About the song
Carly Simon, a renowned singer-songwriter known for her introspective lyrics and powerful voice, penned “You’re So Vain” as a witty and provocative song that has captivated audiences for decades. This catchy and upbeat track, released in 1972, became a hit single and a defining song for Simon’s iconic career.
With her distinctive vocal style and biting lyrics, Simon explores the themes of vanity, egotism, and the complexities of relationships. Through clever wordplay and Simon’s emotive delivery, listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences and emotions.
The opening lines, “You’re so vain, you probably think this song is about you,” immediately establish the song’s subject and set a playful yet challenging tone. The lyrics continue to reference the man’s arrogance, self-absorption, and his tendency to take credit for other people’s achievements. Simon’s biting wit and clever wordplay make the song both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Throughout the song, Simon’s vocals and the song’s infectious melody create a captivating and immersive listening experience. The song’s playful yet biting tone makes it easy to sing along to and enjoy, while also sparking discussion and debate.
“You’re So Vain” is more than just a popular song; it is a cultural touchstone that has influenced countless artists and generations of music fans. The song’s clever lyrics and Simon’s powerful performance continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a timeless and enduring piece of music history.
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Lyrics
Son of a gun
You walked into the party like you were walking onto a yacht
Your hat strategically dipped below one eye
Your scarf it was apricot
You had one eye in the mirror, as you watched yourself gavotte
And all the girls dreamed that they’d be your partner
They’d be your partner and
You’re so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You’re so vain (you’re so vain)
I bet you think this song is about you
Don’t you, don’t you?
You had me several years ago when I was still quite naive
Well you said that we made such a pretty pair and that you would never leave
But you gave away the things you loved
And one of them was me
I had some dreams they were clouds in my coffee, clouds in my coffee and
You’re so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You’re so vain, you’re so vain
I bet you think this song is about you
Don’t you don’t you, don’t you?
I had some dreams they were clouds in my coffee, clouds in my coffee and
You’re so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You’re so vain (you’re so vain)
I bet you think this song is about you
Don’t you don’t you
Well I hear you went up to Saratoga
And your horse naturally won
Then you flew your lear jet up to Nova Scotia
To see the total eclipse of the sun
Well you’re where you should be all the time
And when you’re not, you’re with some underworld spy
Or the wife of a close friend, wife of a close friend and
You’re so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You’re so vain (so vain)
I bet you think this song is about you
Don’t you don’t you, don’t you, don’t you now
You’re so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You’re so vain
Probably think this song about you
You’re so vain