention.
Dax’s performance on “Joker” is outstanding. His voice fits in seamlessly with the rest of the song’s production, and he expertly plays the part of “the Joker.” You can tell how deeply he connected with the concept behind this song. Syncopated vocals, a whirling melody, ethereal strings, and a hefty bassline all contribute to the song’s four-minute narrative.
The track’s gloominess and the vocalist’s apparent anguish are difficult to ignore. The song’s soaring emotion works in tandem to create an atmosphere that compels the listener to stop moping and take action against this harmful practice.
4. Circus – Tom Waits
Another maze you won’t like getting lost in is “Circus” by Tom Waits. Yodeling Elaine, “Horse-Face” Ethel, “The Queen of the Air,” and “Tripod,” an orangutan that sings like a crazy clown, are all introduced in this tune.
Those who like this song thought Waits was spot-on when he compared listening to “Circus” to sucking on electric candy. As the song has no words, there is no singing involved. You may think of it as LSD-drizzled cotton candy or electric-spun sugar. Listening is the only option if you want to understand what we’re saying.
5. ‘Sabre Dance’ by Aram Khachaturian
The “Sabre Dance” is a highlight of the third and final act of Aram Khachaturian’s opera Gayane. These dancers display their extraordinary skill with the sabre. However, despite the song’s status as a landmark musical composition of the 20th century, surprisingly little is known about its origins.
It’s no secret that the “Sabre Dance” is a popular dance for both acrobats and figure skaters in the circus. Many experts in the field of music agree that this song is not only one of the most memorable, but also one of the most intriguing ever composed. The composition has been refined and is now often heard in the backdrop of television shows devoted to traveling circuses.
6. ‘Entry of the Gladiator’s by Julius Fucik
It would appear that no one knows the name of the music that plays during the “Entry of the Gladiators” portion of many opening shows at circuses all over the world, even though this song is frequently performed. Strangely, it’s called by this name, but what it is is a recreation of what antique circuses used to look like.
The ancient Romans believed that the circus was a fight to the death. In the past, vicious fights would be performed in circuses, and the loser would be thrown into a cage with lions. Because lions have been a part of circuses both in the past and in the present, this song appears to be an excellent fit for both types of circuses.
