The Show Must Go On Lyrics – The Wall – Pink Floyd

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The Show Must Go On Lyrics (Waters) 1:36

Ooooh, Ma, Oooh Pa
Must the show go on?
Ooooh, Pa. Take me home
Ooooh, Ma. Let me go

There must be some mistake
I didnt mean to let them
Take away my soul.
Am I too old, is it too late?

Ooooh, Ma, Ooooh Pa,
Where has the feeling gone?
Ooooh, Ma, Ooooh Pa,
Will I remember the songs?
The show must go on.

The epic rock opera The Wall is one of Pink Floyd’s most popular albums and had great commercial success.

  1. In the Flesh?
  2. The Thin Ice
  3. Another Brick in the Wall Part 1
  4. The Happiest Days of our Lives
  5. Another Brick in the Wall Part 2
  6. Mother
  7. Goodbye Blue Sky
  8. Empty Spaces
  9. Young Lust
  10. One of My Turns
  11. Don’t Leave Me Now
  12. Another Brick in the Wall Part 3
  13. Goodbye Cruel World
  14. Hey You
  15. Is There Anybody Out There?
  16. Nobody Home
  17. Vera
  18. Bring the Boys Back Home
  19. Comfortably Numb
  20. The Show Must Go On
  21. In The Flesh
  22. Run Like Hell
  23. Waiting for the Worms
  24. Stop
  25. The Trial
  26. Outside the Wall

“The Show Must Go On” – An In-Depth Look

1. Introduction to “The Show Must Go On” “The Show Must Go On” appears near the end of Pink Floyd’s 1979 album “The Wall.” This track stands out for its reflective and somewhat somber tone, contrasting with the more intense and darker themes of the preceding songs. It plays a key role in the narrative arc of the album, representing a moment of self-awareness and contemplation for the protagonist, Pink.

2. Lyrical Exploration The lyrics of “The Show Must Go On” convey a sense of resignation and internal conflict. Pink questions his ability to continue living behind the emotional wall he has constructed. This moment of introspection is critical, as it reflects his growing awareness of the isolation and disconnection his ‘wall’ has created. The lyrics, “There must be some mistake, I didn’t mean to let them take away my soul,” express Pink’s regret and his desire to reclaim his lost self.

3. Musical Composition Musically, “The Show Must Go On” is characterized by its melodic and harmonious arrangement. The song features a blend of acoustic and electric guitars, creating a more introspective atmosphere. The backing vocals, which play a prominent role in the track, add to the sense of questioning and uncertainty. The music aligns with the song’s introspective nature, offering a brief respite from the album’s otherwise intense narrative.

4. Role in “The Wall” In the context of “The Wall,” “The Show Must Go On” serves as a moment of clarity and doubt for Pink. It marks the beginning of the end of his psychological journey, leading into the climactic events of the album’s finale. The song underscores the themes of self-imposed isolation and the consequences of living in a self-made emotional fortress.

5. Legacy and Interpretation “The Show Must Go On” has been praised for its emotional depth and its place in the narrative structure of “The Wall.” It’s a track that resonates with listeners for its exploration of the human tendency to retreat inwards and the realization that such withdrawal comes at a cost. The song, like much of the album, is a reflection on the human condition and the struggle for self-awareness and connection.


Overall, “The Show Must Go On” is a crucial component of Pink Floyd’s “The Wall,” offering a poignant reflection on the themes of isolation and the desire for redemption. Its introspective nature and thoughtful lyrics contribute significantly to the album’s narrative, making it a memorable and impactful piece in the band’s extensive catalog.

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