Lupe Fiasco announced the name of the single at the Fiasco Friday protest on October 15, 2010. On that day,
Lyor Cohen came down to play the single for the protest turned celebrating fan base situated outside Atlantic Records. In a
NovaFM interview, he gave an analysis of the first verse. He went on to say, "For them it was 'why is he talking about the record label, but it's still a great song. For me, I was like 'No, that's my therapy... To give you this song... Now you have to make it a worldwide smash. You have to play it on the radio... So every time you hear it, you're going to hear me talking about your ass." On February 28, 2011, what the
Complex magazine published an interview with Lupe that detailed the background behind the single. In an interview with
The Adelaide Tribune, Lupe expanded further on his feelings toward the record. Writing credits are given to Lupe Fiasco,
Isaac Brock, Dustin Brower, Jonathon Brown,
Dann Gallucci,
Eric Judy and to producer
Kane Beatz. The song was released on Lupe Fiasco's website on October 26 for download. This marked the first officially planned released single from
Lasers ("
Shining Down" and "
I'm Beamin" were leaks re-released as street singles). "The Show Goes On" appeared on the iTunes Music Store on November 9. ==Music video==