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Tears for Fears — Mad World
Album: The Hurting
Avg rating:
7.2

Your rating:
Total ratings: 570









Released: 1983
Length: 3:33
Plays (last 30 days): 0
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All around me are familiar faces
Worn-out places, worn-out faces
Bright and early for their daily oasis
Going nowhere, going nowhere
Their tears are filling up their glasses
No expression, no expression
Hide my head, I want to drown my sorrow
No tomorrow, no tomorrow

And I find it kind of funny
I find it kind of sad
The dreams in which I'm dying are the best I've ever had
I find it hard to tell you
'Cause I find it hard to take
When people run in circles it's a very, very
Mad world
Mad world
Mad world
Mad world

Children waiting for the day they feel good
Happy birthday, happy birthday
To feel the way that every child should
Sit and listen, sit and listen
Went to school and I was very nervous
No one knew me, no one knew me
Hello, teacher, tell me, what's my lesson?
Look right through me, look right through me

And I find it kind of funny
I find it kind of sad
The dreams in which I'm dying are the best I've ever had
I find it hard to tell you
'Cause I find it hard to take
When people run in circles it's a very, very
Mad world
Mad world
Mad world
Mad world

And I find it kind of funny
I find it kind of sad
The dreams in which I'm dying are the best I've ever had
I find it hard to tell you
'Cause I find it hard to take
When people run in circles it's a very, very
Mad world
Mad world
Halargian world
Mad world
Comments (119)add comment
This hasn't been played in a while BillG...
Posted 3 years ago by jlind    [ Reply ]
 ShamanManu wrote:
Just heard that Donnie Darko cover and wished to hear the original..... {#Pray}

 
Likewise. I'm listening to the Gary Jules cover right now. Nice, but it doesn't compare to the original TfF version. Which, by the way, hasn't been played on RP since 2007.
 
Posted 11 years ago by Piscador    [ Reply ]
Just heard that Donnie Darko cover and wished to hear the original..... {#Pray}
Posted 11 years ago by ShamanManu    [ Reply ]

This song is amazing. So amazing that I made a 2012 cover featuring a female vocalist. Check it out, I'm giving it away as a free download: https://paulloeb.net/madworld


Posted 12 years ago by paulloebmusic    [ Reply ]
Mad World Michael Andrews (Artist), Gary Jules (Artist) Product Description This record was first heard on the 2002 soundtrack 'Donnie Darko' & this release has been much awaited since then. Roland Orzabel who wrote 'Mad World' & had a hit with it in 'Tears For Fears' has said that this version is much better then the original. The vocals by Gary Jules compliment the haunting piano riffs beautifully & proves why it is a clear favorite on the soundtrack. Tracks, 'Mad World' (non-LP Frayed Out Mix), 'The Artifact & Living', & 'Mad World' (non-LP Video). Sanctuary. 2003. From Amazon.com
The Gary Jules version (not the above single) is listed on RP too - (click here).
Posted 17 years ago by Steven_G    [ Reply ]
Finally, I've heard the Jules version a lot on here lately, it's nice to hear the original, I like both, but maybe the Jules version just a tad bit more....
Posted 17 years ago by SpaceCase    [ Reply ]
Kagin wrote:
MUCH prefer Gary Jules' version!
Says it all.
Posted 17 years ago by Wolf825    [ Reply ]
67nj wrote:
LOL!!! hilarious!
Posted 17 years ago by sixxstrings    [ Reply ]
savvysearch wrote:
The original is fantastic. It's not overproduced, you have to understand the time it was written. It's the 80s which was more about taking listeners on a techno/synth sonic journey like The Cure, Depeche Mode. It's survived nearly 2 decades with decent radio play and still sounds great. Some parts, may seem outdated, but for the most part, the song has carried over pretty well. I like the Jules version as well, but is it going to be outdated in 5 years when people are tired of precious and minimalistic indy rock? The great thing about the original is that it's well aware of the lyrics' irony. The Jules version OTH, takes the lyrics completely seriously. Both are good, but TF version is the "correct" one since I've heard it first. It's like the people who say that Sean Connery will always be the best Bond ever. To understand it, you had to be there.
