The Great Pretender - The Platters
"The Great Pretender" is a classic pop song by the American vocal group The Platters. Released in 1955, the song became a huge hit and is now considered one of the group's signature tunes. The theme of the song revolves around a person who is pretending to be happy and carefree on the outside, but deep down is feeling lonely and heartbroken. The lyrics express the inner turmoil and sadness of someone who is putting on a brave face for the world, despite their true feelings of emptiness and longing. Musically, "The Great Pretender" features smooth and soulful vocals from The Platters, with lead singer Tony Williams delivering a powerful and emotive performance. The song is characterized by its catchy melody, lush harmonies, and poignant lyrics that resonate with listeners of all ages. Notable facts about "The Great Pretender" include its enduring popularity and influence in the music industry. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years and has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials. It is often regarded as a classic example of 1950s doo-wop and R&B music, and continues to be a beloved favorite among fans of oldies music.
The Platters
The Platters were an American vocal group formed in Los Angeles, California in 1952. The group originally consisted of Tony Williams (lead vocals), David Lynch (tenor), Alex Hodge (baritone), Herb Reed (bass), and Paul Robi (baritone). They were one of the most successful vocal groups of the early rock and roll era, known for their smooth harmonies and romantic ballads. The Platters rose to fame in the mid-1950s with hits like "Only You (And You Alone)," "The Great Pretender," "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes," and "My Prayer." These songs helped define the sound of the doo-wop and R&B genres and became enduring classics that have stood the test of time. The group's smooth vocal style and polished performances made them one of the first African American groups to achieve mainstream success in the music industry. They were also one of the first groups to have a female manager, Buck Ram, who guided their career and helped them cross over to white audiences during a time of racial segregation in the United States. The Platters were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990 and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 1998. Their music has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, and their influence can be heard in the work of artists ranging from The Temptations to The Beach Boys. Despite lineup changes and legal battles over the years, The Platters' music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans around the world. Their timeless songs and smooth harmonies have left an indelible mark on the history of popular music, cementing their legacy as one of the greatest vocal groups of all time.