The Meaning Behind The Song: When Sly Calls (Dont Touch That Phone) by Michael Franks

As a musician, I always find myself drawn to songs that have a deeper meaning or tell a story. One such song that has captivated me is “When Sly Calls (Don’t Touch That Phone)” by Michael Franks. I first heard this song on a lazy summer afternoon, and from the very first listen, I was hooked by its unique sound and thought-provoking lyrics.

“When Sly Calls” takes the listener on a journey through a series of emotions and experiences. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone answering the phone when a person named Sly calls. Each time Sly calls, it seems like something significant happens. The profit speaks, secrets are leaked, and the dice are tossed.

The song suggests that when Sly calls, things in the world change. The sky falls, and with it, a sense of uncertainty and unpredictability engulfs the narrator. The war may be won, but the battle is lost. It’s fascinating how Franks uses these metaphors to describe the impact that Sly’s calls have on his life.

In the chorus, Franks warns against answering the phone, urging the listener with the words, “Don’t touch that phone.” It’s clear that he wants to escape from the effect Sly’s calls have on him. Franks cleverly suggests that he is not physically present but rather magnetized on tape, reinforcing his desire to distance himself from the chaos caused by Sly’s calls.

The imagery in the lyrics is incredibly vivid, as Franks describes flying south to Côte d’Azur for snorkeling and sleep. It’s as if he wants to escape to a tranquil place far away from the disruptions caused by Sly’s calls. The mention of Leon spinning a record on the box adds an element of nostalgia, as if Franks is seeking solace in familiar music during these turbulent moments.

The song’s title, “When Sly Calls (Don’t Touch That Phone),” reflects the cautionary tone throughout the lyrics. It implies that answering the call brings about consequences and the need to retreat and shut out the world. The lyrics highlight the conflicting emotions the narrator experiences when faced with Sly’s calls – a mix of intrigue, fear, and the desire to maintain distance.

Michael Franks’ “When Sly Calls” is a thought-provoking song with intricate lyrics that leave room for interpretation. It resonates with me on a personal level, as I often find myself seeking solace in music during chaotic times. We all have our own versions of Sly, those disruptive elements in our lives, and this song reminds us to take a step back and protect our peace of mind.

Whether you interpret the song’s meaning as a metaphor for personal relationships, societal disruptions, or even artistic inspirations, “When Sly Calls” is a testament to the power of music to capture complex emotions and transport the listener to a different state of mind.

Album title: Passionfruit (1983)

Credits:
Sampled In: “Free Incoming” by Charles Hamilton

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