About the song
Conway Twitty Takes on Emotional Manipulation: “Games People Play”
Country music legend Conway Twitty wasn’t afraid to delve into the complexities of human relationships. In his 1969 hit, “Games People Play,” he tackles the all-too-common theme of emotional manipulation and its devastating impact.
A Song About Deception and Heartbreak
“Games People Play” is a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of playing emotional games. The lyrics, penned by singer-songwriter Joe South, paint a picture of individuals who withhold their true feelings, leaving their partners confused and heartbroken. Phrases like “never meanin’ what they say, never sayin’ what they mean” perfectly capture the essence of manipulative behavior.
Twitty’s Powerful Delivery
Twitty’s signature baritone voice takes center stage in this song. He delivers the lyrics with a mix of sadness and frustration, perfectly conveying the pain inflicted by emotional games. The song’s melody, though catchy, carries a melancholic undertone that reflects the emotional turmoil of the narrative.
A Timeless Message
“Games People Play” transcends its time period. The issue of emotional manipulation remains a relevant theme in today’s world. The song serves as a warning to those caught in such a dynamic, reminding listeners of the importance of honesty and genuine communication in relationships.
A Classic Country Ballad
With its relatable lyrics, powerful vocals, and timeless message, “Games People Play” has secured its place as a classic country ballad. It continues to resonate with listeners who have experienced the sting of emotional manipulation, offering a sense of validation and a reminder that true connection thrives on honesty and open communication.
Video
Lyrics
“Games People Play”
Oh, the games people now
Every night and every day now
Never meanin’ what they say now
Never sayin’ what they mean.So they wile away the hours in their ivory towers
Till they’re covered up with flowers
In the back of a black limousineLotten da la da da da
Lotten da la a dee de dee
Talkin’ 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 one’s to blame.But neither one will ever give in
So we gaze at an eight by ten
Thinkin’ ’bout the things that might have been
And it’s a dirty rotten shameLotten da la da da da
Lotten da la a dee de dee
Talkin’ bout you and me
And the games people play.People walkin’ up to ya singing glory hallelujah
And they’re tryin’ to sock it to ya in the name of the Lord
They’re gonna teach you how to meditate
Read your horoscope and cheat your fate
And furthermore to hell with hate
Come on and get on board.Lotten da la da da da
Lotten da la a dee de dee
Talkin’ bout you and me
And the games people play.Look around and tell me what you see
What’s happened to you and me
God grand me the serenity to just remember who I am
‘Cause you’ve given up your sanity
For your pride and your vanity
Turn your back on humanity
And you don’t give a lot.Lotten da la da da da
Lotten da la a dee de dee
Talkin’ bout you and me
And the games people play…