Best Fake Smile

James Bay

About Best Fake Smile

"Best Fake Smile" is a song by English singer-songwriter James Bay. It was released in the United Kingdom on 2 March 2016 through Republic Records as the fifth single from his debut studio album Chaos and the Calm (2015).


Year:
2015
3:26
#1

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No you don't have to wear your best fake smile
Don't have to stand there and burn inside
Oh oh oh if you don't like it

She's working late and making eyes at the door
She's sick of everybody up on her floor
She wants the sun in her eyes but all she gets is ignored

She used to put it out and get it all back
But now she's slipping trying to carry the act
She's sweating under the lights, now she's beginning to crack

Woah

No you don't have to wear your best fake smile
Don't have to stand there and burn inside
Oh oh oh if you don't like it

And you don't have to care so don't pretend
Nobody needs a best fake friend
Oh oh oh don't hide it

No hesitation now she gets up and walks
She thinks of all the pain and pride that they caused
She emptied all the tip jars and won't get back what she lost

Outside the window with two fingers to show
She lifts her head up just to blow out the smoke
She doesn't have to look back to know where she's gotta go

No you don't have to wear your best fake smile
Don't have to stand there and burn inside
Oh oh oh if you don't like it

And you don't have to care so don't pretend
Nobody needs a best fake friend
Oh oh oh don't hide it

If you don't bleed it you don't need it anymore
If you don't need it get up and leave it on the floor
No more believing like it's a voice you can't ignore
If you don't need it you don't need it no

And you don't have to wear your best fake smile
Don't have to stand there and burn inside
Oh oh oh no if you don't like it

And you don't have to care so don't pretend
Nobody needs a best fake friend
Oh oh oh don't hide it

No you don't have to wear your best fake smile
Don't have to stand there and burn inside
Oh oh oh if you don't like it

Oh oh oh no if you don't like it

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James Bay

James Bay (French: Baie James, Cree: Wînipekw) is a large body of water on the southern end of Hudson Bay in Canada. Both bodies of water extend from the Arctic Ocean, of which James Bay is the southernmost part. It borders the provinces of Quebec and Ontario. Islands within the bay (the largest of which is Akimiski Island) are part of the Nunavut territory. Numerous waterways of the James Bay watershed have been modified with dams or diversion for several major hydroelectric projects. These waterways are also destinations for river-based recreation. Several communities are located near or alongside James Bay, including a number of Aboriginal Canadian communities, such as the Kashechewan First Nation and nine communities affiliated with the Cree of northern … more »

2 fans

Written by: Iain Denis Archer, James Michael Bay

Lyrics © CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


14 facts about this song

Genres Classification
"Best Fake Smile" is classified as Indie Pop, Pop Rock, and Soul Music.
Release Date
The song was released on February 29, 2016, from James Bay's debut album "Chaos and the Calm" which was launched in 2015.
Chart Performance
"Best Fake Smile" did remarkably well on the charts. It peaked at number 41 on the UK Singles Chart.
Song Theme
The song is about refusing to pretend to be happy when you’re not. It encourages listeners to be true to themselves and their feelings.
Awards
While "Best Fake Smile" itself did not win any awards, it was part of James Bay's album "Chaos and the Calm" which earned him several nominations and recognitions, including three Grammy nominations in 2016.
Music Video
The music video for "Best Fake Smile" was directed by Emil Nava and was released on March 14, 2016. It features Bay in an urban setting, interacting with various characters who refuse to fake their happiness.
Song Reviews
The song received positive reviews for its raw and heartfelt lyrics, distinct guitar riffs, and Bay's raspy, soulful voice.
Song Participation
James Bay co-wrote the song with critically-acclaimed producer and songwriter, Joel Pott, who was the former lead vocalist and guitarist for British alternative rock band, Athlete.
Live Performances
"Best Fake Smile" was performed by Bay in several high-profile TV music and talk shows such as The Ellen DeGeneres Show and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
Album Success
The album "Chaos and the Calm" which features "Best Fake Smile" went on to become a double-platinum selling record in the UK, especially because of popular songs like "Hold Back The River," "Let It Go," and "Best Fake Smile."
Inspiration
According to several interviews, Bay found inspiration for the song from people he met in the music industry who often put up a façade to seem happy or more likable.
Reception
Despite being a commercial hit, “Best Fake Smile” was also critically acclaimed, with many music critics complimenting Bay’s raw and powerful vocal delivery in the song.
Pop Culture References
In 2017, "Best Fake Smile" was used in an episode of the American television drama series, "The Vampire Diaries."
Musicianship
Bay's ability to mix various genres like indie pop, rock, and soul in "Best Fake Smile" was praised, showcasing his versatility as a musician.

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