The Joke

Brandi Carlile

About The Joke

"The Joke" is a song recorded by American singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile. It was released on November 13, 2017, as the lead single off By the Way, I Forgive You, Carlile's sixth album.


Year:
2018
4:39
3,418 
#8

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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 live 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 live 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 live 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

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Brandi Carlile

Brandi Carlile (born June 1, 1981) is an American alternative country and folk rock singer-songwriter. She has released several albums including The Story, Give Up the Ghost and Live at Benaroya Hall with the Seattle Symphony which reached number 14 on the Top Rock Albums chart. more »

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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 Release
The 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 Acclaim
In 2019, "The Joke" won the Grammy Awards for Best American Roots Song and Best American Roots Performance.
Impact
The track has been praised for its lyrics that contain messages of strength and resilience, providing hope and support for those needing it.
Chart Performance
The song also had chart success, peaking at number 4 on the Billboard Adult Alternative Songs chart.
Music Video
The 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 Interpretation
The track particularly dedicates its verses to children, immigrants, and women rising beyond societal expectations.
Collaborators
The album, which includes the song, was produced by Dave Cobb and Shooter Jennings.
Live Performances
Brandi 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 Inspiration
In 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.

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