Demo of “Joker James,” from 2011’s Quadrophenia – The Director’s Cut (Super Deluxe Edition) by Pete Townshend and The Who. Recorded in July 1972.

Lyrics:

Sally was a stamp collector, pretty little girl
One day she dated James, bringing love into her world
A tense romantic moment as they sat down on the couch
The whoopee cushion roared and I’m afraid it’s over now

Lucy was a cool one, always got her high
Then she dated James and true love took her higher
The jester had suggested a new way to get stoned
Put itching powder down her neck and now she’s all alone

Joker James, you did it again, caused somebody pain
You lived up to your name, didn’t you, Joker James

Jeannie practiced judo and didn’t like bad jokes
Jimmy took her out to dine and then home to meet her folks
The joke’s on Judo Jeannie, he knew he had no hope
But Mum and Dad he weaseled with hilarious blackface soap

He’s a Joker James, you did it again, caused somebody pain
(He’s a joker, he’s a joker)
You lived up to your name, didn’t you, he’s a Joker James

Sense of humor cannot woo her
You just threw another wheeze her way
Wizard pranks won’t get you thanks
You just threw another love away

Alice was a different kettle, always wore a smile
Her skin felt like a perfect petal, laughter all the while
Her sense of humor throws him, and deep in love he falls
But when he tries to sign the paper, the rubber pencil calls

Joker James, you’re not to blame
The joke’s on you and now you’re blue
It’s a shame but that’s the game
Joker James

He’s a Joker James, you did it again, caused somebody pain
(He’s a joker, he’s a joker)
You lived up to your name, didn’t you, he’s a Joker James

Complete Quadrophenia Demos playlist at:

I claim no copyright whatsoever, and all of the credit belongs to Pete, Keith, John, and Roger, their heirs, and anybody else who owns this music.