About the song
The Comedian is a song written by Elvis Costello and originally recorded by Roy Orbison for his 1986 album, In Dreams. The song was released as the second single from the album and reached number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Orbison’s version of the song is a classic example of his dramatic and operatic style. His soaring vocals and the lush orchestral arrangement create a sense of grandeur and heartbreak. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who has been betrayed by his lover. He watches her from afar as she laughs and dances with another man, and he realizes that he has lost her forever.
The song’s title, The Comedian, is a reference to the fact that the man in the song is putting on a brave face for the world. He is pretending to be happy, even though he is heartbroken inside. This theme of putting on a false front is one that Orbison explored throughout his career.
The Comedian is a powerful and moving song that has been covered by many artists, including Elvis Costello, k.d. lang, and The xx. It is a song that will stay with you long after you have heard it.
Some other interesting facts about the song:
- The song was inspired by Elvis Costello’s experience of seeing Roy Orbison perform live. Costello was struck by Orbison’s stage presence and his ability to connect with the audience.
- The song was originally written for Orbison’s 1985 album, Class of ’55, but it was not included on the final tracklist.
- The song was featured in the 1987 film, The Untouchables.
- The song was covered by k.d. lang for the 1995 tribute album, Roy Orbison and Friends: A Black and White Night.
- The song was covered by The xx for the 2010 soundtrack to the film, Somewhere.
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Lyrics
I fell under such gentle persuasionYou can’t refuse it’s like a home from homeMeanwhile in the Motor car kingdomThey’re finding that all that glitters is not chromeThe social circle have these cardiac complaintsTheir hearts are empty when their hands are fullAll these new found fond acquaintancesTurn out to be the red rag to my bull[Chorus ]And I’m up while the dawn is breakingEven though my heart is achingI should be drinking a toast to absent friendsInstead of these comediansI’ve looked into these eyes upon reflectionThey’ve seen the face of love, they’ve seen a fewWhat kind of love is this upon inspectionYou’ll be the last to know who’s fooling who