Styx

Lyrics

11 ContributorsThe Grand Illusion LyricsWelcome to the Grand illusion
Come on in and see what's happening
Pay the price, get your tickets for the show
The stage is set, the band starts playing
Suddenly your heart is pounding
Wishing secretly you were a star

But don't be fooled by the radio
The TV or the magazines
They show you photographs of how your life should be
But they're just someone else's fantasy

So if you think your life is complete confusion
Because you never win the game
Just remember that it's a Grand illusion
'Cause deep inside we're all the same
We're all the same...

So if you think your life is complete confusion
Because your neighbors got it made
Just remember that it's a Grand illusion
And deep inside we're all the same

America spells competition
Join us in our blind ambition
Get yourself a brand new motor car
Someday soon we'll stop to ponder
What on Earth's this spell we're under
We made the grade and still we wonder
Who the hell we areSee Styx LiveGet tickets as low as $42You might also likeEmbed

When it comes to iconic rock bands of the 1970s, Styx is a name that quickly comes to mind. Known for their eclectic sound and theatrical performances, Styx quickly rose to fame with hits such as “Come Sail Away” and “Renegade”. Yet, one of their most iconic songs to date is “The Grand Illusion”. Written by the band's lead singer and keyboardist, Dennis DeYoung, this song has captured the hearts and minds of rock fans around the world.

About The Grand Illusion

The Grand Illusion was released on Styx’s seventh studio album of the same name in 1977. The album proved to be a massive success, debuting at number six on the Billboard 200 chart and becoming the band’s first multi-platinum record. The album achieved critical and commercial success and is still considered to be one of the band’s most important works to date.

The song itself is a powerful blend of progressive and hard rock, with lyrics that are both introspective and socially relevant. It takes on the idea of the “grand illusion,” which is the belief that the world we live in is perfect and that everything is under control. The song encourages listeners to question this concept and to realize that it is false and misleading. The lyrics remind us that we only truly know what we experience ourselves, and that we should always be open to questioning and exploring life’s mysteries.

The guitar work on the track is also notable, with guitarists James Young and Tommy Shaw trading licks throughout the song. The keyboard and synthesizer work by DeYoung is also exceptional and adds an additional layer of complexity to the song’s overall sound.

The Grand Illusion is also notable for its use of harmonies and vocal layering. The song’s chorus is particularly powerful, with DeYoung’s lead vocals being backed up by the rest of the band. The result is a majestic and awe-inspiring sound that is still captivating listeners today.

Another interesting fact about The Grand Illusion is that it is still regularly played on classic rock stations and has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows, including Freaks and Geeks and That '70s Show.

All in all, The Grand Illusion is a powerful and thought-provoking song that showcases the immense talent of Styx and their ability to blend different musical genres into something truly special. Its powerful lyrics and epic sound have been captivating audiences for over 40 years and show no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

• Release Date: July 7, 1977
• Artist: Styx