About The Song
Rod Stewart's "I Was Only Joking" is a poignant and introspective track that showcases the singer's ability to blend rock and folk elements with storytelling lyrics. Released as part of his 1977 album "Foot Loose & Fancy Free," the song reflects Stewart's knack for crafting narratives that resonate with universal themes of love, regret, and the complexities of relationships.
The lyrics of "I Was Only Joking" delve into the bittersweet aspects of life, exploring the consequences of actions and the passage of time. Stewart weaves a tale of romantic missteps, capturing the essence of hindsight and the acknowledgment of one's mistakes. The poignant line "I was only joking, my dear, looking for a way to hide my fear" encapsulates the song's emotional depth, revealing a vulnerability beneath Stewart's charismatic rock persona.
Musically, "I Was Only Joking" is characterized by its dynamic arrangement, featuring Stewart's raspy vocals complemented by a melodic interplay of guitars and keyboards. The song seamlessly transitions between reflective, acoustic moments and more energetic, rock-driven passages, creating a sonic journey that mirrors the emotional highs and lows expressed in the lyrics.
As with many of Stewart's compositions, "I Was Only Joking" resonated with a broad audience due to its relatable themes and the singer's distinctive storytelling style. The song's enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a range of emotions, from nostalgia to introspection, making it a timeless piece in Rod Stewart's extensive repertoire. Over the years, the track has become a staple in his live performances, further cementing its status as a classic in the singer's catalog.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
Ever since I was a kid in school
I messed around with all the rules
Apologized, then realized
I'm not different after all
Me and the boys thought we had it sussed
Valentinos all of us
My dad said we looked ridiculous
But, boy, we broke some hearts
In and out of jobs, running free
Waging war with society
Dumb, blank faces stared back at me
But nothing ever changed
Promises made in the heat of night
Creepin' home before it got too light
I wasted all that precious time
And blamed it on the wine
I was only joking, my dear
Looking for a way to hide my fear
What kind of fool was I?
I could never win
Never found a compromise
Collected lovers like butterflies
Illusions of that grand first prize
Are slowly wearin' thin
Susie, baby, you were good to me
Giving love unselfishly
But you took it all too seriously
I guess it had to end
I was only joking, my dear
Looking for a way to hide my fear
What kind of fool was I?
I could never win
Yeah, baby, woo
Now you ask me if I'm sincere
That's the question that I always fear
Verse seven is never clear
But I'll tell you what you want to hear
I try to give you all you want
But giving love is not my strongest point
If that's the case, it's pointless going on
I'd rather be alone
'Cause what I'm doing must be wrong
Pouring my heart out in a song
Owning up for prosperity
For the whole damn world to see
Quietly now while I turn a page
Act one is over without costume change
The principal would like to leave the stage
The crowd don't understand