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Megan Cao

Review: "Clown Song" - Gabrielle Manna


Clown Song by Gabrielle Manna Cover Art

Gabrielle Manna's second single, "Clown Song," delivers a unique blend of contemporary pop-rock with splashes of 70s singer-songwriter vibes, creating an intricate tapestry of humor and heartache. In this clever and witty track, Manna crafts a narrative that navigates the duality of light-hearted jest and profound vulnerability, a hallmark of her artistry. The song stands as a testament to Manna's ability to use dry humor as a vehicle for processing trauma, presenting a facade of jest that masks a deeper, darker meaning beneath. Manna's history as a comedic writer and actress shines through, adding a layer of performative nuance to the song's narrative.



The lyrics of "Clown Song" are a brilliant exercise in tongue-in-cheek storytelling, echoing the style of Phoebe Bridgers. On the surface, Manna pokes fun at a past lover, depicting them as a sad clown—a metaphor-laden with irony and sardonic wit. Inspired by the classic opera "Pagliacci," the song captures the moment of witnessing a loved one drunkenly sobbing during the performance, an image that is both humorous and heartbreaking. The clever lyricism transforms this moment into a broader critique of past abusers, blending laughs with a poignant confession. Musically, "Clown Song" mirrors the thematic complexity of its lyrics. The contemporary pop-rock sound is enriched by 70s singer-songwriter influences, creating a sonic landscape that is both nostalgic and fresh. The track's upbeat instrumental arrangement contrasts beautifully with its bittersweet lyrics, enhancing the song's dual nature. Manna's vocal delivery is impeccable—light and playful at times, yet capable of descending into deeper emotional territory. This juxtaposition highlights the universal theme of using humor as a coping mechanism, making the song relatable and emotionally resonant.


Gabrielle Manna, better known as Gabby, is a dynamic actress and singer-songwriter whose artistic journey began at the tender age of eight when she was cast as the Cheshire Cat in her elementary school production of Alice in Wonderland. This early introduction to the stage set the course for a life steeped in creative expression. Her music is rich with storytelling and characterized by sharp, biting witticisms. Connecticut-raised and now Brooklyn-based, Gabby is a Leo sun, Cancer moon, and Aquarius rising, traits that undoubtedly influence her vibrant and emotionally complex artistry. "Clown Song" exemplifies this interplay, marking Manna as an artist unafraid to delve into her personal experiences and emerge with a sound that is as engaging as it is introspective. Through her music, Gabrielle Manna continues to assert her place in the contemporary pop-rock scene, using her distinctive voice to turn pain into art.



Written By Megan Cao



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