About the song
“Remember that summer of ’72 when a catchy tune seemed to be playing everywhere you turned? That was the year Dr. Hook & The Medicine Show burst onto the music scene with their infectious hit, ‘Sylvia’s Mother.’ This foot-tapping number wasn’t just a song; it was a narrative, a story that tugged at heartstrings and left a lasting impression.
Shel Silverstein, the brilliant mind behind the lyrics, had a knack for weaving tales that were both humorous and poignant. In ‘Sylvia’s Mother,’ he painted a vivid picture of a young man’s heartbreak and his attempts to reconcile with a lost love. The song’s genius lies in its simplicity; Silverstein managed to convey a complex emotion through a seemingly casual phone conversation.
The music itself is a delightful blend of country and rock, creating a sound that was both familiar and fresh. Dr. Hook’s signature harmonies and the band’s energetic performance brought Silverstein’s words to life in a way that resonated with audiences of all ages. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus made it an instant hit, but it was the heartfelt lyrics that truly set it apart.
‘Sylvia’s Mother’ is more than just a nostalgic throwback; it’s a timeless piece of music that continues to resonate with listeners today. The song’s themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships are as relevant now as they were in the 1970s. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Dr. Hook or simply appreciate a well-crafted pop song, ‘Sylvia’s Mother’ is a must-listen.
So, the next time you find yourself feeling a little nostalgic, put on ‘Sylvia’s Mother’ and let the music transport you back to a simpler time. You’ll be humming along in no time.”
Video
Lyrics
Sylvia’s mother said Sylvia’s busy
Too busy to come to the phone
Sylvia’s mother said Sylvia’s trying to start a new life of her own
Sylvia’s mother said Sylvia’s happy
So why don’t you leave her alone?
And the operator said 40 cents more for the next three minutes
Please, Mrs. Avery, I just gotta talk to her
I’ll only keep her a while
Please, Mrs. Avery, I just want to tell her goodbye
Sylvia’s mother said Sylvia’s packing
She’s gonna be leaving today
Sylvia’s mother said Sylvia’s marrying a fella down Galveston way
Sylvia’s mother said Sylvia’s happy
So why don’t you leave her alone?
And the operator said 40 cents more for the next three minutes
Please, Mrs. Avery, I just gotta talk to her
I’ll only keep her a while
Please, Mrs. Avery, I just want to tell her goodbye
Sylvia’s mother said Sylvia’s hurrying
She’s catching the nine o’clock train
Sylvia’s mother said, “Take your umbrella ’cause Sylvia, it’s starting to rain
And Sylvia’s mother said, “Thank you for calling, and, sir, won’t you call back again?”
And the operator said 40 cents more for the next three minutes
Please, Mrs. Avery, I just gotta talk to her
I’ll only keep her a while
Please, Mrs. Avery, I just want to tell her goodbye
Tell her goodbye
Tell her goodbye
Tell her goodbye
Please, tell her goodbye