Laughing Boy
Daryl Hall · Other Songs - Daryl Hall
Laughin' Boy, don't it make you want to cry?
You know, I can't imagine you were the magic boy so long ago.
Your life and dreams are broken, you hate the world but you can't
Live alone.
Ain't that fine?
I'm your friend that knows you, and I'd like to tell you
That I think your laugh's a lie.
Laughin' Boy, that's you layin' in the meadow.
Laughin' Boy, memories ought to make you cry.
Don't let your mind surrender, 'cause I can't imagine days without
You; no one wants to be without you.
You'll find a way to help you play on.
You won't pass the time alone.
I'm your friend that knows you, and I'd like to tell you
That I think your laugh's a lie.
Laughing Boy
Daryl Hall's "Laughing Boy" stands as a quintessential example of the smooth, soulful R&B and pop sound he helped define during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Recorded in the classic Hall & Oates era, the track showcases his signature warm vocal delivery and melodic sensibility, blending romantic themes with a polished production style that became a hallmark of his discography. The song reflects the era's emphasis on polished, radio-friendly ballads that prioritized emotional resonance and catchy hooks over complex arrangements. As a key component of his broader body of work, "Laughing Boy" exemplifies the collaborative spirit and musical craftsmanship that established him as a leading figure in contemporary American music, influencing countless subsequent artists in the soft rock and adult contemporary genres.