The Meaning Behind The Song: This Masquerade by George Benson
George Benson’s hit single “This Masquerade” became an instant classic upon its release in 1976. Written by Leon Russell, the song’s lyrics paint a picture of a person who is hiding behind a mask to conceal their true emotions. In this article, we’ll explore the deeper meaning behind the lyrics and how it resonated with audiences back then as well as today.
Table of Contents
The Story of “This Masquerade”
Leon Russell, a pianist and singer-songwriter, first recorded “This Masquerade” in 1972 for his self-titled album. Benson later heard the song and decided to record a cover version for his album “Breezin’”. The song became a chart-topping success and earned Benson a Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1977.
The Lyrics: A Closer Look
The lyrics of “This Masquerade” tell a story of someone who is hiding their true feelings behind a façade. The song suggests that we all put on masks in public, hiding the truth about our inner selves and the emotions we feel.
For example, in the first verse, Benson sings, “Are we really happy here with this lonely game we play?” He is suggesting that we pretend to be happy when we are really feeling lonely or sad. Later he adds, “We’re lost in this masquerade / Both afraid to say we’re just too far away from being close together from the start.”
The song’s message is that we all wear masks in one way or another to protect ourselves from getting hurt. We hide our true feelings from others, afraid of being judged or rejected. But in doing so, we also miss out on real human connections.
The Impact of “This Masquerade”
Upon its release, “This Masquerade” quickly became a hit, climbing to the top of the charts. Audiences related to the song’s message of hiding one’s true self to fit in with societal expectations.
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Benson himself said, “People are wearing masks all the time, in order to fit into society, in order to fit into whatever job they happen to be on.”
The song’s message is still resonating with audiences today. In 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused people to wear masks in public settings for protection. This has led to conversations about the impact of wearing a mask on our mental and emotional well-being, and whether it’s taking a toll on our connections with others.
Conclusion
“This Masquerade” is a song that invites us to reflect on our true selves and how we show up in the world. It reminds us that we all wear masks in one way or another, but that hiding our true selves can ultimately lead to a feeling of loneliness and disconnection.
George Benson’s cover of Leon Russell’s song became an iconic hit and is still relevant today. It has captured the attention of audiences worldwide and serves as a reminder that we must embrace our own true selves and connect with others for the sake of our well-being.