Can't say I agree with the context argument in this case. I was there in the 80's (teens and early 20's) so I do understand the time in which it was written. And I still prefer the Jules version. I also grew up with Connery as Bond and still prefer another.
Posted 17 years ago by Marr    [ Reply ]
I look like that kid on the cover listening to this inane cheese .
Posted 17 years ago by Lonestar    [ Reply ]
another vote for the Jules' version here
Posted 17 years ago by TeddiB    [ Reply ]
Wow, TFF has so many amazing songs. Seems like a waste to play this lame one.
Posted 17 years ago by ginger    [ Reply ]
Great Lyrics - Great Song!
Posted 17 years ago by K-BILLY    [ Reply ]
I love Tears for Fears!!! long live the 80's!!..
Posted 17 years ago by sixxstrings    [ Reply ]
UltraNurd wrote:
While I believe I've said before that I prefer the Jules cover, one of the many things I love about RP is that we can hear so many (very!) different versions of the same songs come up in the playlist.
I second your idea of the varied playlist. That said, I'll take the Jules version anytime anyone suggests this version.
Posted 17 years ago by okobojicat    [ Reply ]
original versions will always shine on.
Posted 17 years ago by harmaton    [ Reply ]
While I believe I've said before that I prefer the Jules cover, one of the many things I love about RP is that we can hear so many (very!) different versions of the same songs come up in the playlist.
Posted 17 years ago by UltraNurd    [ Reply ]
bleh
Posted 17 years ago by peyotecoyote    [ Reply ]
I was always a big TFF fan, but I have to admit, I also prefer the Jules version of this. The first time I heard it (Jules version), it just hit me like a ton of bricks.
Posted 17 years ago by wilcogirl11    [ Reply ]
The original is fantastic. It's not overproduced, you have to understand the time it was written. It's the 80s which was more about taking listeners on a techno/synth sonic journey like The Cure, Depeche Mode. It's survived nearly 2 decades with decent radio play and still sounds great. Some parts, may seem outdated, but for the most part, the song has carried over pretty well. I like the Jules version as well, but is it going to be outdated in 5 years when people are tired of precious and minimalistic indy rock? The great thing about the original is that it's well aware of the lyrics' irony. The Jules version OTH, takes the lyrics completely seriously. Both are good, but TF version is the "correct" one since I've heard it first. It's like the people who say that Sean Connery will always be the best Bond ever. To understand it, you had to be there.
Posted 18 years ago by savvysearch    [ Reply ]
67nj wrote:
OMG, love the animation... right up there with the one you made for Of Montreal's "Wraith"! I prefer Gary Jules' version of this song myself.
Posted 18 years ago by AmandaMaria    [ Reply ]
This version seems more manic than the Gary Jules version which seems depressed. I think the movie scene that this version would be great for is in American Beauty when the Annette Bening character is cleaning the house.
Posted 18 years ago by underarmor    [ Reply ]
Put me down as a fan of this, original, version. I think Gary Jules' cover is too self-important in a watch-me-suffer way.
Posted 18 years ago by jsjacob    [ Reply ]
Yeah, but you have to love the mad-sounding trumpet in there. Take yourself back to your taste in these years.....
Posted 18 years ago by stacadette    [ Reply ]
Posted 18 years ago by 67nj    [ Reply ]
I like both versions, but add me to the list of people who prefer the remake
Posted 18 years ago by PacificNWPariah    [ Reply ]
Heck - I like both! They are very different from each other, so it's getting 2 songs for 1! :) Patti M.
Posted 18 years ago by Patti    [ Reply ]
Roland: you're a genius!!!!!!!
Posted 18 years ago by David_Watts    [ Reply ]
artmarcia wrote:
WOW--I completely agree. The Gary Jules version is much more powerful--scary actually. This original version sounds so overproduced compared to it.
Me too
Posted 18 years ago by hippiechick    [ Reply ]
RBS76 wrote:
Yes, the Gary Jules version is much better. At least in my humble opinion... does liking the remake better than the original officially make me a bad person? EVIL!
I also agree. One of the very few times when I like some one's cover better than the original.
Posted 18 years ago by splooge    [ Reply ]
RBS76 wrote:
Yes, the Gary Jules version is much better. At least in my humble opinion... does liking the remake better than the original officially make me a bad person? EVIL!
