Carly Simon

Introduction

“You’re So Vain” by Carly Simon is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its allure and mystery. Released in 1972, the song is a masterful blend of Carly Simon’s sultry vocals and evocative songwriting. The enigmatic lyrics have sparked countless discussions, making it one of the most iconic songs in the singer-songwriter genre. Join us as we unravel the intrigue behind “You’re So Vain” and explore the enduring fascination with Carly Simon’s musical gem.

Did You Know?

• “You’re So Vain” features backing vocals by none other than Mick Jagger, adding an extra layer of rock and roll royalty to the song.
• The lyrics are widely believed to be about an unnamed, conceited lover, fueling speculation and intrigue in the decades since its release.
• The song topped the charts in multiple countries, solidifying Carly Simon’s status as a musical force in the early ’70s.
• Carly Simon has kept the identity of the subject a secret, adding an element of mystery that has contributed to the song’s enduring popularity.

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Lyrics: You’re So Vain

Son of a gun.

You walked into the party like you were walking onto a yacht
Your hat strategically dipped below one eye
Your scarf it was apricot

You had one eye in the mirror as you watched yourself gavotte
And all the girls dreamed that they’d be your partner
They’d be your partner, and…

You’re so vain, you probably think this song is about you
You’re so vain, I’ll bet you think this song is about you
Don’t you? Don’t you?

You had me several years ago when I was still quite naive
When you said that we made such a pretty pair
And that you would never leave

But you gave away the things you loved and one of them was me
I had some dreams, they were clouds in my coffee
Clouds in my coffee, and…

You’re so vain, you probably think this song is about you
You’re so vain, I’ll bet you think this song is about you
Don’t you? Don’t you? Don’t you?

I had some dreams they were clouds in my coffee
Clouds in my coffee, and…

You’re so vain, you probably think this song is about you
You’re so vain, I’ll bet you think this song is about you
Don’t you? Don’t you?

Well I hear you went up to Saratoga and your horse naturally won
Then you flew your Lear jet up to Nova Scotia
To see the total eclipse of the sun

Well you’re where you should be all the time
And when you’re not you’re with some underworld spy
Or the wife of a close friend, wife of a close friend, and…

You’re so vain, you probably think this song is about you
You’re so vain, I’ll bet you think this song is about you
Don’t you? Don’t you? Don’t you?

You’re so vain, you probably think this song is about you
You’re so vain, you probably think this song is about you
You’re so vain, bet you think this song is about you