About The Song

“Chain of Fools” was written by Don Covay, Aretha Franklin released “Chain of Fools” in 1967, which became a significant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Rhythm & Blues chart and number two on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. The song revolves around the theme of discovering infidelity in a relationship. It portrays the feelings of being manipulated and mistreated by a partner, who makes the protagonist feel like a fool.

Aretha Franklin’s soulful delivery and raw emotion vividly express the pain and frustration associated with realizing one’s partner’s unfaithfulness. While the song’s lyrics depict a woman standing up against an abusive relationship, there are different interpretations regarding its meaning, including the realization of being one among many in the partner’s “chain”.

Video

Lyrics

Chain, chain, chain
(Chain, chain, chain)
Chain, chain, chain
(Chain, chain, chain)
Chain, chain, chain
(Chain, chain, chain)
Chain of fools

For five long years
I thought you were my man
But I found out
I’m just a link in your chain

You got me where you want me
I ain’t nothin’ but your fool
Ya treated me mean
Oh you treated me cruel

Chain, chain, chain
(Chain, chain, chain)
Chain of fools

Every chain, has got a weak link
I might be weak yeah
But I’ll give you strength
Oh, hey

You told me to leave you alone
My father said, “Come on home”
My doctor said, “Take it easy”
Oh but your lovin’ is much too strong
I’m added to your

Chain, chain, chain
(Chain, chain, chain)
Chain, chain, chain
(Chain, chain, chain)
Chain, chain, chai-i-in
(Chain, chain, chain)
Chain of fools

One of these mornings
The chain is gonna break
But up until the day
I’m gonna take all I can take, oh hey

Chain, chain, chain
(Chain, chain, chain)
Chain, chain, chain
(Chain, chain, chain)
Chain, chain, chai-i-in
(Chain, chain, chain)
Chain of fools

Chain, chain, chai-i-in
Chain, chain, chain
Chain, chain, chai-i-in
Chain of fools