Introduction
“Pocket of a Clown” is a song written and performed by American country artist Dwight Yoakam. Released in June 1994, it served as the fifth and final single from his acclaimed album This Time. The track showcases Yoakam’s distinctive blend of traditional country sounds with contemporary influences, a hallmark of his musical style.
The song achieved moderate success on the charts, peaking at number 22 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks and reaching number 4 on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks.
Critics responded positively; Deborah Evans Price of Billboard described it as a “nicely produced and jumping shuffle tune,” noting that while it might not be Yoakam’s strongest song, it still stood “a few levels above much of what makes today’s playlists.”
The accompanying music video, directed by Gregory R. Alosio, received significant recognition, winning the Country Music Television Europe Music Video of the Year Award.
“Pocket of a Clown” exemplifies Yoakam’s ability to infuse traditional country music with a modern sensibility, contributing to his reputation as a pivotal figure in the genre during the 1990s.