WOW--I completely agree. The Gary Jules version is much more powerful--scary actually. This original version sounds so overproduced compared to it.
Posted 18 years ago by artmarcia    [ Reply ]
Brings back so many memories of dancing at the club, dressed all in black, asymetrical hair flopping over one eye, clove ciggies, skippy boys in plaid pants and boots with buckles, jumping around, load of angst...ah yes!
Posted 18 years ago by squidish    [ Reply ]
Steven_G wrote:
The Gary Jules version is listed on RP too - (click here). Click on the Amazon.com link there to hear a sample clip.
Yes, the Gary Jules version is much better. At least in my humble opinion... does liking the remake better than the original officially make me a bad person? EVIL!
Posted 18 years ago by RBS76    [ Reply ]
deepgaze wrote:
Kudos to Gary Jules for finding so much poigniancy in a song that is so lacking in the original version.
amen to that!
Posted 18 years ago by ploba    [ Reply ]
Top tune
Posted 18 years ago by Arthur_Two_Sheds    [ Reply ]
NoEnzLefttoSplit wrote:
Two songs which I kind of liked but never really listened to until they were covered. This one and Personal Jesus from DM. In both cases the original music just doesn't match the message of the lyrics. Rare examples where the cover is simply better. Period.
The Gary Jules version is listed on RP too - (click here). Click on the Amazon.com link there to hear a sample clip.
Posted 18 years ago by Steven_G    [ Reply ]
Two songs which I kind of liked but never really listened to until they were covered. This one and Personal Jesus from DM. In both cases the original music just doesn't match the message of the lyrics. Rare examples where the cover is simply better. Period.
Posted 18 years ago by NoEnzLefttoSplit    [ Reply ]
jlind wrote:
I don't know if its as much dated, as Gary Jules version is just down right creepy, which this song should have been in the first place.
That's what I'm talking about right there.
Posted 18 years ago by underarmor    [ Reply ]
like the t.f.f. sound of mid-eighties... sounds good!
Posted 18 years ago by exciter76    [ Reply ]
Kudos to Gary Jules for finding so much poigniancy in a song that is so lacking in the original version.
Posted 18 years ago by deepgaze    [ Reply ]
Mugro wrote:
I have to say that I now like the Gary Jules version better! The Tears for Fears original sounds dated in an 80s way....
I don't know if its as much dated, as Gary Jules version is just down right creepy, which this song should have been in the first place.
Posted 18 years ago by jlind    [ Reply ]
daveesh wrote:
what he said:
I like the way Mugro thinks. I have agreed with everything I have ever read by him (I think...maybe she) especially the "music defines your life so dont listen to crap" quote.
Posted 18 years ago by GChevy410    [ Reply ]
what he said: Mugro wrote:
I have to say that I now like the Gary Jules version better! The Tears for Fears original sounds dated in an 80s way....
Posted 18 years ago by daveesh    [ Reply ]
Simply put, Quality !
Posted 18 years ago by ManchesterUK    [ Reply ]
MUCH prefer Gary Jules' version!
Posted 18 years ago by Kagin    [ Reply ]
I love the gary jules version but this...well, it's the fuckin' original! long live the 80's!
Posted 18 years ago by mizgeee    [ Reply ]
I like the de-'80s-ed version also heard on RP.
Posted 18 years ago by UltraNurd    [ Reply ]
I remember 20 something years ago listening to this in a blacked out bedroom, stoned outta my mind, and thinking it was magic... still like it, but only like it.
Posted 18 years ago by Monkeysdad    [ Reply ]
Wow, I never actually cared for even the Gary Jules version, but hearing this again - I think I like Jules' work. Sorta like Shatner's cover of Common People...
Posted 18 years ago by ploafmaster    [ Reply ]
"oh, cool, remix..." Tobal does not know, -Tobal
Posted 18 years ago by TobalMoreno    [ Reply ]
How cool - just heard either this or the Gary Jules rendition of this song on CSI! The Gary Jules version is listed on RP too - (click here).
Posted 18 years ago by Steven_G    [ Reply ]
Boosiewolf wrote:
Yay! The REAL version!
