Happy-Sounding Sad Songs – Funk Radio #112

Today we share some mixed emotions about upbeat songs that have surprisingly sad lyrics.

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Sometimes we’re happy. Sometimes we’re sad. And often still, we’ find ourselves in this weird middle space that’s neither one nor the other. We’re complicated like that—and it turns out some songs are that way too. In this week’s episode we give you just a few examples of songs that sound happy and upbeat, but have lyrics that can be sad or depressing when you pay attention to them. Do musicians and songwriters make this choice to represent some kind of emotional juxtaposition, or just because upbeat songs are an easier sell? Find out the answers on the magical journey that is Funk Radio.

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Honorable Mentions:

“Sad Mood” by Sam Cooke

“The Love I Lost” by Harold Melvin & the Bluenotes

“Assembly Line” by the Commodores

“Mmmbop” by Hanson

“(Love is Just) the Game” by Peter Brown