The Joke Lyrics – Brandi Carlile
The Joke Lyrics
[Verse 1: Brandi Carlile]
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
[Chorus: Brandi Carlile]
Let 'em laugh 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
[Verse 2: Brandi Carlile]
You get discouraged, don't you, girl?
It's your brother's world for a while longer
You 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
[Chorus: Brandi Carlile]
Let 'em laugh 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 laugh 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
The Joke Lyrics Meaning
The lyrics of "The Joke" by Brandi Carlile, speaks to the experience of individuals who may feel marginalized, misunderstood, or underestimated by society. It offers a message of empowerment, urging listeners to maintain their authenticity and resilience in the face of adversity. Through vivid imagery and emotive storytelling, the lyrics celebrate the strength found in quiet confidence and the ability to rise above the judgments of others.
[Verse 1]
In this verse, Carlile addresses a person who may be feeling anxious or insecure. She acknowledges their unique qualities, such as a quiet demeanor and impeccable style, while encouraging them not to allow others to diminish their happiness or suppress their gentle nature. The imagery of "kick[ing] dirt in your face" and "Dress[ing] you down" portrays the hostility and criticism that this person may face for daring to be different or shining brightly. Despite the attempts to undermine them, Carlile sees through their struggles, recognizing the pain they hide behind a facade of composure.
[Chorus]
The chorus amplifies the message of resilience and defiance in the face of adversity. Carlile urges the listener to let others laugh and criticize, emphasizing that their opinions hold no power over one's inherent worth or ultimate destiny. Drawing from the metaphor of a movie, she suggests that she has witnessed similar narratives unfold and knows that ultimately, those who seek to diminish others will be the ones left looking foolish.
[Verse 2]
In the second verse, Carlile shifts her focus to a female protagonist who faces her own set of challenges within a patriarchal society. She acknowledges the feeling of discouragement that may arise when navigating a world that often favors male privilege. The metaphor of "dancing with the devil on a river" symbolizes the struggle and sacrifice required to overcome systemic barriers and achieve one's dreams. Despite the obstacles, Carlile celebrates the resilience of the woman, who carries her burdens with strength and determination.
[Popular Phrases]
1. "Let 'em laugh while they can" - Encourages disregarding the mockery of others and remaining steadfast in one's authenticity.
2. "I have been to the movies, I've seen how it ends, And the joke's on them" - Reflects the speaker's awareness of the ultimate futility of those who seek to undermine or belittle others, suggesting that their actions will ultimately backfire.
This is the end of "The Joke Song Lyrics" by Brandi Carlile. If you discover any mistake in the song text, please send the correct lyrics by using the Contact Us form.
Official Music Video
Cast & Crew
- Album
- Brandi Carlile (Singles)
- Artist / Band
- Producer(s)
- Shooter Jennings & Dave Cobb
- Writter(s)
- Tim Hanseroth, Phil Hanseroth, Dave Cobb & Brandi Carlile
- Released On
- November 13, 2017
Brandi Carlile (Singles) Songs
- 1.Broken Horses
- 2.Every Time I Hear That Song
- 3.Hold Out Your Hand
- 4.Right on Time
- 5.Sugartooth
- 6.The Eye
- 7.The Joke
- 8.The Mother
- 9.The Story
- 10.You and Me On The Rock
Brandi Carlile Albums
FAQs & Knowledge
Who is the singer of "The Joke" song?
"The Joke" song is sung by Brandi Carlile.
Who is the lyrics writer of "The Joke" song?
"The Joke" song lyrics written by Tim Hanseroth, Phil Hanseroth, Dave Cobb & Brandi Carlile.
Who is the music producer of "The Joke" song?
"The Joke" song music composed & produced by Shooter Jennings & Dave Cobb.
When was "The Joke" song released?
"The Joke" song was released on November 13, 2017.