Sorry but, according to some Amazon.com commentary, this album carries the World Remix version of the Tears for Fears song Mad World. You can (click here) to see all available items from the group on Amazon.com - including a few "best of," "ultimate collection," and "Millennium Collection" CDs which might include the original mix of this song. Tears for Fears is a great group that made music as fresh today as when first produced. Here is an interesting extract from AMG -
Tears for Fears were always more ambitious than the average synth pop group. From the beginning, the duo of Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith were tackling big subjects — their very name derived from Arthur Janov's primal scream therapy, and his theories were evident throughout their debut, The Hurting. Driven by catchy, infectious synth pop, The Hurting became a big hit in their native England, setting the stage for international stardom with their second album, 1985's Songs From the Big Chair.
Posted 18 years ago by Steven_G    [ Reply ]
Posted 18 years ago by pvcnote    [ Reply ]
Yay! The REAL version!
Posted 18 years ago by Alexandra    [ Reply ]
The link on Jules site does not work. Put Gary jules in to Pandora (https://www.pandora.com/) & you'll hear the track. It's amazing. I have to say I like it much more then the original. Either way Keep up the Great work RP.
Posted 19 years ago by omino23    [ Reply ]
Classic TfT. Excellent. The cover version?
Posted 19 years ago by GoldenBoy    [ Reply ]
I agree with most of the posts here. I'd definitely be okay with just the Gary Jules version being played here. I know that this is the original but this just seems like a tasteless parody of Jules'.
Posted 19 years ago by supremo    [ Reply ]
I have to agree with puppyscent... and I definately like the Jules version better. This is just to much in my head right now I think... feels like a whole lot clattering around in there.
Posted 19 years ago by besca    [ Reply ]
This is my childhood.
Posted 19 years ago by johnsolo    [ Reply ]
I like both garys version a well as this. But its funny how the music can change the entire mood of the same sad song :D still both tracks are great:)
Posted 19 years ago by NutsyUK    [ Reply ]
puppyscent wrote:
There's a slight nudge from dear nostalgia that encourages me to boost my rating to a 7. But then I just heard the Gary Jules version (see https://www.garyjules.com/v2/ ). Gary's version seemingly strips away the non-essentials of the original and lays it all out, beautifully bare. I might be in a particularly receptive mood for both versions, but Gary's version approaches such inspiring interpretations as Sting's solo "Message in a Bottle" or even Johnny Cash's version of NIN's "Hurt".
Agreed!!!
Posted 19 years ago by Kagin    [ Reply ]
There's a slight nudge from dear nostalgia that encourages me to boost my rating to a 7. But then I just heard the Gary Jules version (see https://www.garyjules.com/v2/ ). Gary's version seemingly strips away the non-essentials of the original and lays it all out, beautifully bare. I might be in a particularly receptive mood for both versions, but Gary's version approaches such inspiring interpretations as Sting's solo "Message in a Bottle" or even Johnny Cash's version of NIN's "Hurt".
Posted 19 years ago by puppyscent    [ Reply ]
Not only do I prefer the Gary Jules version, but had this TFF version come on near the conclusion of 'Donnie Darko' I'd have thrown the remote at the screen. Jules created a perfect distillation of the movie's tone. This is bordering on superficial bubblegum synthpop.
Posted 19 years ago by Roverfish    [ Reply ]
Mugro wrote:
I have to say that I now like the Gary Jules version better! The Tears for Fears original sounds dated in an 80s way....
Me, too! This sounds overproduced and even a little silly compared to the haunting Gary Jules version.
Posted 19 years ago by winter    [ Reply ]
i like the classic--electro feel that this song exudes. you can add any beat to it, and it would STILL sound cool.
Posted 19 years ago by paulinchicago    [ Reply ]
flandersdog wrote:
I agree. and the lyrics really do not lend themselves to a disco beat.
a disco beat?? Don't hear a disco beat at all... Listen to Gary Jules club remix and you'll hear a disco beat!
Posted 19 years ago by jean-louis    [ Reply ]
Mugro wrote:
I have to say that I now like the Gary Jules version better! The Tears for Fears original sounds dated in an 80s way....
I agree. and the lyrics really do not lend themselves to a disco beat.
