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Jim Croce – Operator (That’s Not the Way It Feels)

Jim Croce Caricature

About the Song

Jim Croce’s “Operator (That’s Not the Way It Feels)” is a poignant ballad that explores themes of heartbreak, longing, and the complexities of relationships. Released in 1972, the song quickly became a hit, showcasing Croce’s talent for writing relatable and emotionally charged music.

The song tells the story of a man who is struggling to come to terms with the end of a relationship. He calls his ex-girlfriend’s phone number, hoping to connect with her, but instead, he is greeted by the operator who informs him that the number has been disconnected. The man then proceeds to leave a message on her voicemail, expressing his regrets and longing for her return.

Croce’s vocals are filled with raw emotion, conveying the pain and sorrow of the narrator. The melody is simple yet haunting, perfectly capturing the song’s melancholic tone. The lyrics are both honest and poetic, resonating with anyone who has ever experienced the heartache of a broken relationship.

“Operator (That’s Not the Way It Feels)” is a timeless classic that continues to touch hearts and minds today. It is a testament to Jim Croce’s enduring legacy as a songwriter and performer, and a reminder of the power of music to express the deepest emotions of the human heart.

Jim Croce, Five Others Die in Plane Crash

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Lyrics: Operator (That’s Not the Way It Feels)

Operator, well could you help me place this call
See, the number on the match book is old and faded
She’s living in L.A
With my best old ex-friend Ray
A guy she said she knew well and sometimes hatedBut isn’t that the way they say it goes
Well let’s forget all that
And give me the number if you can find it
So I can call just to tell ’em I’m fine, and to show
I’ve overcome the blow
I’ve learned to take it well
I only wish my words
Could just convince myself
That it just wasn’t real
But that’s not the way it feelsOperator, well could you help me place this call
‘Cause I can’t read the number that you just gave me
There’s something in my eyes
You know it happens every time
I think about the love that I thought would save meBut isn’t that the way they say it goes
Well let’s forget all that
And give me the number if you can find it
So I can call just to tell ’em I’m fine, and to show
I’ve overcome the blow
I’ve learned to take it well
I only wish my words
Could just convince myself
That it just wasn’t real
But that’s not the way it feels
No, no, no, no
That’s not the way it feelsOperator, well let’s forget about this call
There’s no one there I really wanted to talk to
Thank you for your time
Ah, you’ve been so much more than kind
You can keep the dime

But isn’t that the way they say it goes
Well let’s forget all that
And give me the number if you can find it
So I can call just to tell ’em I’m fine, and to show
I’ve overcome the blow
I’ve learned to take it well
I only wish my words
Could just convince myself
That it just wasn’t real
But that’s not the way it feels

 

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In June 1977, Elvis Presley walked onto the stage for what would become the final concert ever captured on film. No one in the audience realized they were witnessing the last chapter of one of the greatest careers in music history.

In 2026, fans will experience Elvis Presley in a way that feels remarkably real. Rare concert footage has been restored with stunning clarity, allowing audiences to see the King almost exactly as fans did decades ago.

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