About the song
“Games People Play” is a profound and timeless song written, composed, and performed by the talented American singer-songwriter Joe South. Released in August 1968, this track quickly captured the attention of listeners with its powerful message and unique sound. By January 1969, “Games People Play” had successfully entered the Billboard Hot 100, marking the beginning of its journey to becoming one of the most iconic songs of its time. The song’s success was further solidified when it won two prestigious Grammy Awards in 1970: Best Contemporary Song and Song of the Year.
At its core, “Games People Play” is a protest song, one that resonates deeply with those who are attuned to the social and interpersonal issues of its time—and even today. The lyrics serve as a poignant critique of the various forms of hatred, hypocrisy, inhumanity, intolerance, and irresponsibility that pervade human interactions. Through its words, South sheds light on the darker aspects of society, challenging listeners to reflect on their behavior and the broader social norms that allow such negativity to persist.
The song was featured on Joe South’s debut album, *Introspect*, and also released as a single, where it achieved notable success. It reached No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States, proving its widespread appeal. The track also found success across the Atlantic, peaking at No. 6 in the United Kingdom and No. 4 in Ireland in 1969. The recognition from the Grammy Awards, where it won both Best Contemporary Song and Song of the Year, further cemented its place in music history.
One of the song’s most distinctive features is the opening guitar riff, played on a Danelectro electric sitar. This unique sound sets the tone for the song, adding an intriguing layer to its already impactful lyrics. The sitar’s presence is not just an auditory treat; it visually stands out in the video recorded to support South’s album *Introspect*, highlighting the innovative approach he took in creating this memorable track.
Interestingly, “Games People Play” also inspired other artists, leading to a notable country rendition by Freddy Weller, guitarist for Paul Revere and the Raiders. Released in 1969 as Weller’s debut single, his version of the song became a significant hit on the Country Chart, spending two weeks at No. 2.
In conclusion, “Games People Play” is more than just a song; it is a cultural statement, a call to action, and a reflection of the societal issues that continue to resonate with audiences today. Joe South’s ability to combine meaningful lyrics with a unique musical arrangement has ensured that this song remains a significant part of the American musical landscape.
Video
Lyrics
Hmm la-da da da da da da da
La-da da da da da de
La-da da da da da da da
La-da da da da da da da
Oh the games people play now
Every night and every day now
Never meaning what they say now
Never saying what they mean
And they wile away the hours
In their ivory towers
Till they’re covered up with flowers
In the back of a black limousine whoa
La-da da da da da da da
La-da da da da da de
Talking ’bout you and me
And the games people play
Oh we make one another cry
Break a heart then we say goodbye
Cross our hearts and we hope to die
That the other was to blame whoa
Neither one will give in
So we gaze at our eight by ten
Thinking ’bout the things that might have been
And it’s a dirty rotten shame whoa
La-da da da da da da da
La-da da da da da de
Talking ’bout you and me
And the games people play now
Oh yeah
All right
Oh yeah
Come on
Oh
Come again
People walking up to ya
Singing glory Hallelujah
And they’re tryin’ to sock it to you
In the name of the Lord
They’re gonna teach you how to meditate
Read your horoscope, cheat your fate
And further more to hell with hate
Come on and get on board whoah
La-da da da da da da da
La-da da da da da de
Talking ’bout you and me
And the games people play
Now wait a minute
Look around tell me what you see
What’s happening to you and me
God grant me the serenity
To just remember who I am whoah
‘Cause you’ve given up your sanity
For your pride and your vanity
Turn your back on humanity
Oh and you don’t give a da da da da da
La-da da da da da da da
La-da da da da da de
I keep talking ’bout you and me baby
And the games people play now lala
La-da da da da da da da
La-da da da da da de
I keep talking ’bout you and me
Oh and the games people play
I wonder can you come now, play
Talking ’bout you and me oh
And the games people play now