"I Was Only Joking" is a song written by Gary Grainger and Rod Stewart released by Stewart in 1978 as the third single on his 1977 album, Foot Loose & Fancy Free. The song performed well, reaching the Top 40 in various countries, including the United Kingdom (No. 5) and the United States (No. 22). In the UK, "I Was Only Joking" charted as part of a double A-side with "Hot Legs".

Reception

Billboard said that Stewart is in "top form interpreting insightful lyrics over a rhythmic, semi-acoustic rock foundation," and Billboard also praised the string and mandolin playing. Cash Box called the song "a gentle ballad about growing and learning" and called the guitar playing "clean." Record World called it "perhaps the most thoughtful song" from "Foot Loose and Fancy Free."

Chart performance

Weekly charts

Year-end charts