Behind A Painted Smile
The Isley Brothers · Other Songs - The Isley Brothers
Behind a painted smile
You can't imagine the tears and sorrow
Behind a painted smile
My life's a masquerade
A world of let's pretend, yeah
Since you took your love
Pretending never ends, yeah
But I can't let you know
That I still need you so, no
(Darling I hide the tears that I cry)
Whenever you're near I hide my tears
Behind a painted smile
You can't imagine the tears and sorrow
Behind a painted smile
I can't let you see
All the tears I'm crying
You would pity me
That would be like dying
If I can't have your love
I don't need your sympathy
(Darling I hide the tears that I cry)
Whenever you're near I hide my tears
Behind a painted smile
You can't imagine the tears and sorrow
Behind a painted smile
My life is a masquerade
Since you took your love away
I just can't let you see
How much you hurting me
Whenever you're near I hide my tears
Behind a painted smile
Behind A Painted Smile
The Isley Brothers' "Behind A Painted Smile" stands as a quintessential example of their mid-to-late 1970s soul and R&B output. Recorded during a period when the group was transitioning from their earlier funk and disco influences toward a more polished, orchestral soul sound, the track showcases the signature Isley vocal harmonies and lush production that defined their catalogue. The song reflects the era's focus on romantic themes and emotional depth, delivered with the group's characteristic blend of smooth vocals and rhythmic precision. As a standalone recording, it captures the warmth and sophistication of their work, serving as a testament to their enduring influence on the soul genre and their ability to craft memorable, melodic recordings that resonated with audiences across the United States.