The Great Pretender: A Timeless Classic by The Platters
When you think of The Platters, one song that undoubtedly comes to mind is “The Great Pretender”. Released in November 1955 with Tony Williams delivering a memorable lead vocal performance, this song quickly captured the hearts of listeners. It wasn’t just a fleeting success; it became a defining moment in music history. Written by Buck Ram, who was not only the manager and producer of The Platters but also an accomplished songwriter, the song exemplifies the seamless blend of heartfelt lyrics and captivating melodies.
The inception of “The Great Pretender” is as fascinating as the song itself. Buck Ram claimed to have penned the song in just about 20 minutes, finding inspiration in an unlikely place: the washroom of the Flamingo Hotel. Ram, ever the confident promoter, had boasted to Bob Shad about having a song that could surpass the success of their previous hit, “Only You (And You Alone)”. Under pressure, Ram conjured up the title “The Great Pretender” on the spot, and remarkably, he was right about its potential.
The recording features a soulful tenor saxophone played by Plas Johnson, adding an extra layer of depth to the already rich vocals of Tony Williams. Upon its release, the song quickly soared to the top of the charts, reaching No. 1 on Billboard’s Top 100 and securing the No. 5 spot on the UK charts. By January 1956, it had become the best-selling R&B song and continued to dominate by reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Top 100 in February of the same year. Its enduring appeal was further cemented as it became the 12th best-selling single of 1956.
“The Great Pretender” wasn’t just a commercial success; it also made its mark in popular culture. The Platters performed this iconic tune, along with “Only You”, in the 1956 musical film Rock Around the Clock. The song also found its way into the film American Graffiti, showcasing its lasting influence across different media.
The song’s legacy continued to grow over the decades. In 2002, “The Great Pretender” was honored with induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame, solidifying its status as a timeless classic. Rolling Stone magazine further acknowledged its significance by ranking it 360th in their list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time in 2004.
What makes “The Great Pretender” truly remarkable is its ability to transcend time and genre. Its poignant lyrics, coupled with the smooth, emotive delivery of Tony Williams, strike a chord with listeners even today. The song has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their own unique touch to it. Among these covers, Freddie Mercury’s rendition stands out, reaching No. 4 on the UK charts and introducing the song to a whole new generation of fans. Moreover, it’s believed that Sam Cooke’s cover inspired Chrissie Hynde to name her band The Pretenders, highlighting the song’s influential reach.
“The Great Pretender” is more than just a song; it’s a piece of musical heritage that continues to resonate with audiences. Its blend of poignant storytelling and melodic brilliance ensures that it remains a beloved classic, reminding us all of the beauty and depth that music can achieve.