Posted 19 years ago by flandersdog    [ Reply ]
Mugro wrote:
I have to say that I now like the Gary Jules version better! The Tears for Fears original sounds dated in an 80s way....
I agree!
Posted 19 years ago by Kagin    [ Reply ]
Mugro wrote:
I have to say that I now like the Gary Jules version better! The Tears for Fears original sounds dated in an 80s way....
agreed...in this version he's a little to upbeat when he tells us that about his dying dreams.
Posted 19 years ago by MooterWholesale    [ Reply ]
I have to say that I now like the Gary Jules version better! The Tears for Fears original sounds dated in an 80s way....
Posted 19 years ago by Mugro    [ Reply ]
radiojunkie wrote:
Who the heck is Gary Jules and how have I managed to never hear of him? It's a mad world!
Exactly! By Jove Watson....we must hunt this villan down!
Posted 19 years ago by Shesdifferent    [ Reply ]
oooohhhh it's just dripping with 80's earnestness, archness, lack of a sense of humor, crappy production, shitty drum machine. . oh I can't go on...
Posted 19 years ago by moshevelvul    [ Reply ]
Blecchh!! :-p Talk about ruining a good song.
Posted 19 years ago by Turbo    [ Reply ]
blech. Gary Jules' version only please.
Posted 19 years ago by baboo    [ Reply ]
hmm.. first time hearing this version. one more vote for the gary jules version, though this isn't bad. in other news.. tears for fears & hall and oates are touring together.. sept. 9th at wolftrap (nice outdoor venue in northern va). check out either artist's website for full dates.
Posted 19 years ago by Cornelia    [ Reply ]
OH my gosh--I like the Gary Jules version so much better--it's downright spooky. This has little feeling compared to Gary's. I know this is the original. I see reading the other posts, that I'm in good company. :)
Posted 19 years ago by artmarcia    [ Reply ]
Who the heck is Gary Jules and how have I managed to never hear of him? It's a mad world!
Posted 19 years ago by radiojunkie    [ Reply ]
...So, THIS is the original.... also nice. Prefer slower. An 8.
Posted 19 years ago by trekhead    [ Reply ]
oldslabsides wrote:
I must say I like Gary Jules' take on this much better - ...
Ditto. MT
Posted 19 years ago by mdtuley    [ Reply ]
manbirdexperiment wrote:
Check out Gary Jules' ballad-like version of this tune...
Yeah, it's a lot better, as it's not over-produced with synth intruments galore
Posted 20 years ago by BoFiS    [ Reply ]
Check out Gary Jules' ballad-like version of this tune...
Posted 20 years ago by Manbird    [ Reply ]
zaknafein wrote:
I do prefer this version. It has a lot more paranoia and angst. Great stuff.
:nodhead:
Posted 20 years ago by MTL_Robbie    [ Reply ]
Hey, I saw them on TV on one of those late-night shows, but it was both of them! When did they reunite? I remember an interview in one said the other just walked away one day, despite their long friendship.
Posted 20 years ago by resonator    [ Reply ]
resonator wrote:
Great song from a great CD.
I fully agree
Posted 20 years ago by Tux    [ Reply ]
redeyespy wrote:
Precisely. Not a bad place to be sometimes. If only it was'nt getting further and further away.
Posted 20 years ago by gilbo    [ Reply ]
I do prefer this version. It has a lot more paranoia and angst. Great stuff.
Posted 20 years ago by zaknafein    [ Reply ]
Great song from a great CD.
Posted 20 years ago by resonator    [ Reply ]
gilbo wrote:
Absolutely fantastic, but hten it remembers me of my youth.
Precisely. Not a bad place to be sometimes.
Posted 20 years ago by redeyespy    [ Reply ]
Absolutely fantastic, but hten it remembers me of my youth.
Posted 20 years ago by gilbo    [ Reply ]
Truth: A recording can always be improved by replacing any drum machine with a real drummer Corollary: Adding a drum machine where there was none before will always lessen the work.
Posted 20 years ago by ksb    [ Reply ]
I must say I like Gary Jules' take on this much better - the lyrics don't really lend themselves to a disco mix :headshake:
Posted 20 years ago by Red_Dragon    [ Reply ]
tears for fears conjures memories of lazy hazy summer days spent in backyard pools eating ecstacy like it was going out of style...
