"Real a Lie" (also known as "Real, a Lie") is the second single from Auf der Maur's self-titled solo debut. The song failed to chart in the United States, however, due to a successful tour of the United Kingdom, it fared slightly better than "Followed the Waves" there, peaking at #33.
"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. The song was featured as the third track on the album.
A promotional music video was created for the single in 2004 and released on May 3, 2004. The video is compiled of photographs of Auf der Maur performing "Real a Lie" and was recorded in still motion.