With a distinctive voice and powerful songwriting, Carly Simon, an American singer-songwriter, rose to fame with hits like “You’re So Vain.“

She has earned Grammy Awards and an Academy Award for Best Original Song.

About the Song

“You’re So Vain” is one of Carly Simon’s most famous songs, known for its catchy tune and bold lyrics. It became an anthem of self-assurance and remains a classic.

You’re So Vain Lyrics by Carly Simon

Intro

Son of a gun

Verse 1

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

Pre-Chorus

And all the girls dreamed that they’d be your partner
They’d be your partner and

Chorus

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

Verse 2

You had me several years ago when I was still quite naive
Well, 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

Pre-Chorus

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

Chorus

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

Instrumental Break 

Guitar Solo

Pre-Chorus

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

Chorus

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

Verse 3

Well, I hear you went up to Saratoga
And your horse naturally won
Then you flew your Learjet 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

Pre-Chorus

You’re with some underworld spy or the wife of a close friend
Wife of a close friend and

Chorus

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

Outro

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
You probably think this song is about you

You’re So Vain (Live On The Queen Mary 2)

Similar Songs Like You’re So Vain

These songs all reflect Carly Simon’s unique style of blending unique lyrics with catchy melodies, making them similar to “You’re So Vain“ in tone and theme.

• “Coming Around Again” – Shares a similar introspective and emotional depth with “You’re So Vain.” Featured in the 1986 film Heartburn and became a hit single.

• “That’s The Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be” – Explores love and societal expectations, featuring Carly Simon’s signature storytelling style.

• “Anticipation” – Known for its catchy melody and lyrics reflecting the anticipation of a romantic encounter, blending emotional intensity and musical charm.

• “The Right Thing to Do” – From her album No Secrets, this song mixes folk and pop elements, similar to “You’re So Vain.”

• “Legend in Your Own Time” – Showcases Carly Simon’s ability to craft memorable melodies and lyrics exploring themes of identity and self-perception.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Story Behind the Song You’re So Vain?

“You’re So Vain” is rumored to be about a self-absorbed lover, with Carly Simon hinting at multiple inspirations but never confirming one person.

What Do Clouds in My Coffee Mean in the Song You’re So Vain?

“Clouds in my coffee” represents lost dreams and heartbreak

What is the Irony in the Song You’re So Vain?

The irony lies in the fact that the song critiques vanity yet became a massive hit, making Carly Simon’s own success a part of the vanity she critiques.