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Dr. Hook – Sylvia’s Mother

Sylvia's Mother - Wikipedia

About the Song

Remember that catchy tune that often gets stuck in your head? The one about a persistent suitor trying to get in touch with his beloved? That’s “Sylvia’s Mother” by the iconic 70s rock band, Dr. Hook. Released in 1972, this song quickly became a worldwide sensation, captivating audiences with its simple yet evocative lyrics and infectious melody.

Written by the talented Shel Silverstein, known for his quirky and often humorous verses, “Sylvia’s Mother” tells the story of a young man deeply in love with a woman named Sylvia. Unfortunately, he’s unable to reach her directly and must rely on her mother to relay messages. Each time he calls, he’s met with a different excuse or update on Sylvia’s whereabouts, leaving him increasingly frustrated and longing for her company.

The song’s narrative is both relatable and endearing. Who hasn’t experienced the frustration of unrequited love or the longing to connect with someone special? The lyrics, while seemingly simple, evoke a deep sense of emotion and nostalgia. The repeated refrain of “Please Mrs. Avery, I just gotta talk to her” is both heartbreaking and humorous, perfectly capturing the desperation of the narrator.

Dr. Hook’s distinctive sound, characterized by their folksy rock style and Ray Sawyer’s raspy vocals, perfectly complements the song’s themes. The band’s ability to blend catchy melodies with heartfelt lyrics has made “Sylvia’s Mother” a timeless classic. The song’s popularity can be attributed to its universal appeal; it’s a song that resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds.

Beyond its commercial success, “Sylvia’s Mother” has also left a lasting cultural impact. The song has been featured in countless films, television shows, and commercials, further solidifying its place in popular culture. It’s a testament to the power of music to connect people and evoke emotions.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of Dr. Hook or simply appreciate a well-crafted pop song, “Sylvia’s Mother” is a must-listen. Its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and timeless appeal make it a song that will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.La madre de Silvia (Sylvia's Mother) by Dr. Hook and the Medicine Show (Single; CBS; 7929): Reviews, Ratings, Credits, Song list - Rate Your Music

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Lyrics: Sylvia’s Mother 

Sylvia’s mother says, ‘Sylvia’s busy
Too busy to come to the phone’
Sylvia’s mother says, ‘Sylvia’s tryin’
To start a new life of her own’
Sylvia’s mother says, ‘Sylvia’s happy
So why don’t you leave her alone?’And the operator says, ’40 cents more for the next 3 minutes’
Please Mrs. Avery, I just gotta talk to her
I’ll only keep her a while
Please Mrs. Avery, I just wanna tell ‘er goodbyeSylvia’s mother says, ‘Sylvia’s packin’
She’s gonna be leavin’ today’
Sylvia’s mother says, ‘Sylvia’s marryin’
A fella down Galveston way’
Sylvia’s mother says, ‘Please don’t say nothin’
To make her start cryin’ and stay’And the operator says, ’40 cents more for the next 3 minutes’
Please Mrs. Avery, I just gotta talk to her
I’ll only keep her a while
Please Mrs. Avery, I just wanna tell ‘er goodbyeSylvia’s mother says, ‘Sylvia’s hurryin’
She’s catchin’ the nine o’clock train’
Sylvia’s mother says, ‘Take your umbrella
Cause Sylvie, it’s startin’ to rain’
And Sylvia’s mother says, ‘Thank you for callin’
And, sir, won’t you call back again?’And the operator says, ’40 cents more for the next 3 minutes’
Please Mrs. Avery, I just gotta talk to her
I’ll only keep her a while
Please Mrs. Avery, I just wanna tell ‘er goodbyeTell her goodbye

Please
Tell her goodbye

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When people look back on Elvis Presley’s final years, they sometimes reduce his story to a single question about medication. But the truth is far more complex and far more human. Behind the headlines was a man living with significant health problems, chronic pain, exhaustion, and the relentless demands of a life that rarely allowed him to rest. Every night, millions expected Elvis Presley. Very few wondered how much it cost the man behind the name.

There are moments in life that no amount of success can protect us from, and for Elvis Presley, one of those moments came in October 1973. It was the day Lisa Marie left Graceland to begin living with her mother after Elvis and Priscilla’s marriage had come to an end. The world saw the headlines of a famous divorce. Elvis felt something far more personal. He was watching the little girl who had become the center of his world walk away from the home they had shared.

The first time Mac Davis saw Elvis Presley, he never forgot the feeling. Years later, the memory remained as vivid as if it had happened the day before. “He was the most beautiful man you ever saw,” Mac once said, but he was talking about far more than appearance. There was something impossible to explain about Elvis. When he entered a room, conversations faded, heads turned without thinking, and for a brief moment it seemed as though the entire world had quietly stopped to watch him breathe.

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