[2] With music inspired by "An American Trilogy" by Elvis Presley, the lyrics are intended to uplift people who are marginalized by society.
"[2] The Joke was widely acclaimed by music critics, with major praise going for its melody and the subject matter in its lyrics.
Magazine American Songwriter called the track's intensity "mind-blowing", and dubbed it "a true masterpiece".
[3] NPR lauded the single as "A country-rock aria dedicated to the delicate boys and striving girls born into — and, Carlile insists, destined to triumph over — this divisive time.
[5] Said Slant, "The song's chorus explodes with catharsis, big emotions that are earned by Carlile's storytelling but driven home by the cinematic arrangement.
A live recording, featuring “The Joke”, was filmed at Radio City Music Hall on September 29, 2019 and released by Netflix on May 20, 2020.
The deluxe version of Platt’s debut album was released on the same day and includes his live cover of “The Joke”.