The Tears Of A Clown

by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles

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Lyrics

Now, if there’s a smile up (G)on my face

(G)it’s on ly there try ing to (G)fool the pub lic; (G)but when it comes down to (G)fool ing you,

(G)now hon ey that’s quite a (G)diff ’rent sub ject.

Don’t (D)let my (G)glad ex pres sion

give you the (G)wrong im pres sion; (G)real ly I’m sad,

oh, (G)sad der than sad,

you’re gone and I’m hurt ing so bad,

like a clown, I pre tend to be (D)glad.

Now, there’s some (A)sad things known to man

but ain’t (Bm)too much sad der than the tears of a (D)clown,

when there’s no one a (G)round.

Just (G)like Pag li (C)ac ci did.

I try to (G)keep my (C)sad ness hid,

(D)smil ing in the (G)pub lic eye,

but in my (D)lone ly (G)room I cry the tears of a (D)clown.

The Tears Of A Clown by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles — Easy Piano for Kids

This page shows “The Tears Of A Clown” by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles in our color-coded kid songbook view — every note is colored by pitch (red C, orange D, yellow E, green F, blue G, purple A, pink B) and the lyrics sit directly under each note, so children can sing along while they play. The song is in the key of D at 120 BPM, a slightly more challenging arrangement — practice each phrase slowly first.

Tips for parents & teachers

  • Start at 50% tempo using the BPM control. Speed up only when your child can play through without stopping.
  • Turn on the metronome from the top bar to build steady rhythm.
  • Use the segmented OFF / C / 1 button to toggle note labels on the staff and keys — kids learn note names faster with letters showing.
  • Tap a measure number on the timeline to jump to a specific section for repeat practice.

Frequently asked questions

Is "The Tears Of A Clown" good for a child learning piano?
Yes — this color-coded arrangement is designed for ages 4-12. Each note is colored by pitch so kids match colors to keys, no music reading required. Lyrics sit under every note for sing-along play.
What age can start with "The Tears Of A Clown"?
Children as young as 4 can follow the color-coded notes. By age 6-7 most kids can play through the song themselves with light guidance. Parent help is recommended for the first few sessions.
Do we need a piano teacher to use this?
No — the color-coded format is designed to be self-explanatory. Parents with no music background can supervise. Teachers can also use it as an introductory lesson tool.
Can we print the sheet music?
Yes — tap "Download Sheet Music" above for a free printable PDF with the same color-coded notes that appear on screen.
How many chords does "The Tears Of A Clown" use?
Just 6 chords: A, Bm, C, D, F#, G. Take it one section at a time.
What other Smokey Robinson & The Miracles songs work for kids?
Try "OOO BABY BABY", "YOU'VE REALLY GOT A HOLD ON ME", "THE TRACKS OF MY TEARS". All play with color-coded notes; pick a familiar tune to keep kids engaged.