Posted 20 years ago by toppermustard    [ Reply ]
I heard Gary Jules' version first and then this. At first I liked GJ's better, but now I think the TFF has more stay power. Incredible song.
Posted 20 years ago by ArbiterOfGoodTaste    [ Reply ]
keep this one on rotation -even a segue - just so listeners can compare / comment Malc
Posted 20 years ago by Malc    [ Reply ]
Have you read the new interview with Tears for Fears in the most recent Q? They have a new album out, and are being interviewed more because of the Gary Jules cover. The interview is very scary, because it doesn't sound like they've recociled at all, and that Roland Orzabal is still pulling emotional crap on Curt Smith.
Posted 20 years ago by nufftin    [ Reply ]
I like the Gary Jules version, but after hearing it way too much on the car radio (that's the one with the broken CD player) it's really refreshing to hear the original again
Posted 20 years ago by srey    [ Reply ]
I like both versions. I love Tears for Fears. :sunny.gif:
Posted 20 years ago by soulspin    [ Reply ]
I love the feel of the Gary Jules' version so much more. Very melancholy.
Posted 20 years ago by pixidrizzl    [ Reply ]
I so much prefer this version to Gary Jules'!!
Posted 20 years ago by rumplestiltskin    [ Reply ]
Even the Tears for Fears guy who wrote the song says that Gary Jules' version is better.
Posted 20 years ago by Shimmer    [ Reply ]
Jules' cover is sooooooooo slow and downbeat as to taint my memory of the brilliance of this original. Let the cover be stricken from the record and this take its place.
Posted 20 years ago by camden_hampden    [ Reply ]
B-dub wrote:
:D :D
ditto
Posted 20 years ago by orpheus    [ Reply ]
I have to agree that Gary Jules' version is better.
Posted 20 years ago by Leslie    [ Reply ]
Play the Gary Jules version from Donnie Darko too.
Posted 20 years ago by twiggy    [ Reply ]
ghrup1 wrote:
Being too young to remember when this came out, I think I actually prefer Gary Jules' version from that Donny Darko movie. This is still good though.
Seconded!
Posted 21 years ago by BigCalm    [ Reply ]
rcurrier wrote:
It just sounds of its time. Not everything needs to sound like the current trends of the day.
I mean exactly that--it sounds of it's time... Geddy Lee wrote:
"If you listen to a piece of classical music it's a piece of music, but if you listen to a pop song from 1954 it sounds like a pop song from 1954. How much of the music that's being written today will be worth listening to in ten years, except for nostalgia?"
Posted 21 years ago by lindydallas    [ Reply ]
I think I am more fond of the cover also, although this is pretty cool too.
Posted 21 years ago by TheLoneIguana    [ Reply ]
Again, I love this song, but I think the Gary Jules version is better! Word.
Posted 21 years ago by mrmonkey    [ Reply ]
I'm almost ashamed to say it but, as much as I love this song, I like the Donnie Darko cover better... but what can I say, it's a very very mad world.... :nodhead: it's still a GREAT song though
Posted 21 years ago by BQHsMom    [ Reply ]
Donnie Darko
Posted 21 years ago by ankit    [ Reply ]
Originally Posted by lindydallas: .. this just sounds really dated; --d
It just sounds of its time. Not everything needs to sound like the current trends of the day. Just remember that the music you think is oh-so-cool today will sound really dated before long. Enjoy the variety. Heh, do I sound like an old fart or what?
Posted 21 years ago by rcurrier    [ Reply ]
The Gary Jules cover is a lot better... this just sounds really dated; --d
Posted 21 years ago by lindydallas    [ Reply ]
it\'s a mad, mad, mad, world. ain\'t it grand! and with some great music too!
Posted 21 years ago by KurtfromLaQuinta    [ Reply ]
OOOOHHHH!!! I missed it!!! My upload approved just today!!!!
Posted 21 years ago by newwavegurly    [ Reply ]
:roll:
Posted 21 years ago by Pipes    [ Reply ]
:D :D
Posted 21 years ago by B-dub    [ Reply ]
NICE!
Posted 21 years ago by gypsy222    [ Reply ]