"Real a Lie" was one of the many songs written by Melissa Auf der Maur over a 12-year period from 1992 to 2004.

Originally titled "Realalie", the song was first performed by her original band, Tinker, which also included co-writer Steve Durand, and was released as the band's second single in 1994, which was backed with the b-side "Saxon Princess."

Auf der Maur later reworked the song during the recording sessions for Auf der Maur in 2003-4 featuring a layer Wall of sound of guitars and reworked lyrics.

A promotional music video was created for the single in 2004 and released on May 3, 2004.

[3] The video is compiled of photographs of Auf der Maur performing "Real a Lie" and was recorded in still motion.